How to make crumpets

Once you know how easy it is to make crumpets you’ll want them all the time. You might think creating all those distinctive tiny holes on the surface while still achieving a crispy base involves some complicated process. But crumpets really are super easy to make. You might think of them as traditionally being covered in sweet toppings, but they are perfect for savoury toppings too.

A mixture of wheat and potato flour make these homemade crumpets lighter than the store bought version. Though they seem like a “bread” – having both flour and yeast, no kneading is necessary. All those gorgeous pores on the top of crumpets are perfect are perfect for soaking up your favourite topping, both sweet and savoury.

The real secret to this recipe is using time in your favour. Just like my overnight bread, if you make this batter before you go to bed – you’ll get a superior result. A slow prove in the fridge overnight will create a tastier crumpet. Add the baking powder just before you cook them in the morning, you’ll get a delightfully light, but crispy crumpet.

A crumpet ring causes them to rise in a well-formed column and aids the signature pores develop on the flat surface, but transferring heat up the sides. If you want crumpets but have no rings, egg rings and cookie cutters can work.

You might be tempted to use a small can (or tin), but be aware these are often lined with a plastic, sometimes just in the seam, which you don’t want to let leach into your crumpet when it heats.

Homemade Crumpets

Ingredients:

• 200ml oat milk or plant-based milk of choice
• 200ml water
• 200g plain flour or 100g each plain flour and wholemeal spelt flour
• 200g potato flour
• 7g dried yeast
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp baking powder

Method:

In a mixing bowl add all ingredients except baking powder and stir until you have a smooth batter. Cover with a clean tea towel and set aside for 40-60 minutes put in the fridge over night (which I prefer as I don’t want to wait in the morning and I think it makes a better flavoured batter).

When you’re ready to make crumpets

Pre-heat a skillet or frying pan on a medium heat. Grease the surface and crumpet rings.

Stir the baking powder into the crumpet batter. Use a 1/4 cup measure or ladle to pour the crumpet batter into the rings.

Air bubbles will form and pop creating the pores. When the surface is lightly set, remove the ring and flip to cook the top.