Sprinkling Yeast
Fill a 1-cup liquid measure with 1/4 cup lukewarm (105° to 115°) water. Sprinkle the water with 1 package active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar or flour.
Checking Yeast
After about 5 minutes, the yeast granules will be soft and, if the yeast is active, the surface of the water will be covered with a thick layer of buff-colored foam.