Print

English Muffin Bread

English Muffin Bread
Print Recipe

English Muffin Bread is a soft, airy loaf combining the iconic nooks-and-crannies texture of traditional English muffins with the convenience of a sandwich bread. This homemade bread features a subtle yeast flavor with a slight sweetness, perfect for toasts, sandwiches, or breakfast treats. It uses simple pantry ingredients and is easy to make, offering versatility and a comforting, fresh-baked aroma.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons cornmeal (for the pan)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and active. This activates the yeast and ensures proper rising and flavor development.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms. The dough will be slightly wet, which is important for creating an airy texture.
  3. First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rising period develops the classic airy crumb of the bread.
  4. Prepare the Pan and Shape: Generously grease a loaf pan and sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal. This cornmeal layer creates the characteristic English muffin crust on the bottom of the loaf. Pour the risen dough into the pan and smooth the top evenly.
  5. Final Rise and Bake: Allow the dough to rise again in the pan for 30 to 45 minutes until slightly puffed. Then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and Slice: Remove the bread from the oven and pan, then cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling prevents the bread from becoming gummy and helps maintain perfect slices.

Notes

  • Use warm milk (not hot) to properly activate yeast.
  • Be patient with rising times for best texture and flavor.
  • Use plenty of cornmeal in the pan for authentic texture and crust.
  • Test doneness by inserting a toothpick or tapping the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
  • Store bread in a paper bag or bread box to maintain texture and prevent mold.
  • Avoid microwaving slices to prevent chewy or soggy bread—reheat in toaster or oven instead.

Nutrition

Keywords: English Muffin Bread, homemade bread, breakfast bread, airy bread, nooks and crannies, yeast bread, easy bread recipe

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/english-muffin-bread/