What Is a Crumpet?
Crumpets are small, round griddled breads that are thin with a spongy texture. Crumpets are authentic British bread commonly enjoyed for breakfast (or with afternoon tea). They are also regularly enjoyed throughout the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa. You can find crumpets in many grocery stores here in the U.S. now, but they are not as common in the bread aisle as English muffins. Try making your own with this crumpet recipe from our sister site Food & Wine.
What Is an English Muffin?
English muffins are small, round, yeast-leavened bread cooked on the stovetop. In the 1800s, English muffins were created in New York after Samuel Bath Thomas moved to America from England. So while you might have considered English muffins a “British” bread, it’s actually more common here in the United States (and therefore why you see them in stores more often than crumpets). In fact, you’ll likely find them referred to as just muffins or American Muffins in the United Kingdom.
Crumpets vs. English Muffins
After the two descriptions above, you might have noticed the main similarities between crumpets and English muffins. Both are cooked on a griddle or stove top, they’re about the same size, and have craters or holes. The differences are that crumpets are always made with milk (you won’t find any milk in English muffin recipes) and are only griddled on one side, leaving one side toasted and the other soft—think sort of like a pancake’s texture, only a little more spongy. Crumpet recipes don’t require yeast and they have a looser batter. They’re also served whole, while English muffins are split. As for English muffins, they have a breadier texture and are toasted on both sides. Now that you know the differences between crumpets and English muffins, feel free to try both to see which you like best. They’re both great as a morning breakfast by enjoying toasted with butter and your favorite jam or spreads. You can also go savory by turning English muffins into mini pizzas or a classic eggs benedict.
