Word: Yeast Cake
Definition: A yeast cake is a small cake made from yeast, which is a type of tiny fungus used in baking. Yeast helps the dough rise and become fluffy. In this context, "yeast cake" can also refer to a cake that uses yeast as a leavening agent rather than baking powder or baking soda.
Usage Instructions: - Yeast cakes are often used in baking recipes. You can use them to make sweet or savory dishes. - When using yeast cakes, it’s important to activate the yeast properly, usually by mixing it with warm water and sugar before adding it to the other ingredients.
Example: "I made a delicious yeast cake for breakfast, and it was light and fluffy with a hint of cinnamon."
Advanced Usage: In advanced baking, yeast cakes can be used in more complex recipes, such as brioche or cinnamon rolls, where the yeast allows the dough to rise significantly, creating a soft texture.
Word Variants: - Yeast (noun): The living organism used in baking. - Yeast dough (noun): The mixture of yeast, flour, water, and other ingredients before it is baked. - Yeasted (adjective): Referring to something made with yeast.
Different Meaning: "Yeast" can also refer to the microorganism itself that helps in fermentation, not just in cakes but also in brewing beer and making bread.
Synonyms: - Leaven (noun): A substance that helps dough rise. - Sponge cake (in some contexts, but typically sponge cake is made with eggs, not yeast).
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:While there aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "yeast cake," you might hear phrases like: - "Rise to the occasion": This means to perform well in a challenging situation, similar to how dough rises with yeast. - "Baking up a storm": This means to bake a lot of things, which could include yeast cakes.