English Muffins (2024)

· Modified: by John Kanell

How to make the most delicious, soft, and chewy English Muffins with all the nooks and crannies! My recipe is super easy and utterly delicious, spread them with butter or jam or use them to make your favorite breakfast like eggs benedict, delicious!

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English Muffins are one of my favorite breakfasts whether they’re simply toasted and slathered with butter and jam or made into delicious breakfast sandwiches with sausage, bacon, or egg. My English muffin recipe is so easy to make and you don’t have to be a master baker to make them. They’re soft, chewy, and have so much flavor, trust me when you realize how easy they are and how much more delicious (and healthier) they are compared to store-bought you’ll be making them over and over again.

Check out my recipe tutorial below complete with step by step photos, notes on ingredients, and all my top tips! Looking for more delicious breakfast ideas? Check out my Beignetsand myLemon Poppy Seed Muffins.

What you need to make this recipe

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Flour – all-purpose flour is perfect for this recipe you don’t need to use bread flour.

Butter – melted butter not only adds flavor but gives the muffins all the nooks and crannies for a traditional look and texture.

Yeast – you can use active dry or instant yeast for this, it’s activated in warm milk and water before using.

Milk – whole milk will give you the best flavor and help keep the muffins moist although you can use low-fat milk or even dairy-free.

Sugar – for flavor and to help activate the yeast. I don’t recommend using brown sugar as it’ll change the flavor.

Salt – it’s really important to season the dough with salt to enhance the flavors.

Semolina – semolina or cornmeal is used to sprinkle over the English muffins before cooking.

How to make English Muffins

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1. Add the yeast to warmed milk, water, and sugar.

2. Once foaming (6-7 minutes) add the egg and melted butter.

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3. Combine flour and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer then add the milk and yeast mixture.

4. Mix until the dough is elastic and smooth. Transfer to a large oiled bowl and cover until doubled in size.

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5. Pat out the dough on a floured surface until just under 1 inch thick.

6. Cut out the English Muffins with a 3 inch round cutter.

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7. Lay them spread apart on a baking sheet sprinkled with semolina. Cover and let proof for another 30 minutes or so.

8. Once ready, cook the muffins on a hot skillet for 5-6 minutes on each side.

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Pro tips for making this recipe

  • Although you can let the dough proof for just 1 hour they will have more flavor the longer you leave it (4-8 hours).
  • I recommend using a stand mixer to make these as the dough is very sticky and difficult to handle.
  • If you use bread flour instead of AP flour your muffins will have a chewier texture.
  • Place the dough in a warm place to prove quicker but make sure it’s not hot or in direct sunlight or it will have the opposite effect.
  • If you don’t have a round cutter you can shape the dough into rounds by hand.
  • If your muffins are under-baked and overly soft in the middle then bake them for about 3 minutes at 350F and they’ll be right as rain.
  • If your English muffins are sticking when cooking you can add a tiny amount of butter to the pan.
  • A cast-iron skillet or griddle is best for cooking the muffins.
  • You’ll need to cook them in batches, make sure to brush away the excess semolina so it doesn’t burn.
  • Use a serrated knife to cut open the muffins when you are ready to serve them.
  • The English muffins are best served toasted.

English Muffins (7)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dough so sticky?

The dough is supposed to be sticky, it’s needed to give them all the nooks and crannies that are traditionally found in English muffins.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough and let it prove in the fridge overnight. Bring it to room temperature for 1 hour before continuing with the next steps. Alternatively, you can bake the English Muffins in advance and toast them when you are ready to serve.

What’s the best way to serve them?

English muffins are perfect toasted and spread with butter or jam for breakfast or a snack. They’re also one of the key ingredients for Egg benedict and breakfast sandwiches (McMuffin style), or can be served with scrambled eggs and bacon.

How long do they last, can I freeze them?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days and can be toasted if they start drying out or you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before serving.

English Muffins (13)

If you’ve tried these English Muffins then don’t forget to leave a rating and let me know how you got on in the comments below, I love hearing from you!

