The Best Gluten-Free English Muffins Ever

Name: Gluten-Free English Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons xanthan gum (Only add this if your flour blend does NOT include it already); 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tsp salt; 2 tsp instant yeast; 2 cups whole milk, warm; ¼ cup butter, melted; ¼ cup cornmeal, or more as needed

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By Wendy Stoltz, Florina Dobre / Last Modified On August 28, 2023

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Yield: 6 muffins

Gluten-Free English Muffins

Discover the unmatched superiority of Homemade Gluten-Free English Muffins that far surpass anything you can find in stores with our quick and easy recipe.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Proofing/Rising Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time 3 hours

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
1 ½ teaspoons xanthan gum (Only add this if your flour blend does NOT include it already)
1 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tsp salt
2 tsp instant yeast
2 cups whole milk, warm
¼ cup butter, melted
¼ cup cornmeal, or more as needed

Instructions

In a large bowl whisk flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Using a mixer beat in the milk and melted butter for 5 minutes or until the dough comes together.
Place the dough into a well-greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Place the dough in a warm area for 2 hours.
Once the dough is ready and has doubled in size, roll on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Cut round with a cookie cutter or a round glass. Sprinkle the cornmeal on waxed paper and place the dough rounds on top. Dust the tops with cornmeal, cover, and let it rise for 30 minutes.
Heat a greased skillet over medium heat. Cook the muffins on the hot skillet until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes per side, until they get golden brown.
Remove the muffins from the skillet and allow them to cool fully before splitting and toasting.

Notes

This should work with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, but we suggest using a rice flour-based one to get light and airy English muffins. Bob's Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour, King Arthur Measure for Measure Flour, and Cup 4 Cup are good options, as are either of our DIY flour blends.
Add xanthan gum to this recipe only if the flour blend you use doesn't already have some. The options listed above include xanthan gum already. We have not tested this recipe using other gums or alternatives to Xantham.
Depending on how many you can comfortably fit in your skillet, you will likely need to cook these in batches. Plan for 15 minutes per batch.
To get "nooks and crannies," you want to fork-split the English muffins rather than slicing them. (store-bought English muffins typically come like this already. Simply take a regular fork and poke deep holes into the side of each muffin all the way around. Then gently tear through those perforations.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1 English Muffin
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 148Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 873mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 1gSugar: 6gProtein: 4g

This nutrition info is based on the exact ingredients and brands that I used a the time. It may not be 100% accurate. Please check your ingredients nutrition labels.

Watch our instructional video on how to make these gluten-free English muffins:

Discover the unmatched superiority of Homemade Gluten-Free English Muffins that far surpass anything you can find in stores. With our quick and easy recipe, you can savor the incomparable satisfaction of creating these delectable treats in the comfort of your own kitchen.

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Table of Contents

Gluten-Free English Muffins Recipe

A warm, toasted gluten-free English muffin spread with butter and jam is one of the little things in life that brings so much joy.

It's like toast but somehow more special. English muffins are dense and light simultaneously, with craggy bits that crisp up in the toaster and pockets of air that hold on to every bit of that butter you spread on. It's the nooks and crannies that make a perfect English muffin for me!

If you've been looking, you probably noticed that there are a few different types of gluten-free English Muffin recipes available out there. The main difference that I notice is that some of them start with a loose batter and are cooked in molds, while others like this one are made using heavier dough that is shaped by hand.

The recipes that use a batter are actually more of what I would expect a gluten-free crumpet recipe to look like.

This easy-to-handle soft dough recipe means that you won't need any fancy equipment to make perfectly round and thick gluten-free English Muffins. You just need a rolling pin and a biscuit cutter. This recipe is super easy once you get the method down.

This recipe for gluten-free English muffins is egg-free and can be converted into a dairy-free one very easily.

Why You’re Going to Love These Gluten-Free English Muffins

No oven required - The best part about making GF English Muffins? You don't even need to turn on the oven! These are cooked entirely on the stovetop.

Soft and flavorful texture - Using milk in the dough gives these GF English muffins a soft and smooth texture, while adding melted butter adds richness and flavor.

Easy to make and handle - This recipe utilizes a soft dough that is easy to handle and shape, requiring only a rolling pin and a biscuit cutter, making it a simple and fuss-free process.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free English Muffins

All-purpose Gluten-Free Flour - We like to make these recipes so that you have options for the type of flour you use to make them. For breads, the flour that will give results most similar to wheat flour is a general all-purpose baking flour that is meant to be used in a 1:1 ratio. Some examples include Bob's Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour, King Arthur Measure for Measure Flour, and Cup 4 Cup Gluten Free Flour. You can also mix up your own gluten-free flour blend using our recipe.

