Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of crumb cake with the convenience of muffins. These moist, buttery creations are perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or a simple snack. With a generous brown sugar cinnamon topping, these gluten-free muffins stand out not only for their taste but also for their easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these muffins will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery muffins and a cinnamon crumb topping creates an irresistible treat.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these muffins is a breeze.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for brunch, dessert, or as an afternoon snack.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy the classic flavor without gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Customizable Options: Easily adapt the recipe by adding nuts or swapping out yogurt for dairy-free alternatives.

Tools and Preparation
To make Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Bakery-style muffin liners
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: A good muffin tin ensures even baking and golden-brown tops.
- Bakery-style muffin liners: These help contain the crumb topping and allow it to rise beautifully instead of spreading out.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing your batter.
Ingredients
For the Crumb Topping
- 10 tablespoons butter or dairy-free butter, melted
- 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (we use GF Jules)
For the Muffin Batter
- ½ cup butter or dairy-free butter, room temp
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (we use GF Jules)
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
How to Make Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins will bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Line your muffin tin with bakery-style muffin liners. This is crucial as it helps keep the crumb topping intact during baking.
Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter.
2. Brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, salt, and gluten-free flour.
3. Mix until crumbly and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Muffin Batter
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Room temperature butter and white sugar until creamy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and Greek yogurt until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix:
1. Gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Liners
Spoon muffin batter into prepared liners until they are about two-thirds full. Top generously with the crumb mixture you prepared earlier.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 21 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
These Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later indulgence.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Serving your gluten-free crumb cake muffins can elevate any meal or occasion. These delightful muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for brunch, dessert, or a snack.
For Breakfast
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing start to your day.
- Enjoy alongside yogurt for a creamy, tangy complement.
As a Snack
- Drizzle with honey for added sweetness between meals.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.
For Dessert
- Top with whipped cream and berries for an elegant finish.
- Warm up slightly and serve with ice cream for a delicious treat.
How to Perfect Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Achieving the perfect gluten-free crumb cake muffins is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your muffins turn out soft and flavorful.
- Use high-quality gluten-free flour: Choosing a good gluten-free all-purpose flour like GF Jules can make a significant difference in texture.
- Incorporate room-temperature ingredients: Having all your ingredients at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to fluffier muffins.
- Avoid overmixing: Stir just until combined to prevent tough muffins; overmixing can lead to undesirable texture.
- Invest in good muffin liners: Bakery-style muffin liners help keep the crumb topping intact and prevent spreading during baking.
- Adjust baking time as needed: Ovens vary, so check your muffins a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick.
Best Side Dishes for Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Pairing your gluten-free crumb cake muffins with the right sides can enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some excellent side dish options that blend well with these tasty treats.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and freshness that complements the muffins beautifully. -
Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that balances the muffin’s sweetness. -
Scrambled Eggs
Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein and richness, making for a satisfying breakfast combination. -
Nut Butter Toast
Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter provides crunchiness and nutty flavor contrast. -
Smoothie Bowl
A smoothie bowl topped with seeds and sliced fruits makes for a healthy and colorful side option. -
Chia Seed Pudding
This creamy pudding is not only nutritious but also adds an interesting texture alongside the muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture of your muffins. Always allow them to reach room temperature for better mixing.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Excess flour can lead to dry muffins. Use a scale if possible or spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
- Ignoring Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents are crucial for fluffy muffins. Check their expiration dates before use to ensure freshness.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can create dense muffins. Mix just until combined for a light, airy texture.
- Choosing the Wrong Muffin Liners: Not using bakery-style liners can cause toppings to spread out. Opt for thicker liners that help contain the crumb topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Muffins will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
- Place muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes, keeping them moist.
- Microwave: Heat each muffin for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins that may help you as you bake.
Can I make Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular butter with dairy-free butter and use dairy-free yogurt.
How do I store Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
What type of gluten-free flour should I use?
Using a blend like GF Jules is recommended as it mimics the texture of all-purpose flour effectively.
Can I add mix-ins to my Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when my muffins are done baking?
Muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Final Thoughts
These Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins offer a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. Their moist texture paired with a crumbly topping makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this easy recipe a try; you’ll love how versatile and satisfying these muffins are!
Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Muffins, where moist, buttery muffins meet a sweet cinnamon crumb topping. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert, making them an ideal addition to any gathering. With their gluten-free goodness, everyone can enjoy these scrumptious bites without compromising on taste. The generous crumb layer adds a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these muffins promise to become a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons butter (or dairy-free butter), melted
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (such as GF Jules)
- ½ cup butter (or dairy-free butter), room temp
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (such as GF Jules)
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with bakery-style liners.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, salt, and gluten-free flour until crumbly to form the topping.
- In another bowl, cream room temperature butter with sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and yogurt.
- In a separate bowl, combine gluten-free flour with baking powder, baking soda, and salt; gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
- Spoon batter into muffin liners up to two-thirds full and top generously with the crumb mixture.
- Bake for about 21 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (85g)
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 167mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg