Any experienced bread makers out there? (Question about yeast)

Question

I am making some apple cinnamon bread and the recipe calls for two packets of yeast.It is my understanding that yeast multiplies itself by through consumption of sugar, so my question is:Can I use a single packet of yeast with a bit of extra sugar and just let it proof longer before making the dough? Instead of using two packets? Or is there another purpose behind using more yeast?

timonoko · Accepted Answer

Because I am cheap, I tried to invent a method to use fraction of a packet. Warm water and plenty sugar in a small cup and let it grow on its own. When there is foamy layer on top it is ready. But the method was not foolproof. Often happened that I had to warm up the dough and add rest of the packet anyways. Somebody more educated should study what needs to be done, like adding milk or salt perhaps. Or maybe just controlling the temperature: https://github.com/timonoko/Wifi-temp-sensor#readme

netman21 · Answer

You certainly can. Yeast multiplies fast.That said, using excess yeast can actually reduce gluten formation so using extra yeast in pizza dough, for instance, is a way to make the dough less springy.