I love baking rhubarb muffins because they’re soft, tender, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. The rhubarb adds a bright, slightly tangy flavor that keeps the muffins from being too sweet. I usually make these when rhubarb is in season and I want an easy bake that feels fresh and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because the muffins are simple to make and turn out moist every time. I enjoy how the rhubarb softens as it bakes and creates little pockets of tangy flavor throughout. These muffins work well for breakfast, snacks, or even a light dessert.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
brown sugar
baking powder
baking soda
salt
ground cinnamon (optional)
eggs
milk or buttermilk
vegetable oil or melted butter
vanilla extract
fresh rhubarb
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners or greasing it well. I chop the rhubarb into small pieces and set it aside.
In a large bowl, I mix the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined.
I fold in the chopped rhubarb, being careful not to overmix. I divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups. I bake the muffins for about 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. I let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 12 muffins from this recipe.
Preparation time: about 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 to 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 40 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a crumb topping made with butter, sugar, and flour for extra texture. I like mixing in strawberries to pair with the rhubarb for a sweeter flavor. For a warmer taste, I occasionally add nutmeg or ginger to the batter.
storage/reheating
I store rhubarb muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm a muffin in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
I can use frozen rhubarb, but I thaw and drain it well before adding it to the batter.
Do I need to peel rhubarb?
I don’t peel it, as the skin softens nicely during baking.
Can I reduce the sugar?
I can slightly reduce the sugar, but I keep enough to balance the tart rhubarb.
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
I use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter to keep them dairy-free.
Can I freeze rhubarb muffins?
I freeze the cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
I keep making these rhubarb muffins because they’re easy, flavorful, and full of seasonal charm. I love how the tart rhubarb and soft muffin crumb come together into a bake that feels comforting, fresh, and perfect any time of day.
Rhubarb Muffins
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Soft, tender rhubarb muffins with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavor, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a light seasonal dessert.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- Chop the rhubarb into small pieces and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped rhubarb, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender.
- Frozen rhubarb can be used if thawed and well drained.
- A crumb topping adds extra texture and sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
