Is Fresh Yeast Suitable for Your Bread Machine?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh yeast in a bread machine. While fresh yeast, also known as cake yeast or compressed yeast, may require a few adjustments compared to dry active yeast, it is a favorite among many bakers for its superior flavor and performance.
Understanding Fresh Yeast
Fresh yeast, often termed as cake yeast or compressed yeast, comes in a small cake or block that needs to be crumbled before use. Unlike dry yeast, it is more perishable and requires refrigeration, which adds a bit of extra care to the baking process. However, this doesn’t mean it’s any less effective. Many bakers prefer fresh yeast because of its rich, spontaneous flavor and its ability to achieve a better rise, leading to a fluffier texture in their breads.
Making the Switch From Dry to Fresh Yeast
When using fresh yeast in your bread machine, adjustments might be necessary. A general rule of thumb is to use about half the amount of fresh yeast as you would of dry yeast. For instance, if your recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of dry yeast, you would use 1 teaspoon of fresh yeast.
In addition to adjusting the yeast quantity, you should also dissolve the fresh yeast in some of the warm liquid from the recipe before adding it to the other ingredients. This helps activate and evenly distribute the yeast through the dough. Another important tip is to slightly reduce the amount of salt in the recipe. Excess salt can inhibit the rising ability of fresh yeast.
Optimal Conditions for Fresh Yeast
It’s crucial to ensure that the liquid temperature does not exceed about 27°C (80°F) to prevent the live yeast from being compromised. Once the other ingredients are measured and prepared according to your recipe, gently disintegrate the fresh yeast on top of the dry ingredients before proceeding with the bread machine settings. It’s important to follow the usual kneading, rising, and baking cycles, as these settings are specifically designed for fresh yeast.
Alternative Quantities for Fresh Yeast
If a recipe calls for active dry yeast or instant yeast and you wish to use fresh yeast, remember to double the quantity of yeast you would be using. New yeast, favored by business cooks, is otherwise known as cake or live yeast. This yeast requires refrigeration until use and has a limited timeframe of practical usability compared to dried yeast. It’s easier to fall into the habit of always using dried yeast, but for those looking for a richer flavor and better rise, fresh yeast is a fantastic alternative.
To disintegrate the fresh yeast, break it into three pieces to make 20 grams or 2/3 of an ounce. For each 1 liter or 4 cups of flour, use one piece of the disintegrated yeast. Measure the liquid required in your recipe and use a thermometer to ensure that it is at a comfortable 27°C (80°F) to activate the yeast. Finally, add all the ingredients in the sequence required by your bread machine, ensuring that the yeast is added last.
Setting your bread machine to the regular settings should ensure a perfect outcome. Avoid using express or delayed cycle settings as these might not accommodate the wetter dough resulting from fresh yeast.
To sum up, whether you're a home baker or a professional chef, using fresh yeast in your bread machine can significantly enhance the taste and texture of your baked goods. So embrace this variation in yeast types and welcome a world of differences into your kitchen!