If you are unsure aout the freshness of your yeast, use the following test to determine its activity.

Using a one-cup liquid measuring cup, dissolve 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar in 1/2 cup warm tap water at 110 to 115 degrees. Using a thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the correct liquid temperature. Any thermometer will work as long as it measures temperatures between 75 and 130 degrees.

If you don't have a thermometer, the tap water should be warm but NOT hot to the touch.

Stir in one 1/4 oz. packet or 2-1/4 teaspoons of dry yeast until there are no more dry yeast granules on top.

Yeast should be at room temperaure before using. In three to four minutes, the yeast will have absorbed enough liquid to activate and start to rise.

After 10 mintes, the foamy yeast mixture should have risen to the 1 cup mark and have a rounded top.