How to Proof Yeast

*Be sure to check out all of Kelly’s Kitchen Tips.

Have you heard that you need to “proof” the yeast, but have no idea why?  Well, I did too and I thought I’d find out why you do it and how.

Why do you proof yeast?
The reason you proof yeast is to make sure it is active before you make a recipe.  This way you know it will do what it is supposed to do…rise the dough, before wasting your time and ingredients. Yeast is a living organism, so you need to keep it in the freezer to keep it fresh.  Always let it come to room temperature and never microwave it.  This will kill it. Remember it is a living organism.

How to Proof Yeast
All you do to proof yeast is take your warm water and sugar quantities (already in your recipe) and mix it with the yeast in the packets (active yeast).  After a few minutes it should look creamy and foamy, like the picture here.  Then, proceed with instructions to combine ingredients.  I hope this helps.