Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

These Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are a delightful way to elevate your breakfast or brunch. With their unique nooks and crannies, these muffins are perfect for holding butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. Made without preservatives, they offer a fresh flavor that far surpasses store-bought options. Whether you’re enjoying them on a leisurely weekend morning or preparing a quick weekday meal, these English muffins are versatile and freezer-friendly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of homemade muffins without any preservatives.
• Easy to Freeze: Make a big batch and freeze for quick breakfasts later.
• Perfect Texture: The signature nooks and crannies make them ideal for toppings.
• Customizable: Use sourdough discard or change up the flavors with herbs and spices.
• Fun to Make: Engaging process that results in delicious rewards.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your delicious sourdough English muffins, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Round cutter (3–4 inches)
• Baking sheet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and quicker, leading to a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures muffins are cooked perfectly 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

In a medium bowl, mix the sourdough starter, milk, honey, and 4 cups of flour. Cover the bowl and leave it on the counter at room temperature for 8–10 hours.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Next Morning

Add baking soda, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the mixture. Knead the dough until smooth:
1. Use a stand mixer for about 5 minutes.
2. If kneading by hand, work for about 10 minutes.
3. Add more flour if needed until the dough is not sticky.
Let the dough rest for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Muffins

Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness:
1. Use a round cutter or glass to cut circles.
2. Place rounds on a lightly greased baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
3. Reroll scraps to make up to 18 small muffins or divide into 9 pieces for large muffins.
Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Cook the Muffins

Preheat a griddle to 325°F or heat a pan over medium-low heat:
1. Generously sprinkle cornmeal on the griddle/pan.
2. Cook several muffins at a time for 5–6 minutes per side.
3. Cover the pan if possible for even cooking.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check that centers reach 190°F when done.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sourdough English muffins!

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your breakfast or brunch experience.

Toasted with Butter

• Classic Choice: Simply toast the muffins until golden brown and spread a generous amount of butter on top for a warm, comforting treat.

With Jam or Honey

• Sweet Spread: Add your favorite jam or honey for a sweet twist. Raspberry jam or honeycomb pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of the muffins.

Breakfast Sandwiches

• Savory Delight: Use the muffins as a base for breakfast sandwiches. Layer them with eggs, cheese, and bacon for a filling start to your day.

Avocado Toast

• Healthy Option: Smash ripe avocado on toasted muffins and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a trendy and nutritious meal.

Eggs Benedict

• Brunch Favorite: Top with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for a luxurious brunch option that’s sure to impress.

As a Side for Soup

• Comfort Food Pairing: Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup. The nooks and crannies hold onto broth perfectly, making every bite delightful.

How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Perfecting your homemade sourdough English muffins is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before mixing it into the dough. This enhances flavor and texture.
• Monitor Dough Consistency: Adjust the flour amount based on humidity; the dough should be soft but not overly sticky for easy handling.
• Allow Proper Rising Time: Give the muffins enough time to rise. This step is crucial for developing flavor and achieving those iconic nooks.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Cooking at medium-low heat allows even cooking without burning. Adjust as needed while monitoring doneness.
• Use Thermometer for Doneness: Check the internal temperature; muffins should reach 190°F for perfect texture and doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your meal.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy and satisfying addition.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with soft muffins.
4. Smoked Salmon Platter: Combine with cream cheese, capers, and red onion for an elegant touch.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth of flavor and nutrition next to the muffins.
6. Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage completes your breakfast or brunch experience beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Sourdough English Muffins can be a joy, but several common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Not using active starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it. An inactive starter won’t provide the rise you need.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just enough to combine ingredients and achieve a smooth texture. Overworking the dough can make muffins tough.
• Skipping the overnight fermentation: This step enhances flavor and texture. Don’t rush it; allow at least 8 hours for optimal results.
• Ignoring dough stickiness: If your dough is too sticky, add flour gradually during kneading. Avoid adding too much flour, which can make muffins dense.
• Wrong cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the muffins’ exterior while leaving the inside raw. Use medium-low heat for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag.
• Homemade sourdough English muffins will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sourdough discard in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace the baking soda with 2–3 teaspoons of instant yeast and skip the overnight fermentation for quicker results.

How do I achieve those perfect nooks and crannies?

To get the best texture, always split your muffins with a fork rather than a knife after they are cooked.

Can I customize my Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add herbs, spices, or cheese to create different flavors that suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when my muffins are done cooking?

The center of your muffins should register 190°F on an instant-read thermometer when fully cooked.

What should I serve with homemade sourdough English muffins?

These muffins are delicious with butter, jam, or even as part of an Eggs Benedict breakfast!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are not only delightful but also versatile. Their unique texture and flavor make them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or toppings to make them truly yours!