How to Convert Yeast from Grams to Teaspoons
A 7 g packet of yeast equals 2¼ teaspoons. Convert active dry, instant and fresh yeast from grams to teaspoons and tablespoons, and scale bread recipes up or down.
A 7 gram (g) packet of yeast equals 2¼ teaspoons (tsp). One teaspoon of active dry yeast or instant yeast weighs 3.1 g. One gram of yeast equals 0.32 tsp.
Yeast manufacturers, including Fleischmann’s and Red Star, fill each packet with 7 g (¼ oz) of yeast and label the packet as 2¼ tsp.
How to Convert Yeast from Grams to Teaspoons
To convert yeast from grams to teaspoons, divide the grams by 3.1. This value applies to active dry yeast and instant yeast.
| Yeast (g) | Teaspoons | Tablespoons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 g | 0.32 tsp (⅓ tsp) | 0.11 tbsp |
| 2 g | 0.65 tsp (⅔ tsp) | 0.22 tbsp |
| 3 g | 0.97 tsp (1 tsp) | 0.32 tbsp |
| 5 g | 1.61 tsp (1⅔ tsp) | 0.54 tbsp |
| 7 g | 2.25 tsp (2¼ tsp) | 0.75 tbsp |
| 10 g | 3.23 tsp | 1.08 tbsp |
| 14 g | 4.50 tsp | 1.50 tbsp |
| 21 g | 6.75 tsp | 2.25 tbsp |
The yeast calculator uses a loose-spooned density of 0.68 grams per milliliter (g/mL), or 3.35 g per tsp. The calculator shows 7 g as 2.1 tsp. Packet labels show 2¼ tsp, since yeast settles in the packet.
How Many Teaspoons Is 5 Grams of Yeast?
5 grams of yeast is 1⅔ teaspoons (1.61 tsp). Measure 1½ tsp plus a level ⅛ tsp.
How Many Grams Is 1 Tablespoon of Yeast?
1 tablespoon (tbsp) of yeast is 9.3 grams (0.33 oz). One US tablespoon equals 3 tsp (14.79 mL).
How Do Active Dry, Instant and Fresh Yeast Compare?
There are 3 main types of baker’s yeast, and each type converts differently:
| Yeast type | 1 tsp weight | Swap for 7 g active dry |
|---|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | 3.1 g | 7 g (2¼ tsp) |
| Instant yeast (rapid-rise) | 3.1 g | 5.3–7 g (1¾–2¼ tsp) |
| Fresh yeast (cake yeast) | Not spooned | 17–21 g (0.6–0.75 oz) |
- Active dry yeast needs proofing in 105–110°F (40–43°C) water for 5–10 minutes.
- Instant yeast goes straight into the flour. Use 25% less instant yeast than active dry yeast for long, slow rises.
- Fresh yeast is crumbled by weight. Use 2.5–3 times the weight of active dry yeast.
How to Scale Yeast in Bread Recipes
To scale yeast in bread recipes, keep the yeast at 1–2% of the flour weight. Standard sandwich bread uses 7 g of yeast per 500 g (17.6 oz) of flour, which is 1.4%.
| Flour | Yeast (1.4%) | Teaspoons |
|---|---|---|
| 250 g (2 cups) | 3.5 g | 1⅛ tsp |
| 500 g (4 cups) | 7 g | 2¼ tsp |
| 750 g (6 cups) | 10.5 g | 3⅜ tsp |
| 1,000 g (8 cups) | 14 g | 4½ tsp |
Halve the yeast for an overnight rise in the refrigerator at 38–40°F (3–4°C). Cold dough rises for 12–18 hours with 0.5–0.7% yeast.
What Happens with Too Much or Too Little Yeast?
Too much yeast causes 3 problems: a strong beer smell, a fast rise that collapses and large uneven holes. Too little yeast causes a dense loaf and a rise time over 3 hours.
How to Measure Yeast Without a Scale
To measure yeast without a scale, follow 4 steps:
- Stir the yeast in the jar to loosen settled granules.
- Scoop the measuring spoon into the yeast.
- Level the spoon with a straight edge.
- Store opened yeast in the refrigerator for 4 months or the freezer for 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teaspoons is 7 grams of yeast?
7 grams of yeast is 2¼ teaspoons, the amount in 1 standard packet.
How many teaspoons is 1 gram of yeast?
1 gram of yeast is 0.32 teaspoons, about ⅓ tsp.
Is instant yeast the same as active dry yeast in teaspoons?
Yes, instant yeast and active dry yeast weigh the same per teaspoon (3.1 g). Instant yeast works 25% faster, so some recipes use less.
Can I use a teaspoon instead of a 7 g packet?
Yes, 2¼ level teaspoons replace one 7 g packet of yeast.
See the main grams to teaspoons guide for other baking ingredients.