Homemade English Muffins Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Perfect for Breakfast

Homemade English Muffins are soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and filled with classic nooks and crannies that hold melted butter beautifully. These skillet-cooked breakfast breads are easy to make and taste far fresher than store-bought muffins. Perfect for toast, sandwiches, eggs Benedict, or jam, they make a delicious homemade breakfast treat everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love These English Muffins

• Soft and chewy texture
• Golden crust with classic nooks and crannies
• Cooked on a skillet, not baked
• Perfect for breakfast sandwiches
• Easy homemade bread recipe
• Better than store-bought muffins

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3½ cups (420g) all-purpose or bread flour
• 1¼ cups (300ml) warm milk
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg (optional for richer texture)
• Cornmeal for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy if using active dry yeast.

Add melted butter, salt, egg, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover with a towel.

Allow it to rise for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Muffins

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½-inch thickness.

Using a round cutter or glass, cut circles from the dough.

Place the dough rounds onto a tray dusted with cornmeal. Sprinkle extra cornmeal on top.

Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 4: Cook the Muffins

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.

Cook the muffins for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked inside.

Adjust the heat if needed so the muffins cook evenly without burning.

Transfer to a wire rack and cool slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Split the muffins gently using a fork to create the classic texture inside.

Toast and serve with:

• Butter
• Jam
• Honey
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Sausage or chicken fillings

Tips for Perfect English Muffins

• Use low heat for even cooking
• Dust generously with cornmeal for authentic texture
• Fork-splitting gives better nooks and crannies
• Do not overcrowd the skillet
• Bread flour gives a chewier texture

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.

You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and toast before serving.

Final Thoughts

These homemade English Muffins are soft, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Their chewy texture and golden crust make them perfect for breakfast or snacks any time of day. Once you try making them fresh at home, you may never want store-bought muffins again.