These homemade English muffins are soft and chewy, with a slightly crisp exterior. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they can be enjoyed with various toppings like butter, jam, or even as a base for eggs Benedict.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cup warm water (should feel warm on your wrist)
- 1 tbsp sugar (12.5 grams)
- 1 tsp instant dry yeast (2.83 grams)
- 2 tbsp oil (canola, vegetable, or neutral olive oil; melted butter is fine too)
- 2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour or bread flour (plus up to 1/4 cup extra)
- 1 tsp salt (add an extra pinch if using kosher salt)
- Cornmeal for dusting (about 2-3 tbsp)
Instructions:
Prepare the yeast mixture by combining warm water and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and allow it to foam for about 10 minutes.
Incorporate the oil and salt into the yeast mixture, then gradually add the flour until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth, adding more flour if needed to prevent stickiness.
Place the dough in another bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes around 1 hour.
After the dough has risen, knead it briefly and divide it into 10 pieces. Roll each piece into discs and flatten them slightly. Sprinkle cornmeal on top of each disc and let them puff up for 20 minutes on a baking sheet.
Heat a pan over medium-low heat and lightly oil it. Cook the muffins in batches by covering them with a lid for 9 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 5 minutes or until golden brown.
Transfer the cooked muffins to a wire rack to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade English muffins with your favorite toppings!
Notes:
To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend that is designed as a cup-for-cup replacement for regular flour. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour have blends that include xanthan gum, which helps mimic gluten’s elasticity. If the dough feels too stiff, add a bit more warm water until you reach a soft, pliable consistency. Handle the gluten-free dough with care, as it can be more delicate. Dusting with certified gluten-free cornmeal not only prevents sticking but adds a delightful crunch. With these tweaks, you can enjoy gluten-free English muffins that are perfect for everyone.