English Muffins (14)

4.88 from 848 votes

English Muffins

How to make the most delicious homemade English Muffins! Don't forget to check out my step by step photos and tips above!

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Course Breakfast

Cuisine english

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

rise time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes

Servings 14 English muffins

Calories 132kcal

Author John Kanell

Video

Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (330g)
  • 2 1/4 tsp yeast instant or fast acting one package
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 3/4 cup milk (180ml)
  • 1/2 cup water (120ml)
  • 3 tablespoons butter (42g)
  • 1 egg large, room temperature
  • cornmeal for dusting or Semolina

Instructions

  • Combine the milk, water, and sugar in a bowl or glass measuring cup then stir together and warm in the microwave to 110F add the yeast and stir once more. Set aside for 5-7 minutes or until a foamy head develops.

  • While the yeast wakes up combine the flour and salt in the bowl of your mixer and whisk together then fit with a paddle attachment.

  • Mix the egg and melted butter into the milk mixture then slowly pour the liquid into your flour mixture while mixing on low. Increase the speed to medium high and mix for about 7 minutes or until the dough is elastic and smooth.

  • Transfer to a large oiled bowl and cover with plastic. Allow to double in size in a warm spot (about an hour). You can also refrigerate the dough overnight, in which case you’ll let it warm for an hour when ready to use.

  • Transfer the dough to a floured counter then gently spread out and pat down until it’s just under an inch thick. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and sprinkle with cornmeal or semolina.

  • Use a 3 inch round cutter to cut your muffins then gently transfer them to the prepared baking sheets using a spatula or your hands. Re-roll the scraps and continue cutting until the dough is used up. Cover loosely with plastic and place in a warm spot to rise for about 30 minutes.

  • Place a large skillet over very low heat. Once you can feel the heat when placing your hand a few inches over the surface sprinkle the surface with cornmeal or semolina then carefully place 3-4 muffins on the pan. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes. Then carefully flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes.

  • Clear the old cornmeal off the pan then add a fresh sprinkle and cook the remaining muffins. Enjoy warm! If you haven’t made these before it’s best to cook a test muffin to get the feel of it.

Notes

  • Although you can let the dough proof for just 1 hour they will have more flavor the longer you leave it (4-8 hours).
  • I recommend using a stand mixer to make these as the dough is very sticky and difficult to handle.
  • If you use bread flour instead of AP flour your muffins will have a chewier texture.
  • Place the dough in a warm place to prove quicker but make sure it's not hot or in direct sunlight or it will have the opposite effect.
  • If you don't have a round cutter you can shape the dough into rounds by hand.
  • If your muffins are under-baked and overly soft in the middle then bake them for about 3 minutes at 350F and they'll be right as rain.
  • If your English muffins are sticking when cooking you can add a tiny amount of butter to the pan.
  • A cast-iron skillet or griddle is best for cooking the muffins.
  • You'll need to cook them in batches, make sure to brush away the excess semolina so it doesn't burn.
  • Use a serrated knife to cut open the muffins when you are ready to serve them.
  • The English muffins are best served toasted.
  • Storage - cooked English muffins will keep well in an airtight container for 3-5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 132kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 195mg | Potassium: 63mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 96IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg

*Nutrition Disclaimer

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English Muffins (2024)

FAQs

Is it okay to eat an English muffin every day? ›

Additionally, studies show that increased intake of refined grains — such as English muffins made with refined flour — may be associated with increased belly fat, higher triglyceride levels, and decreased insulin sensitivity, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes ( 14 , 15 ).

Which is healthier, a bagel or an English muffin? ›

English muffins are healthier options than plain bagels, since English muffins contain less carbohydrates, sodium, calories, and sugar than bagels. Similar to whole wheat English muffins, the nutritional value of a bagel can be increased by opting for a whole wheat bagel.

Are English muffins healthier than bread for weight loss? ›

Is an English muffin better for you than bread? A. English muffins are slightly healthier than bread because they include fewer calories, carbohydrates, fats, and sugar than bread. However, both have a high carbohydrate content, which can offer energy throughout the day, and many nutrients.

