Lemon Crumb Muffins
There’s something about the smell of freshly baked Lemon Crumb Muffins that instantly transports me to sunny mornings. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; it was a bright spring day, and I had a basket of citrus fruits from the farmer’s market waiting to be used. The moment I mixed the tangy lemon juice with the sweet batter, my kitchen filled with a zesty aroma that made my heart skip a beat. As I popped them into the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement, imagining how these fluffy muffins would taste.
Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple afternoon snack, these Lemon Crumb Muffins never fail to impress. They are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a crumbly topping that adds a delightful crunch. I find that they’re not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant yellow of the lemon zest against the golden muffins creates a visual appeal that’s hard to resist.
Sometimes, I whip these up to share with friends, and they always ask for the recipe! It’s such a joy to see their faces light up with delight after the first bite. These muffins are not just food; they carry memories, laughter, and warmth. So, if you’re looking for something that’s easy to make yet feels special, give these Lemon Crumb Muffins a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Recipe Snapshot
37 mins
15 mins
22 mins
Medium
220 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Frying Pan, Oven, Peeler, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
What Makes This Lemon Crumb Muffins Special
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Lemon Crumb Muffins shine in any setting, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a gathering with friends. Their versatility allows them to transition effortlessly from a morning treat to an afternoon snack.
Bright Flavor
The zest and juice of fresh lemons imbue these muffins with a bright, refreshing flavor. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite, making them a perfect pick-me-up!
Easy to Make
Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, these muffins are straightforward to put together. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, they come together quickly, making them a great choice for any skill level.
Crumbly Topping
The crumb topping adds a wonderful texture. It’s a delightful contrast to the soft, moist muffins and enhances the overall eating experience.
Customizable
You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste. Add poppy seeds for a unique twist or a sprinkle of nuts for a crunchy surprise. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Sharing
These muffins are a hit at gatherings. They disappear quickly, and everyone always wants the recipe. Sharing these treats is a great way to bond with friends and family.
Ingredients Required for Lemon Crumb Muffins

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients are key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. In this recipe for Lemon Crumb Muffins, each ingredient plays a crucial role. The combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, and eggs forms the base of these delightful muffins. The star of the show, of course, is the lemon, which adds a refreshing zing that brightens the entire batch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of these muffins, providing structure and a soft texture.
- 2 tsp baking soda: This leavening agent helps the muffins rise, making them light and fluffy.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Another leavening agent that contributes to the muffin’s height and softness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the muffins, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/2 cup oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon peel: Provides intense citrus flavor and aroma.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the flavor profile of the muffins.
- 3 tsp lemon extract: Intensifies the lemon flavor in these muffins.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Used for the crumb topping, adding sweetness and texture.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Binds the crumb topping together for a delightful crunch.
- 1 tbsp lemon peel: Extra lemon zest for the topping, enhancing flavor.
- 1/2 cup flour: Helps create the right texture for the crumb topping.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze, adding sweetness and a smooth finish.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: For the glaze, tying all the lemon flavors together.
Directions for Lemon Crumb Muffins

Making the Lemon Crumb Muffins is an enjoyable process, and the end result is always rewarding. Let’s dive into the steps!
- Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that the muffins get a good rise. As the oven heats, you can prepare your muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together and set them aside for later use.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using a mixer for about two minutes. This step is crucial as it adds air into the mixture, helping the muffins to be light and fluffy.
- Next, add in the oil, sour cream, lemon peel, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Beat this mixture until everything is well combined; it should be smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense muffins.
- Now, scoop the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each liner about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the crumb topping. Combine the sugar, salt, melted butter, lemon zest, and flour. Mix everything until the butter is fully absorbed, creating a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the muffin batter in the pan. This will create a delightful crunch once baked.
- Place the pan in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F. Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.
- If you wish to add a glaze, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled muffins for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve the Lemon Crumb Muffins warm or at room temperature and enjoy the burst of lemon flavor!
Things Worth Knowing
- Let the batter rest: Allowing the muffin batter to rest for a few minutes can enhance the texture, making them even fluffier.
- Check the freshness of your ingredients: Using fresh baking soda and baking powder ensures proper rising.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Overmixing caution: Mix until just combined to prevent tough muffins.
Make It Your Own

There are countless ways to personalize your Lemon Crumb Muffins. Here are some tips that can help you put your own spin on them:
- Storage: Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Variations: Consider adding poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch and added texture.
- Serving suggestion: Pair these muffins with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of yogurt for a delicious breakfast.
- Glaze options: You can experiment with different glazes like a simple icing sugar glaze or a cream cheese frosting for a twist.
- Kid-friendly: Let kids help sprinkle the crumb topping on each muffin for a fun baking activity.
Serving This Lemon Crumb Muffins
When it comes to serving Lemon Crumb Muffins, the options are as bright and cheery as the muffins themselves! Here are some great ideas:
- Breakfast treat: These muffins make a perfect addition to your breakfast table. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.
- Brunch gatherings: They’re ideal for brunch, alongside fresh fruit and a yogurt parfait, creating a colorful and appetizing spread.
- Picnic-friendly: Pack them for a picnic. They hold up well and are easy to transport in a container.
- Snack time: Enjoy them as a sweet afternoon snack with a glass of milk or a smoothie.
- Seasonal events: These muffins fit perfectly into spring and summer gatherings, bringing a refreshing lemon flavor to your festivities.
- Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
FAQ
Conclusion
These Lemon Crumb Muffins are a delightful treat that brings a touch of sunshine to your day. They are not only easy to make but also immensely satisfying, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. I encourage you to try baking them yourself; you’ll find they become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy that comes with each bite!

Lemon Crumb Muffins
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Peeler
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Oil
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1 tbsp Lemon Peel
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 3 tsp Lemon Extract
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1/4 cup Butter, Melted
- 1 tbsp Lemon Peel
- 1/2 cup Flour
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a large bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a mixer bowl, beat eggs and sugar for approximately two minutes. Add in oil, sour cream, lemon peel, lemon juice, and lemon extract and beat until well combined. Slowly add the flour mixture to the liquid mixture and mix until just combined.
- Scoop batter into a muffin pan that has been lined with liners.
- In a separate bowl, combine ingredients for crumb topping including sugar, salt, melted butter, lemon zest, and flour. Mix until all of the mixture has absorbed the butter, and mixture is crumbly. Divide crumb topping and sprinkle on top of muffin batter that has been scooped into the pan.
- Place in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F. Bake for approximately 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
- If topping with lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice and mix until well combined. Lightly drizzle over each muffin.
- Serve and enjoy!


