English Muffin Bread

If you’ve ever bitten into a warm, toasty English muffin and thought, “I wish I could have this in loaf form,” then you’re in for a treat! English Muffin Bread is the perfect solution, combining the delightful nooks and crannies of traditional English muffins with the ease of a bread loaf. This recipe is incredibly simple, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, sandwiches, or even as a side with soup. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma that will have everyone rushing to the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

This English Muffin Bread recipe is one of my favorites because it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or topped with your favorite spreads. The texture is perfect for holding in jam, and it can easily be transformed into a delicious French toast for a weekend brunch. Every slice is packed with flavor, and it’s perfect for any time of day!

What Goes In

To make this delicious English Muffin Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 teaspoons)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• Cornmeal to sprinkle in the pan

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a soft, fluffy bread with that classic English muffin texture.

Recommended Tools

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, here are a few tools I recommend:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing the ingredients together without making a mess.
• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Whisk: For combining the dry ingredients effectively.
• Plastic Wrap: To cover the dough while it rises, ensuring it stays warm and moist.

Cooking English Muffin Bread: The Process

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making English Muffin Bread.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, fine sea salt, baking soda, and instant yeast until well combined. This ensures that the yeast is distributed evenly throughout the flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine the milk, water, and vegetable oil. Warm the milk and water slightly in the microwave or on the stove—just enough to take the chill off, which helps activate the yeast.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. It’s important not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry spots.

Step 4: First Rise

Lightly grease the loaf pan and sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal at the bottom. Transfer the dough to the loaf pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

About 20 minutes before the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready when your dough is done rising.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, remove the cover and place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cool, slice it and toast it to your liking!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

One of the best parts about English Muffin Bread is how easily it can be customized. Here are some seasonal ideas to inspire your baking:

• Spring: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
• Summer: Mix in some lemon zest or poppy seeds for a refreshing flavor.
• Fall: Incorporate pumpkin puree and spices for a warm, seasonal touch.
• Winter: Add dried fruit such as cranberries or chopped nuts for a festive loaf.

Behind the Recipe

English Muffin Bread has roots in the beloved English muffin, which was first popularized in the United States during the late 19th century. This bread brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty, chewy texture of an English muffin paired with the convenience of a sliced loaf. It’s perfect for those busy mornings when you want something homemade without the fuss of shaping individual muffins.

Making it at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also fills your home with warmth and comfort—a true delight for any baker!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover English Muffin Bread, don’t worry! Here are a few tips for storing and using it:

• Storage: Keep the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! Slice it beforehand and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just toast straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Meal Prep: You can make this bread in advance for busy mornings. Toast slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick breakfasts.

Common Qs About English Muffin Bread

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. You might want to start with a 50/50 blend.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. A digital thermometer can also be helpful; the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

Can I add mix-ins like cheese or herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to stir in shredded cheese, herbs, or spices to customize your loaf. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it may affect the dough’s consistency.

What’s the best way to toast this bread?

For the best results, slice the bread and toast it in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown. A little butter or olive oil enhances the flavor beautifully!

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this English Muffin Bread, you’ll definitely want to try these recipes as well:

• Garlic Herb Focaccia Garden Bread
• Lemon Glazed Zucchini Bread Muffins

Make It Tonight

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own bread, and this English Muffin Bread recipe makes it easy and enjoyable. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a warm, delicious loaf ready in no time. Whether you’re slathering it with butter, making a sandwich, or transforming it into French toast, this English Muffin Bread will quickly become a staple in your home. So, gather your ingredients and get baking tonight!