I've been reading so many conflicting opinions on yeasts for the machines.  Some say there's no difference, and that the dry active is interchangable with the instant.  Others seem to disagree and suggest we need to keep both on hand.

Anyone here have any opinions on this?

Anne

Try the SAF instant yeast; If you cannot get it locally; order on line from King Arthur flour.

I bake bread all the time; we rarely eat store bought. But I've found bread comes out better if you just do dough cycle in the machine; then bake in a regular oven. Do second rise either in a loaf pan, rolls, or some other shape. When ready, bake in a 375 oven for 20-30 minutes depending on size of loaf. If you want a crispy crust, put several ice cubes in the oven on a baking sheet. This creates steam which helps form a great crust.

Thanks Deeder!!

I had ordered the active dry, but since I need lots more stuff, the instant is next on my list. 

I wound up tossing an entire batch of dough yesterday, a) because I think I got the sugar measurement wrong, and more because b), I made the mistake of turning off the machine when the "add" beep came on.  It was all my own error, and if I'd been sure of how to continue in the oven, I would have saved that batch too, so your advice is greatly appreciated.  I'm seriously considering doing some in the oven too.

Thanks for the help, and welcome to our little group.  Since I'm brand new to machine baking, and Steve is just thinking of maybe getting a machine, I'm really greatful to have someone with some expertise here.

Anne

I buy the BIG packet of yeast at BJ's, and keep it in the freezer.  I use the big packet to refill a smaller jar I keep in the refrigerator.  Depending on the recipe, and how long the rise is going to be, I can use more or less yeast.  If I am doing an overnight rise, I only need about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon yeast.  I'll post my overnight-rise bread.

[edited December-18-2007]

SaF Instant is the best.  Used it for over 12 years in my Breadman Machine.

I buy my yeast in bulk. I get it from Gordon Foods. They sell it in large quantities there, and it is cheap. I keep it in the freezer and just use what I need for my bread straight out of the freezer. It works great and lasts forever. I have never had yeast not rise my bread yet. Will last for a couple years or more that way.

I also buy my yeast at gordons along with my brown sugar an sugar.
I never used king aurthor flour i have always used gold medal..
i also put my yeast in the frigde.. it last forever.
i also put my flour in the freezer to i buy that in 25 lb bags. i go thru at least 3 a season.