What You Need to Know
During fermentation, yeast cells convert fermentable sugars into carbon dioxide and trace amounts of ethanol. The CO₂ gas forms bubbles that expand the dough matrix, while ethanol evaporates during baking, contributing to flavor. Optimal yeast activity occurs around 27.5 °C; temperatures above 38 °C reduce viability and those below 10 °C slow fermentation.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Fermentation of sugars by baker’s yeast producing CO₂ and ethanol