Easy English Muffin Bread – No Knead, Perfect for Toasting
Introduction
English muffin bread is one of those magical recipes that delivers big flavor with very little effort. Inspired by the classic English muffin—with its soft interior, signature nooks and crannies, and slightly chewy texture—this bread captures all those qualities in a simple loaf form. Best of all, it requires no kneading, no special equipment, and no shaping skills. If you can stir ingredients in a bowl, you can make this bread.
This loaf is designed specifically for toasting. Once sliced and toasted, it develops crisp edges while the inside stays tender and full of airy pockets, perfect for catching melted butter, honey, or jam. It’s ideal for busy home bakers, beginners, or anyone who wants homemade bread without the time commitment of traditional yeast doughs.
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf)
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 43°C / 110°F)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
- Cornmeal, for dusting the pan
Why This Recipe Works
This English muffin bread relies on a high-hydration batter rather than a traditional dough. The loose consistency allows yeast to create large air bubbles during the rise, which form the iconic nooks and crannies. Because the batter is too soft to knead, simple mixing is enough to develop structure. Baking it in a loaf pan ensures an even rise and an easy shape.
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Generously grease an 8½ × 4½-inch (22 × 11 cm) loaf pan with butter or oil. Sprinkle the bottom and sides with cornmeal. This not only prevents sticking but also gives the bread that authentic English muffin texture and flavor.
Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Stir well to distribute everything evenly. Make sure the yeast and salt are well mixed into the flour so they don’t come into direct contact with each other in concentrated spots.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the warm milk, warm water, and melted butter (or oil). Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, stir vigorously for about 1 minute. The batter will be sticky and thick—somewhere between cake batter and bread dough. This is exactly what you want.
There is no kneading involved. The mixing alone activates the gluten enough to give the bread structure.
Step 4: First Rise
Scoop the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top lightly with a spatula. Sprinkle a little extra cornmeal over the surface if desired.
Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free area and let it rise for 45–60 minutes, or until the batter has risen just above the rim of the pan and looks bubbly on the surface.
This rise is essential for creating the airy interior.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
While the bread is rising, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). A properly heated oven ensures a strong oven spring, helping the bread rise even more during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Once the bread has risen, remove the cover and place the pan in the center of the oven. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Cool Properly
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
This step is important. Cutting the bread while it’s hot can cause the inside to become gummy. Letting it cool fully allows the crumb to set properly.
How to Slice and Toast
For best results, slice the bread with a serrated knife. The slices should be about 1½ cm (½ inch) thick.
Toast until golden and crisp. The heat opens up the nooks and crannies, making this bread perfect for butter, jam, peanut butter, or even savory toppings like eggs and cheese.
Serving Ideas
- Classic: Butter and strawberry jam
- Breakfast: Toasted with eggs and avocado
- Sweet: Honey, cinnamon sugar, or marmalade
- Savory: Cream cheese, smoked salmon, or melted cheddar
Tips for Success
- Use instant yeast: This recipe is designed for instant yeast, which doesn’t need proofing
- Do not overmix: Stir just until combined
- Let it rise fully: A good rise equals better texture
- Toast before eating: This bread truly shines when toasted
Variations
- Whole wheat version: Replace 1 cup of flour with whole wheat flour
- Honey bread: Substitute sugar with honey
- Cinnamon swirl: Add a cinnamon-sugar layer before baking
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and oil
Storage and Freezing
Store the cooled loaf in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze. Toast slices directly from frozen for a fresh-baked taste anytime.
Conclusion
Easy English muffin bread is the perfect solution for anyone who loves the flavor and texture of English muffins but wants the simplicity of a loaf. With no kneading, minimal ingredients, and incredible toasting quality, this bread is a must-try for home bakers of all levels. Once you make it, it’s guaranteed to become a breakfast favorite in your kitchen.