Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

These Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are a game changer for breakfast or brunch. They offer the delightful nooks and crannies you adore, filled with rich flavor and no preservatives. Ideal for any occasion, these muffins are not only delicious but also freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prep. Enjoy them toasted with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• The Night Before (8 hours before)
• Next Morning
• To Cook the English Muffins
• How to Make Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Step 1: Prepare the Dough the Night Before
• Step 2: Mix in Additional Ingredients
• Step 3: Shape the Muffins
• Step 4: Cook the Muffins
• How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Sweet Toppings
• Savory Options
• Breakfast Sandwiches
• How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Reheating Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use whole wheat flour?
• How do I know when my muffins are done?
• Can I make these without a sourdough starter?
• What are some toppings for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?
• How long do these muffins last in the freezer?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavor: The use of a sourdough starter gives these muffins a unique taste that surpasses store-bought options.
• Healthier Option: Without preservatives, these muffins provide a wholesome alternative for your breakfast table.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to create variations that suit your palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for all skill levels.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can make a large batch and freeze them for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools needed for creating these delightful sourdough English muffins.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Round cutter or glass
• Baking sheet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and saves time. It’s ideal if you’re making larger batches.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures that your muffins are perfectly cooked by checking internal temperature.

Ingredients

The Night Before (8 hours before)

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cups milk
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)

Next Morning

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1–2 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)

To Cook the English Muffins

• Cornmeal, semolina, or farina for dusting

How to Make Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Dough the Night Before

1. In a medium bowl, mix the sourdough starter, milk, honey, and 4 cups of flour.
2. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 8–10 hours.

Step 2: Mix in Additional Ingredients

1. The next morning, add baking soda, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the mixture.
2. Knead the dough until smooth—about 5 minutes using a stand mixer or 10 minutes by hand.
3. Let the dough rest for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Muffins

1. Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Use a round cutter or glass to cut circles approximately 3–4 inches wide.
3. Place rounds on a lightly greased baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
4. Reroll scraps to create additional small muffins or divide into larger pieces as desired.
5. Cover loosely with sprayed/oiled plastic wrap and let rise for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Cook the Muffins

1. Preheat a griddle to 325°F or heat a pan over medium-low heat. Sprinkle generously with cornmeal.
2. Place a few muffins on the griddle/pan at a time.
3. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side; cover if possible to help them cook evenly.
4. Check that the center registers 190°F using an instant-read thermometer when done.

Enjoy your homemade sourdough English muffins fresh off the griddle!

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins are a versatile delight that can be served in various ways. Whether you prefer sweet or savory toppings, these muffins can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience.

Sweet Toppings

• Butter and Jam: Spread a layer of butter and your favorite jam for a classic treat.
• Nut Butter: Slather on almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed option.
• Honey and Cinnamon: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle cinnamon for a warm, comforting flavor.

Savory Options

• Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on top, season with salt and pepper for a nutritious twist.
• Eggs Benedict: Top with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, and Canadian bacon for an indulgent meal.
• Cheese and Tomato: Melt cheese on a toasted muffin slice, add fresh tomato slices for a simple yet delicious snack.

Breakfast Sandwiches

• Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: Layer crispy bacon, a fried egg, and cheddar cheese for a hearty breakfast sandwich.
• Smoked Salmon: Combine cream cheese with smoked salmon and capers for an elegant brunch option.

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How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Creating the perfect homemade sourdough English muffins requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out great every time.

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active for the best flavor.
• Knead Properly: Knead until smooth; this helps gluten development for better texture.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep the cooking surface at the right temperature to avoid burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
• Allow Enough Rising Time: Don’t rush the rising process; it’s crucial for developing flavor and texture.
• Experiment with Flours: Mixing different flours can enhance the taste; consider whole wheat or rye flour for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Pairing your homemade sourdough English muffins with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness to your breakfast.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side option.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns complement the muffins perfectly, adding texture and heartiness.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides nutrition alongside your muffins.
5. Baked Beans: A savory option that offers protein and fiber, making it filling alongside muffins.
6. Crispy Bacon Strips: The saltiness of bacon pairs well with the mild flavors of the muffins, creating a classic combo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Sourdough English Muffins can be a rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Failing to use an active starter: Using a starter that hasn’t been fed or isn’t bubbly can result in dense muffins. Ensure your starter is active and bubbly before starting the recipe.
• Not letting the dough rest: Skipping the resting period can lead to tough muffins. Allow the dough to rest as directed to achieve a better texture.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the muffins chewy rather than light and airy. Knead just until smooth for the best results.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Keep your griddle or pan at medium-low heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting to measure accurately: Incorrect measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of flour and other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a sealed plastic bag or container for up to 1 month.
• Label bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap muffins in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place muffin on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pan for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions often asked about making Homemade Sourdough English Muffins:

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 190°F.

Can I make these without a sourdough starter?

You can use instant yeast instead of sourdough starter by adjusting the recipe accordingly.

What are some toppings for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

These muffins pair well with butter, jam, or cream cheese. You could also add avocado or eggs for a hearty meal.

How long do these muffins last in the freezer?

Frozen muffins will maintain their best quality for up to 1 month but remain safe beyond that time if kept properly sealed.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent addition to breakfast or brunch and can be customized with various toppings and spreads. Give this recipe a try and enjoy fresh, homemade muffins straight from your kitchen!