What do British people call English muffins? ›

United Kingdom. English muffins are usually referred to simply as muffins in the UK; sweet American-style cupcake-shaped muffins are occasionally referred to as American muffins to differentiate. They are usually consumed with tea or coffee, and sometimes feature in afternoon tea served in UK hotels.

What is the healthiest English muffin to eat? ›

  • Best: Trader Joe's Whole Wheat English Muffin.
  • Best: Stone & Skillet Artisan Whole Wheat English Muffin.
  • Best: 365 Whole Foods Whole Wheat English Muffins.
  • Best: Dam Good Whole Wheat Sourdough English Muffins.
  • Worst: Thomas Honey Wheat English Muffin.
  • Worst: Bay's Brioche English Muffins.
  • Worst: Franz Keto English Muffins.
Jun 6, 2024

Are English muffins good for your gut? ›

Whole wheat English muffins may benefit your digestive health because of their high fibre content. In fact, several studies suggest that individuals with persistent constipation may benefit from eating enough fibre. Haemorrhoids might also be avoided by doing this.

Are English muffins considered processed food? ›

These include fruits canned or jarred in light syrup, frozen vegetables in butter or cream sauce, English muffins and pita bread, flour tortillas, veggie pasta, and ice cream. All of these foods are processed by adding salt, oil, sugar, or other substances to foods.

Do English muffins raise blood sugar? ›

Bread. Foods that contain processed white flour and sugar — such as white bread, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, and bagels — are low in nutrients but high in carbohydrates. They offer little nutritional benefit and can trigger a blood glucose spike.

Is an English muffin healthier than a croissant? ›

Both bagels and muffins can be made with whole grains, providing additional nutritional value. Croissants and donuts are most often made with refined white flour, which is less packed with nutrients than whole grains. Donuts are also fried in additional fat, adding to the total fat content.

Are English muffins anti-inflammatory? ›

"Many muffins are loaded with added sugar, saturated fat, and other pro-inflammatory ingredients," says Manaker. "While muffins may sound healthy, depending on how they are made, they may be a not-so-great choice for people who are trying to reduce inflammation."

How long does it take to digest an English muffin? ›

Carbohydrate-rich food, including white bread, English muffins or bagels, will take only 30 minutes to digest for quick energy.

How many calories are in 2 eggs? ›

Egg Nutrition

Eggs are one of nature's most nutritious foods. Each serving of 2 eggs (105 g) contains 15 essential vitamins and minerals, only 160 calories and an incredible amount of nutrition. The nutrition tables speak for themselves! So include eggs as part of your healthy diet!

What is a crumpet called in America? ›

Most of my American audience call crumpets… English muffins. It's worth getting to know which is which as they are both very different.

What is a crumpet vs English muffin? ›

They're about the same size and have craters or holes. The differences are that crumpets are always made with milk (you won't find any milk in English muffin recipes) and are only griddled on one side, leaving one side toasted and the other soft—think sort of like a pancake's texture, only a little more spongy.

What are biscuits called in England? ›

In Britain, what Americans refer to as “biscuits” are known as “scones.” British biscuits are actually what Americans call “cookies.” The term “biscuits” in the United Kingdom typically refers to sweet, crumbly, and sometimes buttery bakes treats, distinct from the soft, bread-like biscuits found in the United States.

Is it healthy to eat a full English breakfast everyday? ›

Research suggests that consuming an English breakfast may be more beneficial for weight loss than a breakfast high in carbohydrates such as cereal or fresh fruit. This is down to the fact that a full English breakfast is higher in protein and will therefore leave you less likely to snack on other foods until lunchtime.

Can you eat a muffin everyday and lose weight? ›

Muffins aren't inherently bad, but if you consume them daily in place of a balanced breakfast, they won't help you reach your weight loss goal.

Is an English muffin better for you than a biscuit? ›

To get the benefits of long-lasting energy and fullness from these sandwiches look for those made with English muffins, flatbread or tortillas instead of biscuits. They are usually at least 100 calories lighter and much lower in saturated fat and sodium than biscuit-based sandwiches.

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