Ingredients

　　

Expired

Step 1

Old yeast won’t get your bread to rise. If in doubt, check the expiration date on the package, and, if you’re still unsure, “proof” it by adding a little to warm water with 1/2 teaspoon sugar. If it bubbles, it’s still good.

　　

Have one kind, need another

Step 2

One package (2 1/4 teaspoons) of dry yeast is equal to a 0.6-ounce cake of compressed (fresh) yeast. This is true for either active dry yeast or rapid-rise yeast. Active dry and rapid-rise can also be substituted for each other, although the latter does not need to be dissolved or proofed as the former does. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients.

　　Cooks' Note

　　See also bread and rolls, dough doesn't rise

　　How to Repair Food, Third Edition