Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sourdough Discard English Muffins Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 36 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 muffins
  • Category: Breakfast, Bread
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, British
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Sourdough Discard English Muffins recipe transforms leftover sourdough starter into delicious, homemade English muffins with a soft, chewy texture and signature nooks and crannies. Cooked on the stovetop, these muffins are perfect for breakfast or brunch and offer a delightful tang and comforting warmth that pairs wonderfully with butter and jam.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Cornmeal for dusting


Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, instant yeast, warm milk, and melted unsalted butter. Mix everything together until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead for about 5 minutes.
  3. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape the Muffins: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to approximately 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out rounds from the dough.
  5. Second Rise: Place the dough rounds on a baking sheet dusted generously with cornmeal. Sprinkle more cornmeal on top of the rounds. Cover loosely and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Cook on Stovetop: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the muffins for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
  7. Cool and Serve: Transfer the cooked muffins to a wire rack to cool slightly. Split each muffin with a fork to reveal the signature nooks and crannies, and toast before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • These English muffins can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before toasting and serving.
  • For a deeper sourdough flavor, allow the dough to rise overnight in the refrigerator before shaping.
  • Always split English muffins with a fork to preserve the unique texture and nooks that hold butter and spreads beautifully.