Are you new to baking with yeast? Do you want to make delicious homemade breads and pastries without the fuss and complexity of traditional yeast recipes? Look no further! Active dry yeast is a great place to start, as it’s easy to work with and can produce amazing results. In this article, we’ll share 18 easy active dry yeast recipes for beginners that will help you get started on your baking journey.
From classic homemade white bread to soft whole wheat sandwich loaves, crusty artisan sourdough breads to fluffy dinner rolls, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for something simple and quick or a bit more complex and adventurous, our recipes are designed to be easy to follow and fun to make.
So, let’s get started and see what amazing things you can create with active dry yeast!
Classic Homemade White Bread
This timeless recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and deliciously fragrant white bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking. With only a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh homemade bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Perfectly Fluffy Dinner Rolls
Perfectly Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe
Elevate your mealtime with these soft and tender dinner rolls that are sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying warm, aromatic bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough, divide into 8-10 pieces, and shape each into a ball.
7. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple No-Knead Rustic Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously crusty and chewy bread with minimal effort required. Perfect for beginners or those short on time, this no-knead method allows you to create a rustic loaf without the need for extensive mixing or shaping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flours, salt, and yeast.
2. Add water and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Dust a baking sheet or Dutch oven with cornmeal.
6. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or in the preheated Dutch oven.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Soft Whole Wheat Sandwich Loaf
A moist and flavorful sandwich loaf that’s perfect for everyday use or as a base for creative sandwiches. This recipe uses whole wheat flour to provide a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crusty Artisan Sourdough Bread
Create a rustic, crusty loaf with this simple recipe using your own sourdough starter. This artisan bread is perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and 1 cup of flour. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 4-5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Golden Brioche Buns
These golden brioche buns are a masterclass in texture and flavor. With a simple combination of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with soft, flaky, and buttery treats perfect for snacking or sandwiching.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Pour in melted butter and beaten egg. Mix until a smooth batter is achieved.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until elastic and smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles, rectangles).
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously aromatic and flavorful focaccia bread infused with the savory goodness of garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or used to make sandwiches, this garlic herb focaccia is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and yeast. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness. Dimple the surface with fingers.
6. Mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the dough.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the bread.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. These soft, gooey, and utterly delicious cinnamon rolls are surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mix of equal parts sugar and cinnamon)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon sugar to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Spread with melted butter, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up tightly, starting from one end. Cut into 12-15 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Soft Pretzels with Mustard Dip
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with this classic combination of soft, buttery pretzels and tangy mustard dip. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
– Mustard Dip ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into long ropes.
4. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix mustard dip ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve warm pretzels with mustard dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Easy Pizza Dough from Scratch
Make delicious homemade pizza dough with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe yields a soft, flavorful crust that’s perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into desired pizza form.
8. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
This mouthwatering pull-apart bread is infused with the rich flavors of melted cheese and savory garlic, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of French bread dough
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the bread dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Spread the butter-garlic mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Honey Oat Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a dessert topping. The combination of rolled oats, honey, and warm spices creates a cozy and inviting aroma that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup honey, warmed
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Olive Oil Rosemary Bread
This classic bread recipe combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the richness of olive oil, resulting in a deliciously aromatic and savory loaf perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add chopped rosemary leaves and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add water as needed to form a smooth, elastic dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes shiny and develops a slight sheen.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheddar Jalapeño Bread
Elevate your bread game with this easy recipe that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the bold heat of jalapeños. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro (if using), and jalapeños. Mix until well combined.
4. Crack in the egg and stir until the dough forms.
5. Knead on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
6. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick French Baguettes
Enjoy a delicious homemade baguette with this simple recipe that yields a crispy crust and soft interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Gently shape the dough into a long, thin baguette. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Nut Bread with Yeast
This moist and flavorful banana bread is elevated by the use of yeast, giving it a unique depth of flavor and tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Italian Easter Bread
Celebrate Easter with a sweet and savory twist on traditional bread. This recipe fills tender, golden-crusted Italian Easter Bread with a delicious mixture of cheese, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spread Parmesan cheese mixture (see below) over half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Parmesan Cheese Mixture:
Mix together Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and sugar in a small bowl.
Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Bread
This moist and aromatic bread is perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy breakfast treat. Made with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness, this recipe yields a deliciously fluffy loaf that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Start baking with confidence using these easy active dry yeast recipes! From classic homemade white bread to crusty artisan sourdough, and from soft whole wheat sandwich loaves to cheesy garlic pull-apart bread, this collection has something for every beginner baker. With simple instructions and minimal ingredients, you’ll be whipping up delicious treats in no time. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these 18 recipes are sure to inspire your baking adventures. So go ahead, get started, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your home!