English Muffin Bread Recipe
Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked bread that’s just waiting to be toasted and slathered with butter or your favorite jam. This English Muffin Bread Recipe offers all the delightful nooks and crannies of traditional English muffins, but without the hassle of shaping each individual muffin. It’s a breeze to make and perfect for breakfast or a wholesome snack.
This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a loaf that is soft, hearty, and utterly delicious. It’s the perfect base for any toppings you adore, whether savory or sweet. Let’s dive in and explore how to whip up this delightful bread that will become a staple in your kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The beauty of this English Muffin Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Unlike traditional English muffins, which require a bit more effort, this recipe allows you to bake a whole loaf with minimal fuss. The texture is fluffy yet sturdy, making it ideal for toasting. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy the classic flavor of English muffins in a more convenient form. Whether you enjoy it plain, topped with eggs, or as a base for a savory sandwich, this bread will not disappoint.
What Goes In
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our bread, giving it structure and texture.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar – A touch of sweetness that complements the yeast.
- 1.5 teaspoons salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Adds a bit of lift and tenderness to the bread.
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast – The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
- 1 cup milk – Provides moisture and richness; use any milk you prefer.
- ¾ cup water – Helps hydrate the flour and activate the yeast.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil – Adds moisture and softness to the bread.
- Cornmeal for sprinkling – Gives the crust a lovely texture and prevents sticking.
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
- Loaf pan – A standard 9×5 inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to baking.
- Whisk – For mixing dry ingredients and ensuring even distribution.
- Spatula – Helps with folding the dough and scraping the bowl.
- Kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
Directions: English Muffin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your milk is warm but not hot, as this will help activate the yeast. If using a microwave, warm the milk for about 30 seconds.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, water, and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients, along with the vegetable or canola oil. Stir with a spatula until everything is just combined and a sticky dough forms.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, just until it becomes smoother. Remember, this dough will be a bit sticky, so keep flouring your hands as needed.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a log that will fit your loaf pan. Place it seam-side down in the greased pan.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the dough again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes until it puffs up and fills the pan.
Step 9: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread will bake evenly.
Step 10: Bake the Bread
Before placing the loaf in the oven, sprinkle the top with cornmeal. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 11: Cool the Loaf
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar to 1 teaspoon or substitute with a sugar alternative.
- Whole Grain: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier option.
Cook’s Notes
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or dried oregano.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise—check the expiration date before using.
- If you want a crustier loaf, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different oils, like olive oil, for added flavor.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To store your English muffin bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw at room temperature or pop slices in the toaster for a quick and delicious treat.
English Muffin Bread Recipe FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast! Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing it in water first.
Why does my bread not have enough nooks and crannies?
The nooks and crannies come from the dough’s rise and the baking process. Ensure you give it enough time to rise and avoid over-kneading.
Can I add mix-ins like cheese or herbs to this bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in your favorite ingredients after the first rise for added flavor.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. You can also use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches about 190°F (88°C).
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Let’s Eat
This English Muffin Bread Recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted to perfection, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re keeping it simple with butter or going gourmet with avocado and poached eggs, this bread is bound to impress. Happy baking!
English Muffin Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your milk is warm but not hot, as this will help activate the yeast. If using a microwave, warm the milk for about 30 seconds.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, water, and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients, along with the vegetable or canola oil. Stir with a spatula until everything is just combined and a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, just until it becomes smoother.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a log that will fit your loaf pan. Place it seam-side down in the greased pan.
- Cover the dough again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes until it puffs up and fills the pan.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Before placing the loaf in the oven, sprinkle the top with cornmeal. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or dried oregano.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise—check the expiration date before using.
- If you want a crustier loaf, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking.
