Crumpet Recipe

Oh, crumpets! If you’ve never had one fresh off the griddle, you’re in for an absolute treat. These warm, fluffy little rounds are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and full of those signature little holes just waiting to soak up all the butter, jam, or honey you can drizzle on. Whether you’re enjoying them for a cozy weekend breakfast or a leisurely afternoon tea, homemade crumpets are simple to make and so much better than store-bought. Trust me, once you try them warm with a pat of melting butter, you’ll never look back.

Why You’ll Love Crumpets

Simple Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly cozy about a batch of homemade crumpets. They’re unfussy, familiar, and totally comforting.

Perfect for Spreads: Thanks to their spongey texture and iconic holes, crumpets are basically little flavor sponges—ideal for soaking up butter, jam, or even savory toppings like cheese or avocado.

Easy to Make: No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques here. If you’ve got flour, yeast, and a pan, you’re already most of the way there.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make a big batch and toast them up through the week. Breakfast = sorted.

Totally Customizable: Enjoy them sweet or savory, toasted or fresh, with butter, eggs, jam, or your favorite spread. They’re endlessly versatile!

Ingredients in Crumpets

These classic British griddle breads come together with just a few humble ingredients.

All-Purpose Flour

The foundation of the batter, creating structure and softness in every bite.

Active Dry Yeast

This is what gives crumpets their airy, bubbly texture and helps them rise during cooking.

Warm Water & Milk

A mix of warm water and milk activates the yeast and gives the batter just the right consistency. The milk adds richness and tenderness.

Sugar

Just a touch to feed the yeast and bring a subtle sweetness to the dough.

Salt

Balances the flavors and gives the crumpets depth.

Baking Powder (Optional)

Sometimes used for extra lift, especially if you’re cooking the batter soon after mixing.

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine the warm water, milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, or until it’s frothy and bubbly. This step is key to waking up the yeast and ensuring your crumpets rise properly.

Make the Batter

Add the flour and salt to a large bowl, then pour in the activated yeast mixture. Whisk or beat the mixture until you have a smooth, thick batter—similar to pancake batter but slightly thicker. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until bubbly and doubled in size.

Add Baking Powder (Optional)

Once the batter has risen, stir in a little baking powder for an extra boost of puffiness. Let the batter sit for another 5 minutes while you preheat your pan.

Heat Your Griddle or Pan

Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-low. Place crumpet rings (or clean metal cookie cutters) onto the pan and grease them as well.

Cook the Crumpets

Spoon batter into each ring until about halfway full. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the top of the crumpets are covered with bubbles and the edges are set. Carefully remove the rings, flip the crumpets, and cook for 1–2 more minutes to lightly brown the tops.

Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove the crumpets from the pan and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, toasted, or at room temperature with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10–12 crumpets
Calories per serving: ~120 (varies based on size and toppings)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 35 minutes

How to Serve Crumpets

Toasted with Butter: The classic. Toast them lightly and let the butter melt into all those dreamy holes.

With Jam or Honey: Sweet toppings like berry jam, marmalade, or honey turn crumpets into a delightful breakfast or tea-time snack.

Savory Style: Try them with avocado, soft scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, or melted cheese for a savory twist.

Tea Party Vibe: Serve crumpets alongside scones and tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Freezer Friendly: Crumpets freeze beautifully—just pop them in the toaster straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy.

Additional Tips

Use Crumpet Rings: These help keep that perfect round shape and give you the height you’re looking for. No rings? Use cleaned tuna cans with both ends removed!

Don’t Rush the Cook Time: Low and slow is the way to go. This helps the bubbles develop on top and gives that signature crumpet look.

Let Them Cool Before Toasting: For that ideal texture, let your crumpets cool after cooking and then toast them before eating.

Make Ahead: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make crumpets without crumpet rings?
A1: Yes, but they won’t be as tall or uniform. You can use metal cookie cutters or cleaned tuna cans as a DIY solution.

Q2: Do I have to use milk in the batter?
A2: You can use all water if you prefer, but milk gives the crumpets a slightly richer flavor and softer texture.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A3: Yes, with a good gluten-free flour blend that works well for bread-like textures. You may need to tweak the liquid ratios.

Q4: Why don’t my crumpets have bubbles on top?
A4: The pan may be too hot or the batter too thick. Try lowering the heat and letting the batter rest a bit longer before cooking.

Q5: How do I reheat crumpets?
A5: Toast them! That’s when they’re at their best—warm, slightly crispy, and ready to soak up your favorite toppings.

Q6: Can I freeze crumpets?
A6: Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer, then store in a zip-top bag. Toast directly from frozen.

Q7: What kind of yeast should I use?
A7: Active dry yeast works perfectly, but you can also use instant yeast—just skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the flour.

Q8: Why are my crumpets gummy inside?
A8: They may be undercooked or the heat too high. Cook longer on lower heat and make sure they set fully before flipping.

Q9: Can I add flavorings to the batter?
A9: Sure! A pinch of cinnamon, some grated cheese, or even a handful of herbs can be delicious additions.

Q10: Are crumpets the same as English muffins?
A10: Not quite—crumpets are softer, have more open holes on top, and are cooked only on one side before a quick flip.

Conclusion

Homemade crumpets are one of those cozy, satisfying treats that make any morning feel a little more special. With their golden, crisp bottoms and soft, spongy centers full of buttery nooks and crannies, they’re as delicious as they are nostalgic. Whether you’re topping them with something sweet, something savory, or just enjoying them plain with a cup of tea, this crumpet recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. So fire up the griddle, get that batter bubbling, and enjoy the magic of fresh crumpets—made from scratch, just the way you like them.

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