Homemade English Muffins (easy Step By Step) Recipe

I love experimenting with simple ingredients like 1 cup heated milk, 1 cup heated water, yeast, and melted butter in my Homemade English Muffins recipe. The blend of milk, water, sugar, and salt creates a unique flavor that makes these muffins a memorable treat every time I make them.

I’m so excited to share my homemade English Muffins recipe with you. I discovered that using simple ingredients like 1 cup warm milk and 1 cup warm water at about 110°F, plus 2¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast, really makes all the difference.

I mix in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 4 cups of all-purpose flour, then incorporate 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter to add a little rich flavor that many English muffin recipes seem to miss. I also dust my work surface with cornmeal to get that delightful crispy finish.

This recipe is a prime example of an easy bread recipe that feels like a fun project at home without needing special equipment. If you’ve been looking for a simple muffin recipe or even an approachable homemade bread recipe, you’re definitely gonna love this one.

It’s a fresh twist on a timeless favorite that’s low calorie yet bursting with flavor.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe for a bunch of reasons. First, I love how simple it is – I don’t need any fancy gadgets, just common kitchen stuff and a little patience. Second, the mix of warm milk and water with the yeast makes the dough come out super soft and a bit chewy, which is exactly how I like my muffins. Third, making them from scratch gives me a sense of pride and comfort, like it’s a little breakfast treat that feels homemade and personal.

I also have a soft spot for that classic combo; there’s nothin better than biting into a toasted English muffin slathered in butter and jam. It kinda reminds me of lazy weekends and a warm feeling inside, even if the instructions are a bit rough sometimes and I mess up occasionally. Overall, it’s a simple and satisfying recipe that always makes my morning a bit brighter.

Ingredients

• Warm milk provides proteins and vitamins while adding a creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Warm water helps wake up the yeast and dissolve ingredients, making the dough bubbly.
• Active dry yeast drives the rising process and gives muffins a light, airy texture.
• Sugar not only sweetens the mix but also fuels the yeast fermentation for better rise.
• Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness while reinforcing the dough structure.
• Flour supplies carbohydrates and gluten, which builds a hearty, satisfying bite.
• Melted butter delivers a rich, smooth texture that keeps muffins moist.
• Cornmeal dusting adds a slight crunchy feel and helps prevent the dough from sticking.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Cornmeal for dusting your work surface

How to Make this

1. In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, warm water, yeast and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it looks foamy.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.

3. Pour the yeast mixture over the flour, then add in the melted butter. Stir until a dough starts to form.

4. On a cornmeal-dusted work surface, knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and a bit sticky.

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.

6. Punch down the dough gently to release the air.

7. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness on the cornmeal-dusted surface.

8. Cut out rounds with a biscuit cutter or a glass, then dust the tops with a little more cornmeal.

9. Let the rounds rest for another 15 minutes; they might puff up a bit more.

10. Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over medium heat and cook the muffins for about 6 minutes total, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl for the yeast, milk, water, and sugar
2. Another bowl for mixing the flour and salt
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. A whisk or fork for stirring the yeast mixture
5. A clean towel to cover the dough while it rises
6. A cornmeal-dusted work surface (like a countertop or cutting board)
7. A rolling pin for rolling out the dough
8. A biscuit cutter or a glass for cutting out rounds
9. A griddle or heavy skillet for cooking the muffins

FAQ

Homemade English Muffins (easy Step By Step) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have warm milk, you can substitute with soy milk or almond milk. They work well in the recipe.
• You can swap the warm water with a light, unsweetened tea if you’re looking for a different flavor twist.
• If you dont have active dry yeast, instant yeast is a good alternative. Use the same amount, but check the package instructions sometimes.
• Instead of granulated sugar, try using honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind they are sweeter so you might wanna use a bit less.
• If you dont have unsalted butter, melted margarine or coconut oil can be used in equal amounts.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure your liquids are actually around 110°F. Too hot and you might accidentally kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t do its job so using a thermometer can really help.
2. When you’re kneading, go easy on adding extra flour. If you sprinkle too much, you’ll end up with a dense dough instead of that nice, soft texture.
3. Let your dough rise until it really doubles in size even if it takes longer than an hour. Sometimes a little extra time in a warm spot makes a big difference.
4. Keep an eye on your griddle temperature. Since every stove heats a bit different, watch your muffins closely and flip them when they get golden brown to avoid burning.