English Crumpets

The English crumpet is no longer a mysterious British tea-time treat with this delicious recipe.



Long time Studio 5 Contributor Becky Low shares her amazing taste combinations for the crumpet.
Crumpets
3 ¾ cups warm water
1 ½ teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons baking powder
4 cups flour

Add sugar to warm water and stir in yeast. When yeast is dissolved stir in remaining ingredients and whisk until frothy. Batter should be consistency of pancake batter – but not so thin it runs out from under the crumpet ring; add additional water or flour as needed to create the consistency.



Heat griddle over medium to medium-low heat. Butter crumpet rings (4-inch)* and place on hot griddle. Fill each ring with ¼ to ⅓-cup batter, do not overfill or the crumpet will be doughy. Cook until bubbles break and surface appears dry (about 5 minutes). Turn, remove rings and cook additional 1-2 minutes or until golden (NOTE: traditional Crumpets are often cooked on one side only). Remove Crumpets from pan and cool completely. Continue until all batter is used.



Serving Suggestions:
Plain Crumpets are bland – which compliments toppings. Crumpets are about texture and toppings. Be bold and try them with different toppings:
Butter and jam or honey (common and traditional)
Honey butter and fresh raspberries
2-3 fresh tarragon leaves topped with slice of Brie Cheese, sprinkled sparingly with minced garlic. Bake or toast in oven until Brie is slightly melted.
Maple syrup, softened cream cheese and topped with chopped walnuts
Spread with blend of cream cheese and Blue cheese topped with grape jelly
Cream cheese, thin slice smoked salmon topped with scrambled eggs and chives
Pesto and cream cheese
Eggs Benedict



Notes:
Crumpets for breakfast, brunch, lunch or tea! Crumpets are a close cousin to the English Muffin. Ingredients and the method of cooking create the difference. Both have wonderful tunnels for capturing delicious butter and other toppings. Makes about 2 dozen



* Crumpets are cooked in a 4-inch ring on a hot griddle. Crumpet rings may be purchased at kitchen stores and specialty shops. Biscuit cutters are a good substit