What to do when yeast killed in bread dough?

Possible Causes:

- Water temperature was too high when added to the yeast packet.

- Insufficiently proofing the yeast.

- Not enough sugar in the recipe for the yeast to feed.

- Too much salt was added to the recipe.

- Using old yeast.

Solutions:

1. Proof the yeast before using it.

- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the warm water (between 105-115°F) and sugar.

- Sprinkle the yeast over the water, lightly stir and set in a warm place for 5 minutes.

- Bubbles should form on top of the mixture, and it will become frothy. If the yeast does not foam after 5 minutes, it is dead and should be discarded.

2. Check expiration date: Use the freshest yeast possible.

3. Follow the recipe: Ensure you’ve added the correct amount of salt, sugar, and yeast to the recipe. Too much of any of these ingredients can affect the yeast’s activity.

4. Check if the dough was refrigerated. If the dough was left in the fridge for an extended period (beyond 2 hours), the yeast may have died and will need to be replaced.

5. Discard and start again: If you suspect that the yeast is dead and has killed the bread dough, it’s best to discard it and start again with fresh ingredients and a new packet of active dry yeast.