Name: Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup all purpose flour (30 grams); 2 Tbsp granulated sugar; 1 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil (125 ml); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams); Zest of 2 lemons; 1 tsp lemon extract (optional); 1/2 cup buttermilk (125 ml); 1/4 cup lemon juice (63 ml); 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups all purpose flour, using the fluff, scoop, and level method (250 grams)

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If you have a soft spot for bright, zesty treats that feel both comforting and fresh, this Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These muffins are bursting with real lemon flavor, perfectly balanced by a tender crumb and topped with a buttery, sweet streusel that adds just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re baking for a brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or simply craving a homemade delight, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface, including a white bowl in the center filled with white flour mixed with small piles of brown and white spices; surrounding it on a wooden board are halved and whole bright yellow lemons with a few scattered blueberries. To the left, a wooden bowl is filled with dark frozen blueberries, below it a small wooden bowl of dark vanilla extract, and a beige bowl filled with white sugar. To the right, there is a wooden bowl with brown sugar, a glass bowl with light yellow butter cubes, a small glass pitcher of cream or milk, and a beige bowl filled with cottage cheese. Two white eggs lie above the central bowl, while a few extra blueberries and lemon zest rest scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe plays a crucial role. From the tang of fresh lemon zest and juice to the rich texture added by buttermilk and oil, everything works together in harmony to deliver flavorful, moist muffins crowned with a crumbly, sweet topping.

All purpose flour (30 grams for streusel + 250 grams for batter): Using the fluff, scoop, and level method ensures the perfect amount for light muffins.
Granulated sugar (2 Tbsp for streusel + 150 grams for batter): Sweetness that balances the lemon and adds caramelized crunch to the topping.
Unsalted butter (1 Tbsp, room temperature): Provides richness and helps create the crumbly streusel topping.
Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and add moisture for a tender crumb.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps muffins moist and tender without weighing them down.
Zest of 2 lemons: The heart of the recipe, delivering fresh citrus brightness with every bite.
Lemon extract (optional, 1 tsp): Enhances lemon flavor for an extra zing.
Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Adds tang and reacts with baking soda to help muffins rise perfectly.
Lemon juice (1/4 cup): Intensifies fresh lemon flavor and tenderizes the crumb.
Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps muffins rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Reacts with buttermilk and lemon juice for lift and crumb texture.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances and enhances all the sweet and tangy flavors in the muffins.

How to Make Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F. Line your muffin pan with paper liners to ensure easy cleanup and perfect-shaped muffins. This simple step sets the foundation for baking success.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

Combine the flour, sugar, and butter with your fingers until the mixture becomes dry and crumbly. This simple technique creates the classic streusel texture that will add an irresistible crunch to each muffin top.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and lemon zest together in a large bowl until everything blends into a smooth, fragrant mixture. This is where your muffins start to develop their moist texture and lemon punch.

Step 4: Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in the lemon extract if you’re using it, followed by the buttermilk and lemon juice. These liquids bring tanginess and tenderness, ensuring your muffins are bursting with fresh citrus flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Combine the baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then whisk them into your wet ingredients. Gently fold in the flour, mixing just until no dry flour remains. The batter will be a little lumpy, which is perfect for light, tender muffins.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Streusel

Spoon the batter into your muffin liners, filling them nice and full for big, fluffy muffins. Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping generously over each cup to create that signature crunchy finish.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20 to 23 minutes. Keep an eye on your muffins after 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center — if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the muffins are done. Small muffins bake quickly, so watch carefully!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. I absolutely love enjoying one warm, spread with a little butter—pure comfort in every bite.

How to Serve Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe

A crumbly muffin with a golden brown bottom layer and a soft, pale yellow top layer covered in white crumb topping sits on a white cake stand against a white marbled background. The muffin liner is slightly peeled and textured with some crumbs around it. The lighting is bright, highlighting the crumbly texture and soft inside of the muffin photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the tops or add a thin twist of lemon peel for a fresh visual and flavor boost. This simple touch makes your muffins look as delightful as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Streusel Muffins with a cup of strong coffee, a creamy latte, or a bright herbal tea. They also shine alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait to round out a lovely breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the muffins on a decorative cake stand garnished with fresh lemon slices and sprigs of mint. You can also offer a small ramekin of lemon curd or honey butter on the side to spread for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Lemon Streusel Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay moist and delicious for up to two days, although they’re best enjoyed fresh on the day of baking.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm muffins gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes to revive their fresh-baked charm, especially if you love them warm with butter.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to get the best results.

What if I don’t have lemon extract?

No worries! The zest and fresh lemon juice provide plenty of lemon flavor, so you can skip the extract if unavailable or just want a more natural taste.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be mindful of any adjustments the blend might require for liquid ratios.

How can I make the streusel topping crunchier?

Try adding a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the streusel mix for an extra crunchy texture and a lovely nutty note.

Are these muffins suitable for freezing after baking or before?

You can freeze them either way. Baking first then freezing is great for quick treats, but freezing the batter in a muffin tin lined with paper cups and then baking straight from frozen also works well.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about baking and sharing this Lemon Streusel Muffins Recipe. Each bite delivers bright lemon flavor, a moist crumb, and that irresistible streusel crunch that makes these muffins so special. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe invites you to bring a little sunshine and sweetness into your day. Give it a try—you might just find your next favorite go-to muffin!