James Martin’s Crumpets are a classic British teatime treat with a soft, spongy texture and characteristic holes perfect for soaking up butter or jam. This recipe offers a homemade version of the store-bought favorite, providing an authentic taste of British comfort food.
What are James Martin Crumpets?
James Martin’s Crumpets are light and airy griddle cakes made from a yeast-based batter. These crumpets are cooked slowly on a stovetop, allowing the signature holes to form on the surface. They’re delicious when served warm with butter, jam, or honey.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Authentic flavor: Homemade crumpets taste fresher and better than store-bought.
- Simple ingredients: Use pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile: Serve sweet or savory, depending on your preference.
- Fun to make: Watching the signature holes form is satisfying.
- Perfect for teatime: A traditional British snack everyone loves.
Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Crumpets
- Plain flour – 250g, for the batter base.
- Milk – 300ml, warmed, to activate the yeast.
- Water – 150ml, warm, for the batter consistency.
- Dried yeast – 1 teaspoon, for leavening.
- Caster sugar – 1 teaspoon, to feed the yeast.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon, for extra rise.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon, for flavor.
- Butter – For greasing and serving.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Frying pan or griddle
- Metal crumpet rings (4-6)
- Spatula
Instructions to Make James Martin Crumpets
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, water, yeast, and sugar. Stir well and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a separate bowl, mix the plain flour and salt.
- Gradually whisk the frothy yeast mixture into the flour until a smooth batter forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the batter rest for 1 hour in a warm place, allowing it to rise and become bubbly.
Step 3: Add the Baking Powder
- Stir the baking powder into the risen batter. The mixture should be thick but pourable; adjust with a little water if necessary.
Step 4: Heat the Pan and Grease the Rings
- Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Grease the pan and the inside of the crumpet rings with butter.
Step 5: Cook the Crumpets
- Place the greased crumpet rings on the pan. Pour the batter into the rings, filling each about halfway.
- Cook gently for 5–7 minutes, until the surface is set and bubbles form holes.
- Remove the rings carefully, then flip the crumpets and cook for 1–2 minutes on the other side until lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- Serve the crumpets warm, topped with butter, jam, honey, or any spread of your choice.
What Goes Well With James Martin Crumpets
- Butter and jam: A classic, simple topping.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness.
- Cheese: For a savory twist.
- Marmite: A quintessentially British pairing.
- Clotted cream and fruit compote: For an indulgent treat.
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese: A gourmet option.
Expert Tips for Making the Best James Martin Crumpets
- Warm the milk and water: Ensures the yeast activates properly.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allow the batter to rest fully for the best texture.
- Use low heat: Prevents the crumpets from burning before cooking through.
- Grease the rings well: Makes removing the crumpets easier.
- Reheat leftovers: Toasting leftover crumpets enhances their flavor.
Easy Variations of James Martin Crumpets
- Whole wheat crumpets: Replace half the plain flour with whole wheat flour.
- Herb-infused: Add chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Spiced crumpets: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming flavor.
- Cheesy crumpets: Sprinkle grated cheese on the batter before flipping.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a coeliac-friendly version.
Best Practices to Store James Martin Crumpets
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Best Practices to Reheat James Martin Crumpets
- Toaster: Toast until warm and lightly crispy.
- Oven: Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 5–7 minutes.
Nutrition Value (per crumpet)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
Final Words
James Martin’s Crumpets are a delightful homemade treat that brings the comfort of a traditional British snack to your table. With their signature holes and spongy texture, these crumpets are perfect for any occasion.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the taste of authentic crumpets fresh from your kitchen!
More By British Baking Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Pear and Ginger Cake
- Mary Berry Frangipane Mince Pies
- Jamie Oliver Poached Chicken Pie
- Gordon Ramsay Chicken Liver Pate
James Martin Crumpets
- Prep Time: 75
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes 6-8 crumpets
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
James Martin’s Crumpets are light and airy griddle cakes made from a yeast-based batter. These crumpets are cooked slowly on a stovetop, allowing the signature holes to form on the surface. They’re delicious when served warm with butter, jam, or honey.
Ingredients
- Plain flour – 250g, for the batter base.
- Milk – 300ml, warmed, to activate the yeast.
- Water – 150ml, warm, for the batter consistency.
- Dried yeast – 1 teaspoon, for leavening.
- Caster sugar – 1 teaspoon, to feed the yeast.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon, for extra rise.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon, for flavor.
- Butter – For greasing and serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, water, yeast, and sugar. Stir well and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a separate bowl, mix the plain flour and salt.
- Gradually whisk the frothy yeast mixture into the flour until a smooth batter forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the batter rest for 1 hour in a warm place, allowing it to rise and become bubbly.
Step 3: Add the Baking Powder
- Stir the baking powder into the risen batter. The mixture should be thick but pourable; adjust with a little water if necessary.
Step 4: Heat the Pan and Grease the Rings
- Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Grease the pan and the inside of the crumpet rings with butter.
Step 5: Cook the Crumpets
- Place the greased crumpet rings on the pan. Pour the batter into the rings, filling each about halfway.
- Cook gently for 5–7 minutes, until the surface is set and bubbles form holes.
- Remove the rings carefully, then flip the crumpets and cook for 1–2 minutes on the other side until lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- Serve the crumpets warm, topped with butter, jam, honey, or any spread of your choice.
