Rhubarb Muffins Recipe

If you’re searching for a fresh, seasonal twist on your favorite muffin recipe, look no further than Rhubarb Muffins. These golden, tender muffins balance the natural tartness of rhubarb with a subtle sweetness, creating a deliciously moist bite every time. Whether you’re packing school lunches, preparing brunch trays, or just craving a weekend treat, rhubarb muffins are a must-bake summer snack.

This recipe is simple, uses pantry staples, and brings out the best of early summer’s rhubarb harvest.

🍃 Why Make Rhubarb Muffins?

• Seasonal freshness: Celebrate spring and summer rhubarb in a portable snack.

• Perfect texture: Moist crumb with tender edges and a lightly crisp top.

• Balanced flavor: Tangy rhubarb cuts through the sweetness for a complex taste.

• Easy prep: Mix everything in one bowl, no fancy tools required.

• Kid-friendly: Great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

🛒 Ingredients for Rhubarb Muffins

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup fresh rhubarb, finely chopped (about 1 large stalk)

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or vegetable oil)

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, adds brightness)

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)

• Turbinado sugar (optional, for topping)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Rhubarb Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk egg, applesauce, yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.

Step 4: Fold in Rhubarb

Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, gently folding until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender. Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Topping

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about ¾ full). Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar for a subtle crunch if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Muffins should be golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

🥧 Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Muffins

• Chop rhubarb finely: Smaller pieces distribute flavor evenly and keep texture pleasant.

• Don’t overmix: Overworking batter can cause tough muffins.

• Use applesauce or oil: Applesauce adds moisture with less fat, but oil works well for a richer crumb.

• Add lemon zest: The citrus brightness enhances the tartness of rhubarb.

• Sugar topping: Turbinado sugar or coarse sugar adds a delightful crunch contrast to soft muffins.

🔄 Variations and Substitutions

🍓 Strawberry-Rhubarb Muffins

Add ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries with the rhubarb for a classic combo.

🌾 Gluten-Free Option

Swap flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Add an extra ¼ tsp baking powder for lift.

🍯 Natural Sweetener

Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey (adjust liquid accordingly).

🌰 Nutty Twist

Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

❓ Rhubarb Muffins FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb in muffins?

Yes! Thaw and drain excess moisture before folding into the batter to avoid soggy muffins.

How do I store rhubarb muffins?

Keep cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt and use oil instead of applesauce if preferred.

Why do my muffins turn out dense?

Likely due to overmixing or using expired baking powder. Mix just until ingredients come together.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just use two muffin tins or bake in batches, adjusting bake time slightly if using jumbo muffin pans.

🥣 Serving Suggestions

• Perfect on their own for a quick snack.

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese.

• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or brunch.

• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.

🌟 Celebrate Summer with These Tangy Rhubarb Muffins

Soft, tender, and packed with juicy rhubarb flavor, these muffins bring the best of summer mornings to your kitchen table. They’re easy enough for busy weekday breakfasts but special enough for leisurely weekend brunches or picnic baskets.

With the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, rhubarb muffins are your new seasonal staple. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bite of summer in every muffin!