Perfect Homemade English Muffins

Why You’ll Love Perfect Homemade English Muffins Recipe

This English muffin recipe yields light, fluffy bread with those signature nooks and crannies that hold butter and spreads beautifully. It uses simple pantry staples, requires minimal hands-on time, and gives you better flavor and texture than store-bought versions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
instant yeast
salt
sugar
water

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water with sugar and instant yeast. Let it sit until foamy.

2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and the yeast mixture until a dough forms.

3. First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

4. Shape: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, roll it out to about 1 cm thickness, and cut circles using a round cutter.

5. Second rise: Place the rounds on a semolina- or cornmeal-dusted tray, cover, and allow to rise until puffy.

6. Cook: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the muffins about 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Cool & serve: Let cool slightly before splitting with a fork to preserve the nooks and crannies. Toast and serve with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 English muffins and takes roughly 35 minutes of active time, not including rising.

Variations

• Whole wheat: Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Sweet version: Add a tablespoon of honey or swap water for milk in the dough for a slightly richer taste.
• Herb muffins: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for savory muffins.
• Cheese muffins: Sprinkle grated cheese inside the dough before shaping for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover English muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw (if frozen) and toast until warmed through. For best texture, split and toast before serving.

FAQs

What’s the difference between English muffins and regular muffins?

English muffins are yeast-leavened flatbreads cooked on a griddle, with a chewy texture and interior nooks and crannies. Regular muffins are sweet quick breads baked in a pan with a cake-like texture.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes. Just be sure to proof active dry yeast in warm water with sugar before mixing it into the flour.

Why do my English muffins lack nooks and crannies?

This usually happens from under-proofing or overworking the dough. Allow the dough to rise fully and always split the muffins with a fork, not a knife.

Do I have to cook them on a griddle?

No, a heavy skillet works just as well. Just be sure to maintain a steady medium-low heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside is fully cooked.

Can I bake them in the oven instead?

Yes. Some methods include finishing the muffins in the oven after griddling to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked inside.

How do I keep them soft?

Add a small amount of milk or butter to the dough to enrich it and avoid overcooking during the griddle process.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape and cook the muffins later.

How do I prevent sticking during cooking?

Dust both the griddle and the dough with semolina or cornmeal to prevent sticking and to give that signature crunchy bottom.

What toppings go well with English muffins?

English muffins are great with butter, jam, honey, eggs, cheese, or breakfast meats like bacon or sausage.

Can I freeze cooked English muffins?

Absolutely. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and toast before serving for best results.

Conclusion

Homemade English muffins are a delightful and versatile addition to any breakfast or brunch table. They’re easy to make, require basic ingredients, and offer far better texture and taste than store-bought versions. Whether you toast them with a pat of butter or build a full breakfast sandwich, these muffins are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.