Lemon muffins with streusel topping are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, with a delightful crumbly topping that adds an irresistible crunch. If you’ve been searching for the ultimate lemon muffin recipe, you’re in the right place! This guide goes beyond the basics to provide you with expert tips, a detailed step-by-step process, and even common mistakes to avoid. Let’s get baking!
What Are Lemon Muffins with Streusel Topping?
Lemon muffins with streusel topping are soft, moist muffins bursting with fresh lemon flavor, topped with a sweet, crumbly streusel. These muffins make a fantastic breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or even a delightful dessert.
Key Features of This Recipe:
- Bright citrus flavor – Thanks to fresh lemon juice and zest
- Perfectly moist texture – Achieved with yogurt and butter
- Sweet, crunchy topping – A buttery streusel that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps
Materials Needed
To make this recipe even easier, here’s a detailed table of all the ingredients and tools you’ll need:
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp | |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | |
| Wet Ingredients | Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large | |
| Yogurt (plain or Greek) | 3/4 cup | |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup | |
| Lemon zest | 1 tbsp | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | |
| Streusel Topping | Brown sugar | 1/3 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup | |
| Unsalted butter (cold) | 1/4 cup |
Tools Needed:
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Zester
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and flour.
- Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside in the fridge while preparing the muffins.
2. Make the Muffin Batter
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, yogurt, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
- Gradually combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Assemble and Bake
- Fill each muffin cup 3/4 full with batter.
- Sprinkle streusel topping generously over each muffin.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
- Keep ingredients at room temperature – This ensures even mixing and a better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make muffins dense.
- Chill the streusel topping – Keeping it cold helps create a crispy topping.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Solution |
| Overmixing the batter | Stir until just combined to keep muffins fluffy. |
| Using bottled lemon juice | Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. |
| Skipping the yogurt | Yogurt adds moisture; don’t leave it out! |
| Not preheating the oven | Ensures even baking and proper rise. |
Similar Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Blueberry Lemon Muffins – Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries to the batter.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins – Stir in 1 tbsp of poppy seeds for a classic twist.
- Glazed Lemon Muffins – Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Conclusion
Lemon muffins with streusel topping are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and packed with citrusy goodness. Whether you enjoy them with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to impress. Try the recipe today and enjoy homemade muffins bursting with flavor!
