Crumpets
Classic British griddle cakes, known for their wonderfully spongy texture and signature honeycomb of holes. Perfect for a comforting tea time treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g All-purpose flour(Sifted)
- 7 g Active dry yeast(Or 1 packet)
- 200 ml Warm milk(Around 40-45°C (105-115°F))
- 150 ml Warm water(Around 40-45°C (105-115°F))
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
- generous amount Butter(For cooking and serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and water. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant. This indicates the yeast is active.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the batter: Add the sifted flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until you have a smooth, thick batter with no lumps. Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size and bubbly.
⏱️ 1 hour - 3
Add baking soda: Gently stir the baking soda into the risen batter. The batter will become slightly thinner and more aerated. Cover again and let it rest for another 30 minutes. This second rise is crucial for the crumpets' texture.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4
Prepare for cooking: Lightly grease 12 crumpet rings (or muffin tin rings, or even clean tuna cans with bottoms removed) and place them on a lightly oiled griddle or large frying pan. Heat the griddle over medium-low heat. The temperature should be hot enough to cook the crumpets but not so hot that they burn before cooking through. Aim for around 160°C (320°F).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Cook the crumpets: Ladle the batter into the rings, filling them about two-thirds full. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on the first side, until bubbles start to appear on the surface and the edges look set. You should see small holes forming as the batter cooks.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes per crumpet - 6
Flip and finish: Carefully flip the crumpets using a spatula. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the rings and set aside on a wire rack.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes per crumpet - 7
Serve: Crumpets are best served warm. Toast them lightly if desired, then generously butter them. The butter will melt into the holes, creating a delicious, rich flavour.
⏱️ As needed
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The formation of numerous small holes is key to a classic crumpet's texture, allowing butter to soak in.
- ✓Ensure your griddle or pan is not too hot; a gentle, consistent heat is essential for even cooking.
- ✓Serve immediately after toasting and buttering for the best experience.
- ✓Crumpets are a traditional accompaniment to afternoon tea.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Top with grated cheese and grill until melted.
- Spread with Marmite or other savoury pastes before serving.
- Serve with jam or honey for a sweeter option.