Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast treat that’s both easy to make and oh-so-satisfying, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! These Sourdough Discard English Muffins are a cherished staple in my kitchen. They’re soft, fluffy, and come together with minimal effort—no kneading required! I love how they can be made overnight for a quick morning option or whipped up same-day for those impromptu brunch gatherings. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these homemade beauties, store-bought muffins will feel like a distant memory!

What makes this recipe even more special is that it’s a fantastic way to use up your sourdough discard. It’s such a joy to transform something that might otherwise go to waste into delicious, golden-brown muffins that are perfect for toasting. Whether piled high with butter and honey or transformed into the ultimate breakfast sandwich, these muffins are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: The no-knead dough comes together quickly without any fancy equipment.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves English muffins! They’re great for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough overnight for an effortless morning treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sourdough discard and fresh ingredients creates a unique taste that elevates your breakfast game.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe is super simple! You won’t need anything fancy—just some wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Muffins

• 1 cup whole milk (240 grams), warmed to 110 degrees F
• 2 tablespoons (28 grams or 1 ounce) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) brown sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• 1 teaspoon (3 grams) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (140 grams) sourdough discard
• 2 1/2 cups (300 grams) bread flour
• 2 teaspoons (6 grams) kosher salt

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these muffins to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in your favorite spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a savory muffin.
• Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate dried fruit like cranberries or blueberries for a sweet surprise.

How to Make Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Start by combining warm milk, melted butter, sourdough discard, brown sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let this mixture sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your muffins rise beautifully!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Once your mixture is bubbly and fragrant, add in the bread flour and kosher salt. Using a dough whisk or wooden spoon, mix until everything is combined and forms a slightly sticky dough. Don’t worry if it feels tacky; that’s just right!

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your mixing bowl with a clean towel and set it aside in a warm spot. Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size—this usually takes about 60-90 minutes. A good rise is essential for achieving those fluffy muffins we all love!

Step 4: Shape the Muffins

Once risen, gently dump the dough onto a floured surface. Press or roll it out to about an inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or drinking glass to cut out rounds. Don’t forget to reshape scraps so you can maximize your muffin yield!

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped muffins on a pan generously dusted with cornmeal or semolina flour. Cover them again and let them rise until puffy—about an hour should do it! If they came from the fridge, give them about two hours. This step allows those lovely nooks and crannies to form.

Step 6: Cook Them Up

Preheat an electric skillet to 300°F or use a heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Place your risen muffins into the skillet while leaving space between each one. Cover and cook them for five minutes before flipping them over and cooking on the second side for another five minutes.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

For perfectly cooked muffins, reduce heat slightly and flip them occasionally until they reach an internal temperature of 195-200°F. Alternatively, you can finish them off in a preheated oven at 350°F for about ten minutes if you prefer.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once cooked through, transfer your muffins onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely at room temperature before slicing.

Now all that’s left is to enjoy those crispy edges and delightful nooks filled with butter and jam—or however else you choose! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe

Making these English muffins is quite simple, but a few tips can help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time!

• Use fresh sourdough discard – Fresh discard will have more active yeast, which can enhance the rise and flavor of your muffins. If your discard has been sitting in the fridge for too long, it may not perform as well.
• Let the dough rise until puffy – Allowing the dough to fully rise before shaping ensures that your muffins are light and airy. If they aren’t puffy enough before cooking, they may turn out dense.
• Preheat your skillet properly – A preheated skillet is crucial to achieving that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside fluffy. Too high heat can burn the outside before cooking through, so medium-low is key!
• Experiment with different flours – While bread flour gives a wonderful structure, mixing in whole wheat flour or even rye can add depth of flavor. Just keep an eye on hydration levels as you adjust.
• Use a fork to split muffin halves – This method creates those signature nooks and crannies that hold butter, honey, or jam beautifully. It enhances both appearance and taste!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe

These homemade English muffins are not only delicious but also versatile! Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as part of a meal, there are countless ways to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Butter and honey – A classic combination; simply spread some butter on a toasted muffin and drizzle with honey for a delightful treat.
• Avocado slices – Add creamy avocado on top with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a nutritious twist.
• Herbed cream cheese – Whip up some cream cheese with fresh herbs to spread on top for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the hearty muffins. Think berries, melons, and citrus!
• Scrambled eggs with spinach – Whipping up fluffy scrambled eggs mixed with sautéed spinach makes for a great savory pairing that complements the muffins wonderfully.
• Hash browns – Crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch next to soft muffins, making it a hearty breakfast option.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light side that pairs perfectly with your warm muffins!

With these serving suggestions in mind, you can take your Sourdough Discard English Muffins to new heights! Enjoy your baking journey!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Sourdough Discard English Muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring fresh, warm muffins whenever you desire.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the muffins to cool completely at room temperature.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled English muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, toast the muffins directly from frozen in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes on each side.
• You can also pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use different types of flour for the Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe?

Yes! While bread flour gives the best texture, you can experiment with all-purpose flour or even whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it may alter the muffin’s density and flavor slightly.

How long does it take to make the Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe?

The dough takes about 1-2 hours to rise, depending on your environment. If you choose to chill it overnight, you can bake fresh muffins in the morning without any extra work!

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise properly, check that your yeast is active. If it’s expired or not stored correctly, it may not work effectively. Also, ensure that your kitchen is warm enough; cooler temperatures can slow down yeast activity.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Sourdough Discard English Muffins! This recipe is special not just because of its simplicity but also because it transforms what would be waste into something delightful. With every bite, you’re sure to taste the love and care that goes into homemade cooking. Enjoy your culinary adventure and share these beauties with family and friends—you’ll be so glad you did!