Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

These Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. With their signature nooks and crannies, they offer a wonderful texture and flavor that far surpasses anything store-bought. Perfect for toasting and slathering with butter or your favorite jam, these muffins are not only delicious but also healthier, as they contain no preservatives. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them easy to enjoy anytime!

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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: Add Ingredients in the Morning
• Step 3: Shape the Muffins
• Step 4: Cook the Muffins
• How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Classic Breakfast Style
• Savory Options
• Sweet Treats
• 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 sourdough discard for these Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?
• What makes these Homemade Sourdough English Muffins different from store-bought ones?
• How do I achieve more nooks and crannies in my muffins?
• Can I add flavors or mix-ins to my Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?
• How should I store leftover Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The deep flavor of sourdough makes each bite memorable.
• Healthier Option: Made from scratch with no preservatives, these muffins are better for you than store-bought versions.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack throughout the day.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze them for easy access later.
• Fun to Make: Engaging and enjoyable to prepare at home with simple ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Getting your tools ready is essential for making perfect homemade sourdough English muffins. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and saves time if you’re making a large batch.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your 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

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How to Make Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Dough the Night Before

In a medium bowl, mix together the sourdough starter, milk, honey, and 4 cups of flour. Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap and leave it on the counter at room temperature for 8–10 hours. This step is crucial for developing flavor.

Step 2: Add Ingredients in the Morning

The next morning, add the baking soda, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth; this should take about 5 minutes using a stand mixer or 10 minutes by hand. If the dough feels too sticky, add additional flour as needed. Let it rest for about 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Muffins

Roll out the dough to about a 1/2-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or glass (3–4 inches in diameter) to cut circles from the dough. Place these rounds on a lightly greased baking sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal. Reroll any scraps if necessary to create up to 18 small muffins or divide into 9 pieces for larger ones. Cover loosely with sprayed/oiled plastic wrap and allow them to rise for approximately 1 hour.

Step 4: Cook the Muffins

Preheat your griddle to 325°F or heat a pan over medium-low heat. Generously sprinkle your cooking surface with cornmeal (or semolina/farina). Place several muffins on the griddle or pan at one time; cook them for about 5–6 minutes per side. For even cooking, cover the pan if possible. The center of each muffin should reach an internal temperature of 190°F when done—use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll end up with perfectly baked Homemade Sourdough English Muffins that are sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. From classic toppings to creative pairings, these muffins can elevate any meal or snack.

Classic Breakfast Style

• Butter and Jam: Spread a generous amount of butter on a warm muffin and top it with your favorite jam for a sweet treat.
• Egg and Cheese: Top with a fried or poached egg and a slice of cheese for a satisfying breakfast sandwich.
• Avocado Toast: Mash ripe avocado on half of a toasted muffin, sprinkle with salt and pepper for a healthy option.

Savory Options

• Smoked Salmon: Add cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers for an elegant brunch dish.
• Tomato and Basil: Top with fresh tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves for a fresh Italian-inspired flavor.
• Bacon and Egg: Layer crispy bacon on top of an egg for a hearty breakfast option.

Sweet Treats

• Nut Butter and Banana: Spread almond or peanut butter on the muffin and add banana slices for extra nutrition.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after toasting for a delightful sweet snack.

How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Creating the perfect homemade sourdough English muffins requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before use; this will improve flavor and texture.
• Knead Properly: Knead until the dough is smooth; this develops gluten which helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• Temperature Matters: Keep your dough at room temperature while rising; warmth encourages proper fermentation.
• Check Thickness: Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness for optimal cooking; thicker muffins may not cook evenly.
• Cook Slowly: Use low heat when cooking on the griddle to allow the insides to cook through without burning the outside.

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Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes. These sides can complement your muffins perfectly, making them even more enjoyable.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your meal.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the savory muffins.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a delightful crunch alongside soft muffins.
4. Oven-Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies add depth of flavor, making your meal more wholesome.
5. Creamy Soups: Pairing with tomato or butternut squash soup creates a comforting combination perfect for lunch or dinner.
6. Salad Greens: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette complements the richness of the muffins beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade sourdough English muffins can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Overproofing the dough: Allowing the dough to rise for too long can lead to flat muffins. Keep an eye on the dough and aim for it to double in size.
• Using inactive starter: An inactive sourdough starter will not provide the necessary rise. Always ensure your starter is bubbly and active before use.
• Ignoring flour measurements: Not measuring flour accurately can change the dough’s texture. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Under-cooking the muffins: Muffins that are not cooked through may taste doughy. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach 190°F internally.
• Cutting with a knife: Using a knife to split the muffins can crush their nooks and crannies. Always use a fork for splitting to preserve their texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store homemade sourdough English muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place muffins on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a muffin on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sourdough discard for these Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

Yes, you can substitute the baking soda with instant yeast if using sourdough discard.

What makes these Homemade Sourdough English Muffins different from store-bought ones?

Homemade versions are free of preservatives and have better texture and flavor, thanks to longer fermentation.

How do I achieve more nooks and crannies in my muffins?

Splitting them with a fork rather than cutting with a knife helps maintain their unique texture.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to my Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

Absolutely! Consider adding herbs, cheese, or even spices like cinnamon for variations.

How should I store leftover Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

These homemade sourdough English muffins offer delightful flavor and texture that elevate any breakfast or brunch. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings or add-ins. Try making them today and experience the joy of baking fresh muffins right at home!

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