Are you tired of store-bought English muffins that lack flavor and nutrition? Craving a warm, fluffy, and wholesome breakfast or snack? Then look no further! This flax English muffin recipe is the perfect solution. It’s surprisingly easy to make, packed with healthy flaxseed goodness, and tastes absolutely divine. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with this simple homemade recipe! These muffins are perfect for quick dinner ideas, a healthy meal, or a delicious addition to any brunch spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, leading to perfectly risen muffins.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the flaxseed meal and olive oil until well combined. Flaxseed meal adds a delightful nutty flavor and a boost of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the salt and 2 cups of flour to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Adding flour gradually during kneading prevents stickiness.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This crucial step allows the yeast to ferment, resulting in light and airy muffins.
Step 6: Shape the Muffins: Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball.
Step 7: Cook the Muffins: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Gently flatten each dough ball into a 3-4 inch circle. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Using a griddle ensures even cooking for perfectly browned muffins.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked muffins to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as butter, jam, avocado, or even a fried egg!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Flax English Muffins:
- Don't overwork the dough: Overkneading can lead to tough muffins.
- Use a thermometer to check water temperature: This ensures the yeast activates properly.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place: A warm oven (turned off) is ideal.
- Don't overcrowd the griddle: This will lower the temperature and result in unevenly cooked muffins.
Variations:
- Whole wheat flour: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Seeds: Add other seeds, such as sunflower seeds or sesame seeds, to the dough for extra texture and nutrients.
- Herbs: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fiber: Approximately 3-4g Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This flax English muffin recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking and the wonderful taste of these wholesome muffins. They're a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes, offering a quick dinner idea or a delightful addition to any meal. This recipe will become a staple in your healthy meal planning. Make a batch today and experience the difference!