Xantham Gum - If your flour blend does not have this in it already, you'll want to add some. This is what gives gluten-free doughs stretch and allows them to hold together. I have not tried it with potato starch yet.

Sugar and Salt - Flour blends don't have any flavor on their own, so we have to give them a little help.

Instant Yeast - This recipe was developed using instant yeast, so that's what you should use. We haven't tested it with regular yeast.

Milk - Using milk as the liquid in this English muffin dough is part of what gives these gluten-free English muffins their soft texture. You want the milk to be warmed to about 105°F, or slightly higher than body temperature. This will activate the yeast quickly.

Melted Butter - To add richness and more flavor. Unsalted butter is best.

Cornmeal - Adding this coarsely ground corn to the bottoms of the English muffins keeps them from sticking to the pan.

To make this recipe dairy free, use your favorite plant-based milk and butter instead of the dairy items here.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free English Muffins

Large bowl - Use a large bowl to mix and combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.

Whisk or spoon - Use a whisk or spoon to thoroughly blend the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together in the bowl.

Hand mixer or stand mixer - A hand mixer fitted with dough hook beaters or a stand mixer can be used to mix the dough until it comes together.

Rolling pin - A rolling pin is needed to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.

Round cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or glass - Use a round cutter or glass to cut out the English muffin circles from the rolled-out dough.

Sheet pan - Prepare a sheet pan by lining it with wax paper for placing the dough rounds.

Skillet or griddle - Heat a large skillet or griddle on the stovetop to cook the English muffins.

Spatula - A spatula is useful for flipping English muffins during cooking.

Cooling rack - Place the cooked English muffins on a cooling rack to cool before splitting and serving.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free English Muffins, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

HOW TO MAKE GLUTEN-FREE ENGLISH MUFFINS

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
Add the milk and melted butter, and mix using a hand mixer fitted with dough hook beaters for about 5 minutes or until the dough comes together. You could also accomplish this in a stand mixer. The dough should be uniform but fairly wet. This is exactly what you want!
Place the dough into a well-greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm area for 2 hours.
Once the dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about a half-inch thick.
Use a round cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or glass to cut out circles. You can press the scraps together and make circles out of them after your first round of cut-outs.
Cover a sheet pan with wax paper and sprinkle the paper with some of the cornmeal. Place the dough rounds on top, and sprinkle with additional cornmeal. Cover the tray and let the English muffins rise for 30 minutes.
Heat a large skillet (cast iron is the best for this) over medium heat. Grease the pan lightly with butter or oil, and then sprinkle the surface with cornmeal. Add the English muffins and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. You will need to cook these in batches, so be sure to clean out the pan in between.
Remove the muffins from the skillet and allow them to cool fully before splitting with a fork and enjoying.

These numbered steps match the numbered photos above and are for illustration purposes. For the complete list of ingredients and instructions, please see the recipe below.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free English Muffins

Add xanthan gum to the dough - If your flour blend doesn't already contain xanthan gum, make sure to add it. This ingredient helps provide structure and elasticity to gluten-free doughs.

Allow the dough to rise sufficiently - Letting the dough rise for the recommended time allows the yeast to work and develop flavor, resulting in lighter and tastier English muffins.

Use a well-greased skillet or griddle - To prevent sticking, generously grease the cooking surface with butter or oil before cooking the English muffins. This ensures a golden and crispy exterior.

Cook on medium heat and avoid flipping too soon - Cook the muffins on medium heat to achieve an even browning. Resist the temptation to flip them too early; wait until the first side is golden brown and cooked through before flipping.

Fork splitting the muffins when cooled - To achieve the traditional nooks and crannies, use a fork to gently split the cooled English muffins. This creates texture and allows for better absorption of spreads and fillings.

Toast or warm before serving - For the best texture and flavor, toast the English muffins before serving. This brings out their crispiness and enhances the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are They Called English Muffins?

English muffins are called so because they originated in England and have been a popular breakfast item in English cuisine for many years. The term "muffin" in England traditionally refers to a type of bread product that is flat, round, and typically served split and toasted.

The name "English muffin" is used to differentiate this particular muffin style from other types of muffins, such as American-style sweet muffins. The term "English" indicates its association with the traditional English recipe and preparation method.

