Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

These Homemade Sourdough English Muffins are a delightful treat that will elevate any breakfast or brunch. With their signature nooks and crannies, they offer a fresh, rich flavor that’s hard to beat. Unlike store-bought options, these muffins are free from preservatives and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying them toasted with butter or using them for a hearty breakfast sandwich, these English muffins are versatile and perfect for any occasion.

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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: The Night Before
• Step 2: The Next Morning
• Step 3: Shape the Muffins
• Step 4: Cook the Muffins
• How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins
• Classic Breakfast
• Savory Options
• Meal Prep Friendly
• 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 all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
• How do I know when my muffins are done?
• Can I use sourdough discard in this recipe?
• What should I serve with Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?
• How do I customize my muffins?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of homemade sourdough that enhances every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make these muffins accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and freeze for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
• Customizable: Use your favorite toppings or pair them with various spreads.
• Healthier Choice: Made without preservatives, they provide a wholesome alternative to store-bought muffins.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Rolling pin
• 3–4 inch round cutter or glass
• Baking sheet
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when kneading dough, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for consistent cooking results.
• 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: The Night Before

In a medium bowl, mix together the sourdough starter, milk, honey, and 4 cups of flour. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature for 8–10 hours. The time may vary depending on how active your starter is.

Step 2: The Next Morning

Add baking soda, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the mixture. Knead the dough until it is smooth. This should take about:
1. 5 minutes using a stand mixer
2. 10 minutes by hand

If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour as needed. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to relax the gluten.

Step 3: Shape the Muffins

Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use your round cutter or glass to cut circles from the dough:
1. Place each round on a lightly greased baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
2. Reroll scraps to make up to 18 small muffins or divide into 9 pieces for larger muffins.

Cover the muffins loosely with sprayed/oiled plastic wrap and allow them to rise for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Cook the Muffins

Preheat a griddle to 325°F or heat a pan over medium-low heat. Generously sprinkle cornmeal (or semolina/farina) on your cooking surface.
1. Place a few muffins on the griddle or pan at a time.
2. Cook each muffin for 5–6 minutes per side while covering the pan if possible.
3. Check that each muffin’s center registers at least 190°F with an instant-read thermometer before removing them from heat.

Enjoy your homemade sourdough English muffins fresh or freeze leftovers in a sealed bag for up to one month!

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Homemade sourdough English muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a classic breakfast option or a unique snack, these muffins can elevate any meal.

Classic Breakfast

• Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of butter and your favorite fruit jam for a sweet start to the day.
• Eggs Benedict: Top with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, and Canadian bacon for an indulgent brunch treat.

Savory Options

• Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on top, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a healthy twist.
• Smoked Salmon: Layer smoked salmon with cream cheese and capers for a gourmet addition.

Meal Prep Friendly

• Breakfast Sandwiches: Use them as a base for breakfast sandwiches filled with sausage, egg, and cheese.
• Mini Pizzas: Top with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings for quick mini pizzas.

Sweet Treats

• French Toast: Dip in egg mixture and cook until golden brown for delightful sourdough French toast.
• Sugar and Cinnamon: Dust with sugar and cinnamon for a sweet snack or dessert option.

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How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your homemade sourdough English muffins, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before beginning. This will help the muffins rise beautifully.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough well to develop gluten. A smooth dough will give you that perfect chewy texture.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, don’t hesitate to add more flour gradually until it’s manageable.
• Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest after kneading helps it relax, making it easier to shape the muffins evenly.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Keep an eye on your griddle or pan temperature. Cooking too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
• Store Properly: If not consumed immediately, store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

Pairing side dishes with your homemade sourdough English muffins enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness that complements savory muffins.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying side that balances flavors.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a hearty side dish that’s perfect alongside breakfast muffins.
4. Vegetable Frittata: A slice of frittata packed with veggies offers protein and fiber to round out your meal.
5. Bacon or Sausage Links: The salty richness of bacon or sausage pairs well with the mild flavor of English muffins.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses brings variety; think creamy brie or sharp cheddar alongside sliced muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Sourdough English Muffins can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfect results.

• Skipping the overnight rise: Failing to let the dough ferment overnight can result in less flavor and texture. Always allow your dough to rest for 8–10 hours.
• Using inactive starter: If your sourdough starter isn’t active, the muffins won’t rise properly. Ensure it’s bubbly and feeding regularly before using it in your recipe.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the muffins tough. Aim for smoothness without overdoing it—5 minutes with a mixer or 10 by hand is sufficient.
• Not dusting with cornmeal: Skipping this step can cause sticking. Generously dust your cooking surface to ensure easy flipping and beautiful muffin bottoms.
• Cutting with a knife: Using a knife to split the muffins will crush their nooks and crannies. Always split them with a fork for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness.

Freezing Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 1 month.
• • Containers: Place in a sealed plastic bag or freezer-safe container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.

Reheating Homemade Sourdough English Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat for about 3-4 minutes per side in a pan, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Homemade Sourdough English Muffins, along with helpful answers.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well in this recipe. However, bread flour may give you a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

The center of each muffin should register at least 190°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

Can I use sourdough discard in this recipe?

Absolutely! Replace baking soda with instant yeast and skip the overnight rise to incorporate sourdough discard effectively.

What should I serve with Homemade Sourdough English Muffins?

These muffins pair beautifully with butter, jam, or avocado spread. They also work great as bases for eggs Benedict!

How do I customize my muffins?

Feel free to add herbs, cheese, or even spices like cinnamon into the dough for unique flavors that suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Sourdough English Muffins offer fantastic flavor and texture that outshine store-bought versions. Their versatility makes them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Get creative by adding toppings or mix-ins that appeal to you. Enjoy making these delicious muffins!