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English Muffins

English Muffins

Homemade English Muffins are a fresh, fluffy, and golden breakfast treat with a unique texture—crispy outside and soft inside. Perfect toasted with butter, jam, or as a base for eggs Benedict, this recipe uses simple pantry staples and easy steps to create delightful muffins with characteristic nooks and crannies.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 1/4 cups warm milk (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 3 tbsp melted butter
  • Cornmeal, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk until it is warm to the touch but not hot. Sprinkle the active dry yeast and sugar over the milk and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy, showing the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir gently until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Muffins: Gently deflate the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 3 to 4 inch round cutter to cut out circles. Place the circles on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the shaped muffins loosely and let them rise again for about 30 minutes to relax and puff up slightly before cooking.
  6. Cook on the Griddle: Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the muffins 7 to 10 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, flipping carefully to preserve their airiness and to develop the characteristic nooks and crannies.
  7. Cool and Split: Allow the muffins to cool completely before splitting them open with a fork or serrated knife, revealing the soft, tender interior ready for toasting and topping.

Notes

  • Allow dough to fully double in size for best texture and flavor.
  • Use a fork to split muffins for classic nooks and crannies.
  • Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Dust baking surfaces generously with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add crunch.
  • Cool muffins completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: English Muffins, homemade bread, breakfast muffins, griddle bread, traditional English muffins, fluffy muffins