If you’re new to the world of baking, one of the trickiest things to get right is bread. However, it’s also one of the most rewarding items you can make.
There’s really nothing better in the world than having the scent of a freshly baked loaf course through your kitchen on a warm summer’s day.
One of the most common issues that people run into when they first start baking, is how much yeast to use.
The most fundamental item when it comes to a host of different breads and pastries, yeast is responsible for making your food items rise properly.
Some recipes will ask for one packet, but you’re unsure whether your packet is the same size as the one used in the recipe.
If this is the case, then chances are that you’d like to measure out how much yeast is in there. One of the best ways to do this is by using teaspoons.
To find out how many teaspoons are in a pack of yeast, as well as some other important information, simply keep reading below, as we take a closer look.
What Is Yeast And Why Is It Important?
Now, before we dive straight in and answer the question at hand, first of all, we’d like to discuss what yeast really is, as well as why it’s so important for your baked goods.
Yeast is essentially a single cell organism. This may sound strange, but it’s technically considered to be a form of fungus. Many of the recipes you’ve read will ask you to mix in your sachet of yeast with a bit of warm water.
The reason why you need to do this is because it allows the yeast to activate, and will essentially ferment the air bubbles, and will subsequently allow your bread to rise properly.
Purchasing your yeast in packets can be super beneficial, as it will stop moisture from getting to your yeast, and spoiling it before you have the opportunity to use it.
How Many Teaspoons Of Yeast Are In A Packet?
Now that we’ve covered what yeast is, as well as why it’s such an integral component of baking, we can move on to the titular question. Just how many teaspoons are in one single packet of yeast?
Well, in a typical sachet of yeast that you’d purchase from the supermarket, you would get approximately 2 ¼ teaspoons, which is not quite enough to make one whole tablespoon.
If you measure this in terms of weight, then you will get approximately 7 grams in one packet of yeast.
Can You Substitute Different Yeast Brands?
Many of you reading this article will come across recipes that use a particular brand of yeast, which they’ve gone ahead and listed in their ‘ingredients’ section.
Perhaps however, you weren’t able to get your hands on that particular brand, or you’re somebody who lives in the UK and you’re following an American recipe that doesn’t stock that brand.
If so, then you’re probably wondering if you can substitute one yeast brand for another. The simple answer to this question is yes, any packet of yeast will work fine as a substitute for another.
We would, however, recommend that you check the weight listed for each of these different brands of yeast, so that you know you’re using the correct amount.
Some of you might also be wondering if you can substitute instant yeast for active dry. The answer to this question is yes, both of these can also be used interchangeably.
The thing to note however, is that instant yeast will take a far shorter amount of time to rise.
Just follow the instructions according to the packet and you’ll be good to go.
How Long Does Yeast Last?
Perhaps some of you reading this article have had some sachets of yeast stored away in the back of the cupboard for ages, and you’re only now deciding that you want to use it.
If this is the case, then you’re probably wondering just how long yeast tends to last, and whether or not yours will have gone bad. Surprisingly, unopened packets of dry yeast can actually last for up to five years if stored in the refrigerator.
If it has not been stored in the refrigerator, however, then we would simply recommend checking the ‘use by’ date on the box, to see if it will still be okay to use.
Although it’s not necessarily harmful to use yeast that has expired, it could affect the quality of your baked goods, and certain items might not rise properly as they should.
You can also freeze yeast if need be. Yeast can be frozen for approximately 6 months. Make sure that it’s sealed and stored within an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, there are approximately 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast in one single packet. This equates to approximately 7 grams.
Yeast is an integral component when it comes to baking, and is responsible for allowing your items to rise properly.
If you purchase a box of yeast, we would recommend that you store it within the refrigerator. Yeast which is stored in a refrigerator can last for up to five years.
