Crumpets are one of those timeless comfort foods that bring a little warmth to your heart and a lot of joy to your taste buds. These soft, spongy, and lightly toasted treats are perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Imagine spreading a generous dollop of butter that melts into all those little holes, maybe with a drizzle of honey or jam. Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe—it’s incredibly easy to make and will fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma!
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Why You’ll Love Crumpets
This crumpet recipe is not just a simple breakfast option—it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Classic Comfort: There’s something magical about the texture of a fresh, homemade crumpet. Soft and spongy on the inside, with a lightly crisp exterior, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for when you want something delicious without running to the store. Chances are, you already have everything you need!
- Customizable: Once you’ve mastered the basic crumpet, you can start playing around. Add herbs for a savory twist, or top with melted cheese and eggs for a filling meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special occasion, these crumpets will always impress. Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or even as a tea-time treat!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these delicious crumpets:
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of the crumpet batter, giving it that perfect texture.
- Yeast: The yeast helps the batter rise and gives the crumpets their airy, spongy texture.
- Sugar: Just a little sugar to feed the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
- Salt: A pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
- Baking Powder: This gives the crumpets a bit of extra rise, ensuring that perfect bubble-filled texture.
- Warm Milk: Adds richness to the batter and helps activate the yeast.
- Water: Used to mix the dough to the right consistency.
- Butter: A little melted butter gives crumpets a soft, rich flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into making your crumpets:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, water, and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for getting that lovely, airy texture in your crumpets.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth and thick. It should have the consistency of pancake batter.
- Let it Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes to an hour. It should double in size and become bubbly.
- Cook the Crumpets: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with butter. Place metal crumpet rings or round cookie cutters on the skillet, and spoon the batter into them. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side, or until bubbles form on the surface and the crumpets are golden brown on the bottom. Flip them over carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes to brown the other side.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the crumpets from the rings and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with butter, jam, honey, or anything else you love. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the pan, but they also freeze well for later.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
- Cook Time: [Time to cook or bake]
- Total Time: [Total time needed]
How to Serve Crumpets
Crumpets are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways. Here are some ideas to make the most of them:
- Classic Butter: Spread with a generous amount of butter that melts into all those little holes—simple but oh so satisfying.
- Jam or Honey: For a sweet touch, top with your favorite jam or a drizzle of honey.
- Cheese and Eggs: Make it a heartier meal by adding a poached egg and a little melted cheese on top.
- Avocado and Poached Eggs: Top with creamy avocado and a perfectly poached egg for a twist on the classic.
- As a Tea Time Treat: Serve them with a pot of tea for the ultimate cozy moment.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use a Thermometer: For perfect yeast activation, the milk and water should be warm but not hot—about 110°F (43°C). Too hot, and the yeast won’t activate properly.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Let the batter rise fully to get that beautiful airy texture. If you’re in a rush, you can let it rise for a shorter time, but the texture may be denser.
- Experiment with Flavors: Once you’ve mastered the basic crumpet, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, or fold in some cheese for a savory twist.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover crumpets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat in the toaster for that perfect crispy exterior.
FAQ Section
- Q1: Can I make crumpets without crumpet rings?
A1: Yes! You can use cookie cutters or even make free-form crumpets by spooning the batter directly onto the pan, but the rings help create the signature round shape and the right texture. - Q2: Can I make crumpets without yeast?
A2: Yeast is key to getting that classic spongy texture. However, you could try using baking soda instead, but the result will be a bit different. - Q3: How do I store leftover crumpets?
A3: Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat them in the toaster for that perfect crispy finish. - Q4: Can I use plant-based milk?
A4: Absolutely! Plant-based milks like almond or oat milk work just as well in this recipe. - Q5: Can I make these crumpets gluten-free?
A5: Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious! - Q6: Can I add flavors to the crumpet batter?
A6: Yes, you can add herbs, garlic powder, or even shredded cheese to the batter for a savory version. - Q7: How long should the batter rise?
A7: The batter should rise for 45 minutes to an hour, until it doubles in size and becomes bubbly. - Q8: Can I freeze crumpets?
A8: Yes! Once they’re cooked and cooled, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster when ready to eat. - Q9: Can I use self-raising flour?
A9: You can, but you may need to reduce the amount of baking powder in the recipe. Self-raising flour already contains leavening agents. - Q10: What’s the best way to reheat crumpets?
A10: Reheat crumpets in the toaster for that crispy edge, or warm them up in a skillet with a little butter for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
These homemade crumpets are the perfect balance of soft and spongy with a delightful golden crust. They’re so easy to make and totally customizable, so feel free to get creative with your toppings. Whether you keep it simple with butter and jam or go all out with cheese and eggs, you can’t go wrong. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’re going to love it!
Print
Crumpets
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 crumpets 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crumpets are a delicious British breakfast treat, light and airy with a golden crust. Perfect for toasting and topping with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Ingredients
Scale
- 150g (1 cup) white flour, plain / all purpose
- 200ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) warm water, tap water
- 1/2 tsp salt, cooking/kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp white sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Yeast Mixture:
- 1 tsp yeast, instant/rapid rise OR dry active yeast
- 1 tbsp warm water (just tap water)
- Cooking:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast and 1 tbsp of warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and the remaining warm water. Mix well until a smooth batter forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat and lightly grease with melted butter or vegetable oil.
- Place crumpet rings (or egg rings) on the pan and spoon the batter into them, filling about halfway.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the top of the crumpets starts to firm up and bubbles form on the surface. Remove the rings carefully, flip the crumpets, and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side.
- Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve hot, toasted, and topped with your favorite spreads!
Notes
- If you don’t have crumpet rings, you can use egg rings or even cook them freehand for a more rustic look.
- If the batter is too thick after rising, add a little more warm water to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
- Crumpets can be frozen and toasted when needed, making them perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crumpet
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg