Savory Streusel Topping Recipe
Introduction
This classic streusel topping adds a sweet, crunchy layer to muffins, quick breads, and coffee cakes. Easy to prepare, it transforms simple baked goods into delightful treats with a buttery oat crumble.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (60g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup (53g) light brown sugar or dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (23g) rolled oats, old-fashioned or quick-cooking*
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt
- 4 tablespoons (57g) butter, at firm room temperature
Instructions
- Step 1: Whisk together the flour, sugar, oats, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined.
- Step 2: Work the butter into the mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until coarse crumbs form.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over muffins, quick bread, coffee cakes, or other baked goods before baking.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Use softened butter instead of firm to help the ingredients blend more quickly.
- Swap rolled oats for chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- If you prefer a finer topping, pulse the oats quickly in a food processor before mixing.
Storage
Store any unused streusel topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To use, let it come to room temperature or gently rework with a fork. It’s best made fresh before baking for maximum crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make streusel topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the streusel topping a day or two in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before sprinkling over your batter.
What can I use if I don’t have rolled oats?
If you don’t have rolled oats, you can substitute with quick-cooking oats or finely chopped nuts to maintain texture and flavor.
PrintSavory Streusel Topping Recipe
A classic streusel topping recipe featuring a buttery, crumbly mixture of flour, brown sugar, oats, and salt, perfect for adding a sweet crunch to muffins, quick breads, coffee cakes, and other baked goods.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough streusel topping for 12 muffins or one 9×5 inch loaf
- Category: Topping
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Streusel Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (60g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup (53g) light brown sugar or dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (23g) rolled oats, old-fashioned or quick-cooking
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt
- 4 tablespoons (57g) butter, at firm room temperature
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and salt in a bowl until well combined, ensuring all dry components are evenly distributed.
- Add Butter: Work the butter into the dry mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mixing until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with some small lumps.
- Apply Topping: Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over muffins, quick breads, coffee cakes, or other baked goods before placing them in the oven to bake.
Notes
- You can choose either light brown or dark brown sugar depending on your preferred flavor intensity.
- Both old-fashioned or quick-cooking rolled oats work well, but old-fashioned oats provide a more distinct texture.
- Keep the butter at a firm room temperature for easier incorporation without melting.
- This topping adds a sweet crunchy texture and can be customized with added nuts or cinnamon if desired.
Keywords: streusel topping, crumb topping, muffin topping, coffee cake topping, brown sugar streusel, oat streusel

