Keto English Muffins (Microwave) Recipe

Light, airy low-carb English muffins ready in minutes with a perfect crumb for soaking up butter or holding your favorite keto-friendly sandwich fillings.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
2 mins
Serves:
1 muffin
Overhead shot of golden-brown keto English muffins split in half, revealing their characteristic nooks and crannies under soft natural lighting. A pat of melting butter glistens in the crevices of one half while another displays a spread of avocado. The muffins rest on a rustic wooden board alongside scattered almond flour, a small ramekin of cream cheese, and a steaming cup of coffee, creating warm color contrasts between the toasty exterior and the pale interior crumb. Steam wisps rise from the freshly split muffins, emphasizing their warm, just-cooked appeal.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">28g almond flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large egg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">14g cream cheese, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">7g butter, melted</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Microwave</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Microwave-safe ramekin or mug (10-12cm diameter)</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Fork or small whisk</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a microwave-safe ramekin or mug, melt the butter for about 10-15 seconds. This creates a non-stick surface and adds richness to your muffin.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the softened cream cheese to the melted butter and mix until smooth and well combined. The fats in both ingredients are essential for creating a tender crumb structure in the absence of gluten.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Crack the egg into the mixture and whisk vigorously with a fork until fully incorporated. The egg provides structure and helps the muffin rise by trapping air bubbles when heated.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the almond flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix until you have a smooth, thick batter with no lumps. The baking powder will react with the heat to create carbon dioxide bubbles, helping develop those classic English muffin nooks and crannies.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Smooth the top of the batter with the back of a spoon. Microwave on high for 90 seconds. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave's power, so start checking at 90 seconds. The muffin is done when it has risen and feels firm to the touch.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Allow the muffin to cool for 1-2 minutes, then carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Gently remove from the container and let it cool for another minute on a wire rack.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>For the authentic English muffin experience, split the muffin in half horizontally using a fork rather than a knife. This preserves the nooks and crannies that are perfect for catching melted butter or other toppings.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>For extra flavor and texture, toast the split halves in a pan with a little butter or in a toaster until golden and crisp. Serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly toppings like butter, sugar-free jam, or avocado.</li></ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I make these low-carb English muffins without a microwave?

Yes, you can bake these in an oven instead! Pour the batter into a greased oven-safe ramekin and bake at 180°C for about 10-12 minutes until golden and set. The texture might be slightly different, but they'll still have those lovely nooks and crannies you're looking for.

Why does my microwave muffin collapse after cooking?

Collapsing typically happens when there's too much moisture or not enough structure. Ensure you're measuring the almond flour correctly, using room temperature ingredients, and letting the muffin cool slightly before removing it from the container. Also check that your baking powder is fresh.

What are the best toppings for microwave English muffins on a keto diet?

Keto-friendly toppings include butter, sugar-free jam, avocado, nut butters, cream cheese, smoked salmon, bacon, eggs, and cheese. For a sweet version, try cinnamon with a keto-friendly sweetener, or make a breakfast sandwich with eggs, cheese, and bacon.

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