What Are The Differences Between Gluten-Free English Muffins Vs. Crumpets?

Gluten-free English muffins and crumpets, while similar in some ways, have distinct differences that set them apart. English muffins are typically made with a denser, bread-like dough that is shaped by hand and cooked on a stovetop, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. On the other hand, crumpets are made from a loose batter that is poured into molds and cooked on a griddle, giving them a spongy texture with characteristic holes on the top.

CAN YOU BUY GLUTEN-FREE ENGLISH MUFFINS AT THE STORE?

You have a few options if you're looking to buy gluten-free English muffins at the grocery store or online. Some options include:

Making your own homemade English muffins with gluten-free flour, yeast, and a few other common ingredients is not only a less expensive option, but it's also the most delicious one. No store-bought muffin will ever taste as good as the ones you're about to make.

How Do You Get The Nooks And Crannies? WHAT DOES FORK SPLIT MEAN?

To get "nooks and crannies," you want to fork-split the English muffins rather than slicing them with a knife. Store-bought English muffins typically come like this already. Simply take a regular fork and poke deep holes into the side of each muffin all the way around. Then gently tear through those perforations.

CAN I MAKE ENGLISH MUFFINS ON A GRIDDLE?

Yes, you can use any large skillet or griddle that you like to cook on. If you use a griddle, you may be able to cook the whole batch simultaneously. I like to use seasoned cast iron to make these, as it retains heat really well and gives the muffins a beautifully browned crust.

Do I Need English Muffin Rings To Make Gluten-Free English Muffins?

No, you do not necessarily need muffin rings to make gluten-free English muffins. While some recipes may call for rings to help shape the muffins into a round, uniform shape, it is totally optional. Instead, the dough is rolled out and cut into circles using a round cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or even a glass. The lack of rings does not affect the taste or texture of the muffins, and you can still achieve delicious gluten-free English muffins without them.

How Do I Store Gluten-Free English Muffins?

You can store them in two ways, depending on when you plan to eat them:

Room Temperature Storage - If you plan to consume the English muffins within a day or two, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing them to prevent moisture buildup. However, note that gluten-free baked goods tend to stale faster than their gluten-containing counterparts, so it's best to consume them sooner rather than later.
Refrigeration - For longer storage, you can refrigerate gluten-free English muffins. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store them in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain their freshness for up to 4-5 days. Before consuming, you can toast or warm them to restore their texture and flavor.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free English Muffins?

Yes, gluten-free English muffins freeze very well. Freeze them when they are fresh so that they'll be fresh when you enjoy them later.

Fork split the muffins, then wrap them individually with plastic wrap. Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer bag or container, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To thaw, remove the frozen English muffin from the wrapping and microwave for 15 seconds or so until it's no longer solid. Then toast it up and enjoy!

Can You Make These Gluten-Free English Muffins Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can; you have two options:

Freezing - Once the English muffins have cooled completely, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in airtight freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them briefly until they are no longer frozen. Toast them to bring back their crispiness and enjoy.
Refrigerating - If you plan to consume the English muffins within a few days, you can store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 4-5 days. To serve, you can toast or warm them in an oven before enjoying them.

What Can I Eat These English Muffins With?

English muffins are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious suggestions for what to eat with English muffins:

Classic breakfast sandwiches - Slice open the English muffin, toast it, and fill it with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or ham, and melted cheese for a satisfying breakfast cuisine.
Butter and jam - Spread some butter and your favorite jam or preserves on a toasted English muffin for a simple and delightful treat.
Eggs Benedict - Top a toasted English muffin with a poached egg, Canadian bacon or smoked salmon, and Hollandaise sauce for a fancy brunch dish.
Avocado and eggs - Mash ripe avocado onto a toasted English muffin and top it with a fried or poached egg, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and maybe a dash of hot sauce for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack.
Tuna or chicken salad sandwich - Make a tasty sandwich by filling a split English muffin with your favorite tuna or chicken salad, along with some lettuce and tomato slices.
Mini pizzas - Top a toasted English muffin with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a quick and easy mini pizza.
Open-faced melts - Toast an English muffin, and add sliced deli meats like turkey or ham, cheese, and any desired toppings. Place under the broiler until the cheese melts and the toppings are heated through.

These are just a few ideas to get you started but feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite spreads, toppings, and fillings to suit your taste preferences.