How to Make Yeast For Bread: Never Run Out Again!

Last Updated on June 1, 2024 by Veronica Sparks

Baking bread is a cooking from scratch art that has been perfected over centuries. At the heart of this delicious craft lies a small yet mighty ingredient: yeast. If you’ve ever found yourself in a pinch without yeast, you know how frustrating it can be. But what if we told you that you could make your own yeast at home? Let’s walk through the steps for how to make yeast for bread so you never run out again!

What is Yeast?

Yeast is a microscopic fungus that plays a critical role in baking. It ferments the sugars present in the dough, producing carbon dioxide and ethanol. This process is what causes the dough to rise, giving bread its light, airy texture.

There are various types of yeast used in baking, including active dry yeast, instant yeast, and fresh yeast. Each type has its own properties and uses, but they all share the common goal of helping bread rise and develop its unique flavor.

Related Article: Sourdough Bread 101: How to Make Your Own Sourdough Starter and Get a Delicious Loaf

How to Make Yeast For Bread

Creating your own yeast from scratch might sound intimidating, but it’s a straightforward process that requires just two ingredients: flour and water. Here’s how you can do it!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

• Flour: Whole wheat flour is ideal because it contains more nutrients that yeast can feed on.
• Water: Use filtered, un-chlorinated water. Chlorine can inhibit yeast growth.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. Day 1: In a clean glass jar, combine 1/2 cup of flour and 1/2 cup of water. Stir until well mixed, cover loosely with a cloth, and leave at room temperature.
2. Day 2: Add another 1/2 cup of flour and 1/2 cup of water to the jar. Stir, cover loosely, and let it sit.
3. Days 3-5: Continue this process for 3 to 5 days, or until you notice bubbles forming and a pleasant, yeasty smell. This indicates that wild yeast and bacteria are thriving in your mixture.

Step 3: Establishing Your Yeast Starter

By day 5, your mixture should be bubbly and active. This is now your yeast starter, which can be used in bread recipes in place of commercial yeast.

How to Feed Your Homemade Yeast

Maintaining a healthy yeast starter requires regular feeding to keep it active and potent. Here’s how to do it:

1. Remove a Portion: Discard about half of your starter to make room for fresh flour and water.
2. Feed the Starter: Add equal parts flour and water (e.g., 1/2 cup each). Stir well and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before returning it to the fridge.
3. Regular Schedule: Feed your starter every 1-2 weeks if kept in the fridge. If you bake frequently, you can keep it at room temperature and feed it daily.

Related Article: How to Make Homemade Flour

How to Use Your Homemade Yeast When Baking

Using your homemade yeast starter in homemade bread recipes is easy. However, the ratio differs from using commercial yeast. Here’s a general guideline:

• Substitution Ratio: 1 cup of homemade yeast starter can replace one packet of commercial yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons).
• Adjusting the Recipe: You may need to adjust the flour and liquid in your recipe to account for the starter’s consistency.

To use, mix your starter with the other ingredients, and proceed with your recipe as usual. Remember, homemade yeast might take a bit longer to rise than commercial yeast, so be patient!

How to Store Homemade Yeast

When storing homemade yeast, you can keep it at room temperature if you plan to use it frequently, feeding it daily to maintain its activity. However, for longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate your yeast starter.

In the fridge, the fermentation process slows down, allowing you to feed it every 1-2 weeks instead of daily. This makes it more convenient for less frequent baking while ensuring your yeast remains healthy and active.

How to Dry Homemade Yeast

Drying your homemade yeast can extend its shelf life and make it easier to store. Here’s how to do it!

Step 1: Prepare Your Yeast

Ensure your yeast starter is active and bubbly before you begin.

Step 2: Spread and Dry

1. Spread: Spread a thin layer of your starter on a piece of parchment paper.
2. Dry: Let it air dry for 1-2 days, or use a dehydrator set to a low temperature (below 100°F) to speed up the process.

Step 3: Store the Dried Yeast

Once completely dry, break it into small pieces and store in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place. Dried yeast can last for several months.

Step 4: Reactivating Dried Yeast

To use dried yeast, rehydrate it in warm water for a few minutes before adding it to your dough. This ensures the yeast becomes active again and is ready to ferment the dough. Note that this step is typically included in homemade bread recipes that call for active dry yeast.

Ready to Get Yeast-ing?

Making your own yeast at home is a rewarding process that ensures you’ll never run out again. By following these steps, you can create, maintain, and store your yeast, giving you the freedom to bake delicious bread anytime.

With just flour, water, and a bit of patience, you’ll have a continuous supply of yeast ready to bring your baking to life. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread with homemade yeast and take pride in mastering this essential baking skill!