These Homemade English Muffins are a breakfast game-changer! With their delightful nooks and crannies, they offer an incredible texture that’s perfect for holding onto butter, jam, or any topping you desire. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy Sunday morning or serving them at a brunch gathering, these muffins will impress everyone. Plus, they’re preservative-free and packed with flavor, making it easy to say goodbye to store-bought versions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sourdough starter and honey creates a unique taste that elevates your breakfast experience.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making this recipe convenient.
- Customizable Size: Make either small or large muffins according to your preference; the choice is yours!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare a batch and freeze them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Healthier Option: Free from preservatives and artificial additives found in many store-bought options.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing homemade English muffins requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Rolling pin
- Circle cutter or round glass
- Baking sheet
- Griddle or pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without spilling.
- Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when kneading the dough; however, it’s not necessary if you prefer to knead by hand.
- Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out the dough for uniform muffins.
- Griddle or pan: Provides even heat distribution while cooking, resulting in perfectly golden muffins.
Ingredients
These sensational homemade sourdough English muffins are crafted with an abundance of nooks and crannies, making store-bought versions pale in comparison. Preservative-free with an irresistible taste, you’ll find yourself head over heels, never wanting to go back to boring and dry store-bought versions.
For the Dough
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, unbleached (up to 2 cups)
For Dusting
- Cornmeal for dusting griddle (or semolina or farina)
How to Make Homemade English Muffins
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, milk, honey, and flour until well mixed.
Step 2: Allow to Ferment
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight. This step usually takes about 8 to 10 hours depending on how active your starter is.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
The next day or after about 8 hours, sprinkle the baking soda and salt over your mixture. Then add 1 cup of the remaining flour into the bowl.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough until smooth—about 5 minutes with a stand mixer or up to 10 minutes by hand. If it feels too sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 5: Resting Period
Let the dough rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. After resting, roll it out until it’s about half an inch thick.
Step 6: Cut Circles
Using a circle cutter or round glass that is approximately 3-4 inches in diameter, cut out circles from the rolled-out dough. Place these circles on a baking sheet lightly greased with cornmeal.
Step 7: Reroll Scraps
You can reroll any scraps of dough to get up to about 18 smaller English muffins. Alternatively, divide the dough into nine pieces for larger muffins.
Step 8: Let Rise
Cover the muffins lightly with oiled plastic wrap and let them rise for about one hour in a warm place.
Step 9: Cook on Griddle
Once risen, cook them on a preheated griddle at around 325℉ for about 5-6 minutes per side. If using a pan, covering it helps maintain heat during cooking.
Enjoy your delicious homemade English muffins fresh off the griddle!
How to Serve Homemade English Muffins
Homemade English muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. Whether you prefer sweet or savory toppings, these muffins are perfect for any time of day.
Sweet Toppings
- Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of butter followed by your favorite jam for a classic treat.
- Honey and Cinnamon: Drizzle honey over a toasted muffin and sprinkle with cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Nut Butter and Banana: Slather on almond or peanut butter and top with banana slices for a filling snack.
Savory Options
- Avocado Toast: Mash ripe avocado on a toasted muffin, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a healthy option.
- Egg and Cheese: Top with a fried or poached egg and cheese for an indulgent breakfast sandwich.
- Smoked Salmon: Layer smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers for an elegant brunch dish.
Breakfast Sandwiches
- Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: Create a hearty breakfast sandwich with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and your choice of cheese.
- Veggie Delight: Fill with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers topped with feta cheese for a vegetarian delight.
How to Perfect Homemade English Muffins
To ensure your homemade English muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Active Starter: Always check that your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it in the recipe.
- Proper Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise fully; this ensures fluffy muffins with plenty of nooks and crannies.
- Temperature Control: Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning while allowing the insides to cook through properly.
- Dusting Flour: Use cornmeal or semolina on the griddle to prevent sticking and add texture to the outside of the muffins.
- Don’t Skip Kneading: Kneading develops gluten which contributes to the structure of the muffins; aim for smooth dough.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade English Muffins
Pair your delicious homemade English muffins with these delightful side dishes that complement their flavor perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts beautifully.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch alongside your soft muffins.
- Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses that pairs well with both sweet and savory muffin toppings.
- Greens Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can balance out richer muffin toppings.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with seeds, nuts, or fruits makes for an excellent side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making homemade English muffins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring the starter’s activity: If your sourdough starter isn’t active enough, your muffins may not rise properly. Always check that it has been fed and is bubbly before using it.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or other ingredients can slow down the dough activation. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
- Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the dough to rest can lead to dense muffins. Make sure you give it enough time to rise and develop flavor.
- Overbaking on the griddle: Cooking muffins too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and flip them once they are golden brown.
- Not dusting with cornmeal: Failing to use cornmeal on the griddle can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Dust generously for easier flipping and better texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store homemade English muffins in an airtight container.
- They can last in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing Homemade English Muffins
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 months.
Reheating Homemade English Muffins
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds on high, but avoid overcooking as this can make them tough.
- Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about homemade English muffins that might help you perfect your baking skills.
How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?
Check for bubbles and a pleasant smell. If it has doubled in size within a few hours after feeding, it’s ready to use.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for homemade English muffins?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well! However, using bread flour may yield a slightly chewier texture.
How can I customize my homemade English muffins?
Feel free to add mix-ins like herbs, cheese, or spices to create different flavors according to your taste preference!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Add small amounts of flour gradually until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to overdo it!
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for better structure.
Final Thoughts
Homemade English muffins offer endless possibilities and delightful flavors that store-bought versions can’t match. Their incredible texture filled with nooks and crannies makes every bite satisfying. You can easily customize these muffins with various toppings or mix-ins, ensuring they fit any meal or craving. Give this recipe a try—you’ll enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Homemade English Muffins
Homemade English Muffins are a delightful addition to your breakfast routine, offering a perfect combination of texture and flavor. With their signature nooks and crannies, these muffins are ideal for holding butter, jam, or your favorite toppings. Easy to make from scratch and free from preservatives, they elevate any morning meal or brunch gathering. Whether you enjoy them toasted with a hint of honey or piled high with avocado and egg for a savory treat, homemade English muffins will impress everyone at the table. Say goodbye to store-bought versions and indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of fresh muffins right from your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Cornmeal for dusting
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, milk, honey, and flour until mixed.
- Cover and let ferment at room temperature for about 8–10 hours.
- Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture; add one cup of remaining flour.
- Knead until smooth (5 minutes with a mixer or 10 minutes by hand), adding more flour if sticky.
- Rest the dough for 10–15 minutes; then roll out to half an inch thick.
- Cut circles using a cutter; place on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour.
- Cook on a preheated griddle at 325°F for about 5–6 minutes per side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (60g)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: <0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: <5mg
