Best Substitutes for Yeast (Active Dry or Instant)
Active dry and instant yeast can substitute for each other directly, and sourdough starter can replace both.
Best overall swap
Instant yeast ↔ active dry yeast
1:1 (skip proofing for instant)Interchangeable in most recipes — instant yeast can go straight into dry ingredients without blooming in water first.
All Substitutes for Yeast (Active Dry or Instant)
Instant yeast ↔ active dry yeast
1:1 (skip proofing for instant)Interchangeable in most recipes — instant yeast can go straight into dry ingredients without blooming in water first.
Sourdough starter
1 cup active starter per 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) yeastReduce other liquid and flour in the recipe by about 1/2 cup each to balance; expect a longer, slower rise.
Baking powder (for quick breads only)
1 tsp baking powder per 1 cup flourNot a real yeast substitute — only works if you’re willing to turn a yeasted recipe into a quick bread with no rise time.