Whole Wheat Buttermilk Muffins with Streusel Topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins are soft, tender, and filled with good-for-you ingredients without sacrificing taste. The use of whole wheat flour and ground flaxseed boosts the nutritional value, while the streusel topping adds just the right amount of indulgence. They’re easy to make, great for meal prepping, and perfect for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. Plus, they freeze well, making them a go-to recipe for families on the go.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Muffins:
1 cup whole wheat flour
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup ground flaxseed
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups buttermilk

For the Streusel:
¼ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin pan with paper liners.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the streusel ingredients: oats, brown sugar, and whole wheat flour. Add the melted butter and stir until combined. Set aside.

3. In another medium bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, flaxseed, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.

5. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well incorporated.

6. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until combined.

7. Add half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir, then add the second half and mix until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and sticky.

8. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups.

9. Sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin.

10. Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 muffins
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 23–28 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Fruit: Mix in blueberries, chopped apples, or mashed bananas for added flavor and moisture.

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel or the muffin batter.

• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer spice profile.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free buttermilk (plant milk + vinegar or lemon juice).

• Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time by 5–7 minutes.

storage/reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use only whole wheat flour?

You can, but the muffins may be denser. Using a mix of flours provides a better texture.

What can I use instead of ground flaxseed?

You can substitute with wheat germ, oat bran, or just increase the flour slightly.

Can I use store-bought buttermilk?

Yes, store-bought or homemade buttermilk (milk plus lemon juice or vinegar) works perfectly.

How do I make these muffins more moist?

Try adding mashed banana or applesauce to the batter to increase moisture.

Can I skip the streusel topping?

Yes, but the streusel adds texture and sweetness that elevates the muffin.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I make this recipe into a loaf instead of muffins?

Yes, bake in a greased loaf pan at 350°F for about 40–45 minutes, checking for doneness.

Are these muffins freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. They freeze well and are easy to reheat for a quick breakfast.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

You can reduce the brown sugar slightly, but the texture and sweetness may be affected.

What’s the best way to reheat these muffins?

Microwave for 15–20 seconds or heat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

Whole Wheat Buttermilk Muffins with Streusel Topping strike the perfect balance between healthy and satisfying. With a soft crumb, warm cinnamon flavor, and a crunchy oat topping, these muffins are ideal for breakfast on the go or a cozy snack. Make a batch today and enjoy wholesome goodness in every bite.