Butter Streusel Topping

introduction

This butter streusel topping is quick and simple. It adds a sweet, crunchy layer to cakes, muffins, fruit and more. It uses common pantry ingredients and comes together fast. If you enjoy warm fall flavors, you might like the rich comfort of butternut squash pasta as another cozy option.

why make this recipe

Make this streusel because it lifts plain baked goods with little work. It adds buttered crunch, a light sweetness and a homey look. You can use it fresh from the oven or keep it to sprinkle on cold desserts. It is cheap, reliable and very flexible.

how to make Butter Streusel Topping

Follow the steps below and you will have a loose, crunchy topping in minutes.

Ingredients :
250 grams (2 cups) unbleached all purpose flour, 125 grams (1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons) organic cane sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 170 grams (3/4 cup or 1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions :
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar and salt. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Beat until it combines and forms large crumbles. Press together any smaller crumbs by hand to form bigger crumbs (you don’t want the topping to be too fine).  No mixer? You can also make the butter streusel by hand (see notes for instruction)., Scatter over baked goods that call for a crumble topping or bake it separately., You can also bake it off alone for a crispy, buttery cookie-like topping to add to ice cream, yogurt, pudding, oatmeal, stewed or roasted fruit or even just to snack on by the handful!  Preheat the oven to 350F / 180C. Spread the streusel out on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool. The streusel will get crunchy and crisp once it cools.

You can use this streusel on roasted fruit or sweet casseroles, and it pairs well with creamy soups and fall dishes like butternut squash soup for a contrast in texture.

how to serve Butter Streusel Topping

Serve it warm over fruit crisps, muffins or quick breads. You can also cool the streusel and sprinkle it on ice cream, yogurt or pudding. Use a handful as a crunchy garnish on stewed fruit or warm oatmeal.

how to store Butter Streusel Topping

Store cooled streusel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before using. If it loses crunch, reheat in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) for 5–8 minutes to refresh it.

tips to make Butter Streusel Topping

• Keep the butter cold or just softened, not oily. This helps make flakey crumbs.
• Do not overmix. Stop when large crumbles form.
• Press small loose crumbs together with your fingers to make larger pieces.
• Spread streusel evenly on the pan so it browns the same.
• Make extra and store it for fast topping later, or try it with a warm savory-sweet dish like a chicken with peanut butter sauce recipe for a crunchy contrast.

variation (if any)

• Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for more crunch.
• Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice note.
• Swap part of the flour for rolled oats for a heartier texture.
• Use brown sugar instead of cane sugar for a deeper flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make streusel by hand without a mixer?
A: Yes. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients with a pastry cutter, two knives or your fingers until you have large crumbs.

Q: Can I prepare streusel ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make it and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze up to 1 month.

Q: Will streusel stay crunchy on a wet topping?
A: It will soften if placed directly on very wet fillings. To keep crunch, bake the streusel on top of the dish or bake separately and add later.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes. You can lower the sugar slightly, but the taste and browning will change.

Q: How do I re-crisp stale streusel?
A: Spread on a baking sheet and warm in a low oven for a few minutes until crisp again.