English muffins are a standard part of many people’s breakfasts, but this wasn’t always the case. Despite the name, this food is more American than British in origin, and its history dates back over 100 years. Read on to learn about the story behind the food.

A Brief History of the English Muffin

Overview

First, a quick description of this tasty food. English muffins are known and marketed for their cratered interior, or “nooks and crannies,” caused by tiny air pockets in the dough when baking. For breakfast aficionados, this is their main attraction — butter, jam, or other spreads seep into these cavities for maximum flavor. English muffins are similar to an older food, the crumpet. Crumpets, however, are flatter and pockmarked on their topsides, while English muffins are typically split in half with a fork, revealing these marks in their center. They can also be stacked with savory ingredients like eggs, meats, or veggies for a lunchtime sandwich.

Invented by an Englishman in America

English muffins originated in the late 1800s, with the name first recorded in 1894. They were invented by Samuel Bath Thomas, an Englishman living in New York City, as an upscale “toaster crumpet.” Despite Thomas’s British roots and the food’s British-inspired name, English muffins are wholly American in their scope of popularity; they didn’t make their way across the pond until the 1990s. From New York, the breakfast food spread to other parts of the country, quickly becoming a favorite in households across the United States.

If you’re seeking a locale for delicious breakfast, try Belgian Waffle & Pancake House in Branson, MO. A favorite of both locals and visitors, it’s the best place around to grab brunch, enjoy a healthy serving of pancakes, and, of course, feast on English muffins. Learn more today by visiting them online or calling (417) 334-8484.