Breadmaker, breadmaker, make me some bread

[beowabbit]

Well, my second loaf in the new breadmaker turned out the same way the first one did: flat, dense, and really hard around the edges (although fairly yummy in the middle). Also, the flour didn't get all mixed in along one end. Hmmm. Wonder if the box of Assorted Bread Mixes I got got too hot or too cold at some point and the yeast isn't quite happy.

Comments

[hawkegirl.livejournal.com]

Sounds like yeast failure to me. I know I found using my own yeast, that I kept refridgerated seemed to have made that problem stop. I think the yeast that comes with breads often has been too heated and the like in the shipping process, or perhaps extends its shelf life. Assuming you're doing the thing of keeping the yeast on the top and what not, but you seem the type to follow instructions. :> So try using your own yeast instead (available at any supermarket).

[dje.livejournal.com]

My recollection from when our breadmaker used to work is that

(1) the yeast you can buy in little bottles, usually in the refrigerated section of the supermarket, works great
(2) someone with more experience then me said it was important that the water you add to the mix be about 75 degrees for optimal results

Good luck! :-)

[angelovernh.livejournal.com]

well, you could try proofing the yeast and see if it is working or not. Add some water - about 115-125 (about 1/4-1/2 cup) and stir it. let it sit and see if it bubbles and kinda foams in 5-10 mins. If it does, it's fine. If it does not, get a jar from the grocery store and use that instead.