How Much Yeast Is In A Packet?
Before you start baking, you need to know how much yeast is in an envelope.
Working with yeast is a nightmare for some home bakers. There are a few common pitfalls, such as using old yeast or accidentally killing it with hot water. But once you understand how yeast works, there's nothing to fear.
Another key step is measuring yeast properly, and if your recipe simply calls to use a packet of yeast, you might wonder what that means. Is there a standard packet size? How much does that equal in teaspoons?
Here, we'll explain how much each yeast is in a packet. Plus, get tips on how to measure and store dry yeast.
How Much Yeast Is in a Packet?
Dry yeast, whether active dry or instant, is commonly sold in packets, usually in sets of three. Each envelope contains about 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast, which is 7 grams or 1/4 ounce by weight. Some recipes will simply instruct you to use 1 packet of yeast, while others will call for a specific volume or weight, which is why it’s important to know how much each standard envelope contains.
Yeast is also often sold in 4-ounce jars, which is equal to 16 packets. If you don’t bake with yeast often, our recommendation is to purchase packets, as yeast doesn’t last forever (which we get into below).
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How To Measure Yeast
Using the proper amount of yeast, i.e. what’s stated in the recipe, is crucial for achieving the right rise. Use level teaspoons to measure yeast from the packet, or even better, use a scale to measure the yeast extra accurately by weight.
Depending on the recipe, you might be required to measure fairly tiny amounts, which some baking scales can't do. (Jewelry scales are great for measuring small amounts of yeast and other ingredients.)
How many teaspoons are in a packet of yeast?
One packet of yeast contains about 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast. That is 7 grams or 1/4 ounce by weight.
How To Store Yeast Packets
It’s important that dry yeast isn’t exposed to heat during storage. You can store yeast at room temperature in your pantry alongside other baking supplies, but you can also ensure the product stays cool by storing it in the fridge or freezer.
Red Star Yeast recommends that if you are storing in the fridge or freezer, you allow the yeast packet to come to room temperature before using, which means pulling it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you’re ready to start baking.
Once a packet of yeast is open, push out as much air as possible (oxygen, like heat, will shorten its lifespan), fold over the packet, and secure it closed with a clip or tape. Keep open yeast packets in the fridge or freezer, and use within four weeks.
It's also important to keep yeast dry when storing, as exposure to moisture can contribute to the decline in yeast quality.
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How Long Do Yeast Packets Last?
Yeast packets last about two years, if unopened. This doesn’t mean two years from when you purchased it, but two years from when it was packaged, which is what the "use-by dates" on the packets indicate. Of course, if stored improperly, your yeast might be unusable before then.
That's why it’s always a good idea to double check that the yeast you have is still good before baking. This is called proofing the yeast, and many recipes build this step into the instructions so you can be extra sure that your dough will rise. It simply requires dissolving the yeast in warm water with a little sugar to see if it foams, indicating the yeast is activated. (It's worth noting that instant yeast doesn't require proofing.)
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