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Bread baking is an art form that brings joy to both the baker and those lucky enough to enjoy the delicious results.
One key ingredient that plays a crucial role in bread making is active dry yeast.
With its ability to leaven dough and create airy, fluffy loaves, active dry yeast is a staple in many bread recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of bread recipes that showcase the versatility and magic of active dry yeast, from classic loaves to flavorful twists.
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15+ Bread Recipes With Active Dry Yeast to Try Today
Classic Homemade White Bread
This classic white bread recipe yields a soft and fluffy loaf with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and delicious flavor, making this recipe a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter and yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this classic homemade white bread is a comforting staple that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy it fresh from the oven with your favorite toppings or use it to make delicious sandwiches.
Soft and Fluffy Whole Wheat Bread
This whole wheat bread recipe combines the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour with the lightness of white flour for a soft and fluffy loaf that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise, resulting in a bread that’s perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Add the softened butter and yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, this soft and fluffy whole wheat bread offers a wholesome option that’s perfect for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet.
Enjoy it toasted with butter or jam for a delicious breakfast treat.
Rustic Italian Ciabatta Bread
Transport yourself to Italy with this rustic ciabatta bread recipe.
With its crisp crust and airy interior, this bread is perfect for dipping in olive oil, making sandwiches, or serving alongside your favorite Italian dishes.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise, resulting in a beautifully textured loaf.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Add the olive oil and yeast mixture.
- Mix until a sticky dough forms, then transfer to a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Once doubled, transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently shape it into a rectangle.
- Cut the dough into two or three pieces and gently stretch each piece into a rustic shape.
- Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
With its rustic appearance and delicious flavor, this homemade ciabatta bread is a versatile option that’s perfect for any meal.
Enjoy it fresh from the oven with your favorite Italian dishes or use it to make gourmet sandwiches for a satisfying lunch.
Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Indulge your sweet tooth with this irresistible cinnamon swirl bread.
Using active dry yeast ensures a light and fluffy texture, while the cinnamon swirl adds a burst of warmth and flavor.
Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and flour. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of sugar and cinnamon. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly.
- Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side. Place the rolled dough seam side down in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its swirls of cinnamon sugar and soft, pillowy texture, this sweet cinnamon swirl bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Enjoy it toasted with a smear of butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Herbed Garlic Breadsticks
Elevate your meal with these savory herbed garlic breadsticks.
Using active dry yeast ensures a light and airy texture, while a blend of herbs and garlic adds irresistible flavor.
Perfect for serving alongside pasta dishes or soups, these breadsticks are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches long.
- Place the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and dried herbs.
- Brush the risen breadsticks with the garlic herb mixture and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
With their flavorful blend of herbs and garlic and light, airy texture, these herbed garlic breadsticks are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Enjoy them warm from the oven as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Soft and Chewy Pretzels
Treat yourself to homemade soft and chewy pretzels with this easy recipe.
Using active dry yeast ensures a tender texture, while a quick dip in a baking soda bath gives the pretzels their signature golden crust.
Perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dips, these pretzels are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel shape and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Working in batches, carefully dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for about 30 seconds, then return them to the baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse sea salt.
- Bake the pretzels for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter before serving.
With their soft, chewy texture and delicious buttery flavor, these homemade pretzels are a fun and satisfying treat for any occasion.
Enjoy them warm from the oven with your favorite dips or sauces for a tasty snack.
Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Spice up your baking routine with this flavorful jalapeño cheddar bread.
The combination of spicy jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese creates a bread that’s perfect for serving as a side dish or making gourmet sandwiches.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and soft texture, making this bread a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter.
- Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its bold flavors and soft, cheesy texture, this jalapeño cheddar bread is a delicious twist on traditional white bread.
Enjoy it warm from the oven as a side dish or use it to make gourmet sandwiches for a tasty meal.
Honey Oat Bread
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of honey and oats in this hearty bread recipe.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and soft texture, while the addition of honey adds a touch of sweetness.
Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this bread pairs beautifully with butter or jam.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, bread flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its wholesome ingredients and sweet honey flavor, this honey oat bread is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Enjoy it toasted with butter or jam for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Mediterranean Olive Bread
Transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean with this flavorful olive bread.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and soft texture, while the addition of olives adds a burst of briny flavor.
Perfect for serving alongside salads or as a snack, this bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pitted olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in the chopped olives until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its savory olive flavor and soft, chewy texture, this Mediterranean olive bread is a delicious addition to any meal.
Enjoy it warm from the oven as a side dish or use it to make gourmet sandwiches for a tasty lunch.
Rustic Rye Bread
Dive into the rich, earthy flavors of this rustic rye bread. Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and hearty texture, while the addition of caraway seeds adds a subtle, aromatic twist.
Perfect for pairing with soups or sandwiches, this bread is a comforting choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 1/2 cups rye flour
- 1 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and molasses. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, bread flour, salt, and caraway seeds. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
With its robust flavor and hearty texture, this rustic rye bread is a satisfying choice for bread lovers.
Enjoy it toasted with butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Soft and Chewy Dinner Rolls
Impress your dinner guests with these soft and chewy dinner rolls.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and tender texture, while a touch of honey adds a hint of sweetness.
Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or holiday meals, these rolls are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, bread flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen rolls with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
With their soft, pillowy texture and golden crust, these dinner rolls are a delicious addition to any meal.
Enjoy them warm from the oven with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Focaccia
Transport yourself to the sunny Mediterranean with this flavorful sun-dried tomato and basil focaccia.
Using active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise and airy texture, while the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adds a burst of vibrant flavor.
Perfect for serving as an appetizer or alongside pasta dishes, this focaccia is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press it out to form a rectangle or circle.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Using your fingers, make dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and coarse sea salt.
- Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
With its vibrant flavors and soft, airy texture, this sun-dried tomato and basil focaccia is a delightful addition to any meal.
Enjoy it warm from the oven as an appetizer or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.
Conclusion
With their versatility and magic, active dry yeast opens up a world of possibilities in bread baking. Whether you prefer classic loaves, sweet treats, or savory creations, there’s a bread recipe for everyone to enjoy.
So roll up your sleeves, dust off your apron, and get ready to elevate your baking with these delicious bread recipes using active dry yeast.
Happy baking!