Yeast is an essential component to a variety of baked goods, including pretzels. But on your trip to the grocery store, you may notice that there are many different options for yeast. Many people believe they’re all the same, but this is not the case. Here, we go through the different yeast options so you know which one to choose for your homemade pretzels!
Active Dry Yeast
Active dry yeast is the most common type of yeast to use in recipes. It’s made by removing water from live yeast and then grounding it up into fine granules. Active dry yeast can be added directly to bread dough without you having to proof it, despite common misconceptions.
Instant Yeast
Another common type of yeast is instant yeast. This type of yeast is ground up finer than active dry yeast, so it dissolves more quickly into the dough. You can also add it directly to your dough without having to proof it. Instant yeast is very similar to active dry yeast which is why the two are often used interchangeably.
RapidRise Yeast
If you’re baking something that needs to rise once and quickly, then RapidRise yeast is the way to go. It is similar to instant yeast, but it gives you one strong rise. As such, it’s not recommended for slow rise recipes or recipes that require two rises.
Fresh Yeast
Finally, there’s fresh yeast. This yeast is different from all the rest because it comes in a solid block. It doesn’t last long as the other types of yeast (at most a week in your fridge), but many bakers swear by it due to its robust flavor.
All of the above types of yeast can be used for pretzels. However, the type you choose will depend on your baking style and their convenience. Fresh yeast may work, but due to its short shelf-life you may opt for active dry yeast instead.
However, if you’re looking to satisfy your craving for pretzels but don’t want to make them yourself, Uncle Henry Pretzel Bakery has you covered. Look through our online shop to order our handmade pretzels today!
