Can Bread Machine Yeast Be Substituted For Instant Yeast? The Answer Might Surprise You!

Bread machine yeast and instant yeast are two commonly used types of yeast for baking. While they both produce the same result—a light and airy loaf of bread—there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between bread machine yeast and instant yeast, and answer the question: can bread machine yeast be substituted for instant yeast?

What is Bread Machine Yeast?

Bread machine yeast is a type of yeast that is specifically designed for use in bread machines. It is a dry yeast that is sold in small packets, and it is typically added to the bread machine along with the other ingredients. Bread machine yeast is a slow-acting yeast, which means that it takes longer to activate than other types of yeast. This makes it ideal for use in bread machines, as it allows the dough to rise slowly and evenly.

What is Instant Yeast?

Instant yeast is a type of yeast that is also known as rapid-rise yeast or quick-rise yeast. It is a dry yeast that is sold in small packets, and it is typically added to the dough along with the other ingredients. Instant yeast is a fast-acting yeast, which means that it activates quickly and produces a rapid rise in the dough. This makes it ideal for use in recipes that require a quick rise, such as pizza dough or cinnamon rolls.

Can Bread Machine Yeast Be Substituted for Instant Yeast?

The answer is yes, bread machine yeast can be substituted for instant yeast in most recipes. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when making this substitution.

• Use more bread machine yeast than instant yeast. Bread machine yeast is a slower-acting yeast than instant yeast, so you will need to use more of it to achieve the same result. A good rule of thumb is to use 1.5 teaspoons of bread machine yeast for every 1 teaspoon of instant yeast.
• Dissolve the bread machine yeast in warm water before adding it to the dough. This will help to activate the yeast and ensure that it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Allow the dough to rise for a longer period of time. Bread machine yeast takes longer to activate and rise than instant yeast, so you will need to allow the dough to rise for a longer period of time. A good rule of thumb is to allow the dough to rise for 1.5 to 2 times the amount of time that you would normally allow it to rise with instant yeast.

When to Use Bread Machine Yeast vs. Instant Yeast

Bread machine yeast and instant yeast can both be used to make a variety of baked goods. However, there are some instances where one type of yeast is better suited than the other.

• Use bread machine yeast for recipes that require a slow rise. This includes recipes for breads that are dense and chewy, such as sourdough bread or whole wheat bread.
• Use instant yeast for recipes that require a quick rise. This includes recipes for breads that are light and airy, such as white bread or pizza dough.

Additional Tips for Using Bread Machine Yeast

• Make sure that the bread machine yeast is fresh. Bread machine yeast has a limited shelf life, so it is important to check the expiration date before using it.
• Store the bread machine yeast in a cool, dry place. This will help to extend its shelf life.
• Follow the recipe instructions carefully. Each recipe will have specific instructions for how to use bread machine yeast. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that the bread turns out correctly.

Troubleshooting Bread Machine Yeast

If you are having trouble getting your bread machine yeast to work, there are a few things that you can try.

• Make sure that the water is warm enough. The water should be between 105 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast. If the water is too cold, the yeast will not activate.
• Make sure that the bread machine is set to the correct setting. Most bread machines have a specific setting for bread machine yeast. Be sure to select this setting before starting the machine.
• Allow the dough to rise for a long enough period of time. Bread machine yeast takes longer to activate and rise than instant yeast. Be sure to allow the dough to rise for 1.5 to 2 times the amount of time that you would normally allow it to rise with instant yeast.

The End

That’s all there is to it! With a little bit of know-how, you can easily substitute bread machine yeast for instant yeast in your favorite recipes. So next time you’re in a pinch, don’t be afraid to reach for the bread machine yeast.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can bread machine yeast be used to make pizza dough?

A: Yes, bread machine yeast can be used to make pizza dough. However, it is important to note that bread machine yeast is a slower-acting yeast than instant yeast. This means that you will need to allow the dough to rise for a longer period of time. A good rule of thumb is to allow the dough to rise for 1.5 to 2 times the amount of time that you would normally allow it to rise with instant yeast.

Q: Can bread machine yeast be used to make sourdough bread?

A: Yes, bread machine yeast can be used to make sourdough bread. However, it is important to note that bread machine yeast is a slower-acting yeast than sourdough starter. This means that you will need to allow the dough to rise for a much longer period of time. A good rule of thumb is to allow the dough to rise for 8 to 12 hours.

Q: Can bread machine yeast be used to make beer?

A: No, bread machine yeast cannot be used to make beer. Beer is made using a different type of yeast called brewer‘s yeast. Bread machine yeast is not suitable for brewing beer.