Imagine sinking your teeth into a donut that’s both fluffy and moist, bursting with the tangy sweetness of rhubarb, all while a crunchy streusel topping dances on your taste buds. National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts are not just a treat; they’re an experience that evokes joy and nostalgia, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family during a weekend brunch or a cozy afternoon snack.
As I recall the laughter-filled kitchen where we first whipped up these delightful donuts, the aroma of freshly baked goodness filled the air, wrapping us in warmth and comfort. Each bite transports you to a sunlit morning, where the combination of tart rhubarb and sweet streusel creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible—guaranteeing smiles all around as you celebrate this sweet occasion.
Why Is National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts So Irresistibly Good?
Deliciously moist and bursting with tart rhubarb, these donuts are a unique twist on the classic treat. Easy to make, with just 20 minutes of prep, they fit perfectly into any busy schedule. Crispy streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite. Perfect for sharing, they’re sure to impress family and friends on National Donut Day!
National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your donuts, creating a delightful texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness that balances the tartness of the rhubarb.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – Aids in leavening for perfectly airy donuts.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in your donut batter.
- 1 large egg (beaten) – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk – Contributes to a tender crumb and adds a hint of tang.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted) – Introduces richness and a lovely buttery flavor.
- 1 cup rhubarb (chopped) – Provides a deliciously tart surprise in each bite, perfect for National Donut Day!
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Creates a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft donuts.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor with its rich molasses notes.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – Ensures your streusel has that delightful crumbly consistency.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice, elevating your streusel topping perfectly.
How to Make National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut pan. This step ensures your donuts bake evenly and come out easily without sticking.
2. Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt in a mixing bowl. This dry mixture should be light and fluffy, creating a great base for your batter.
3. Combine the beaten egg, 1/2 cup buttermilk, and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter in another bowl. The mixture should look smooth and creamy, blending all the rich flavors together.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup chopped rhubarb, ensuring you don’t overmix to keep those donuts delightfully tender.
Make the Streusel Topping:
5. Mix together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cold cubed butter (1/4 cup), and 1/2 tsp cinnamon in a small bowl until crumbly. This will create that irresistible crunchy topping!
Bake the Donuts:
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. This allows enough space for rising while keeping them perfectly shaped.
7. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the batter. You want every bite to be filled with that delightful crunch!
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into a donut. They should be lightly golden on top and smell heavenly!
9. Cool the donuts in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly without becoming soggy.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts
- Flour Measurement: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense donuts. Too much flour can make them heavy and dry.
- Fresh Rhubarb: Opt for fresh rhubarb for the best flavor and texture, avoiding any limp or wilted stalks that may affect taste.
- Mixing Technique: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, ruining your National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts.
- Chill Butter: Ensure your butter for the streusel topping is cold and cubed; this creates a delightful crunch. Room temperature butter won’t yield the same texture.
- Donut Pan Care: Grease your donut pan well to prevent sticking. If they stick, you might lose that beautiful shape and topping!
- Cooling Time: Allow donuts to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their structure and prevents sogginess.
How to Store and Freeze National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts

Room Temperature: Store your donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the donuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Seal them tightly to avoid absorbing any odors from other foods.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts later, freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, place frozen donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their delightful texture!
National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts Your Way
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful treats to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious alternative. You’ll still enjoy that moist texture, while keeping things gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results.
- Berry Bliss: Swap out half of the rhubarb for fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of sweetness. The combination of tart and sweet adds a lovely depth to each bite, enticing you with every donut.
- Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a lively citrus twist. This bright flavor enhances the overall taste experience and balances the tartness of the rhubarb beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for an added crunch. This not only elevates the texture but also gives an extra layer of flavor that complements the streusel topping perfectly.
- Spiced Delight: Enhance the streusel by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon. These warm spices will envelop your kitchen in an aromatic hug while baking, making them irresistible.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and use almond milk instead of buttermilk. You won’t miss out on moistness, and every bite will be just as satisfying!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top your finished donuts with a simple chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate chips and a splash of coconut oil. This indulgent touch will elevate your donut game to decadent levels!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts in advance is a delightful way to save time and enhance your enjoyment on this special day. The donut batter can be prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing you to whisk together the dry ingredients—1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1/2 tsp of baking soda, and 1/4 tsp of salt—alongside the wet ingredients: 1 beaten egg, 1/2 cup buttermilk, and 2 tbsp of melted unsalted butter. You can also chop the rhubarb ahead of time for a burst of tartness. For the streusel topping, mix together 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cold cubed butter (1/4 cup), and 1/2 tsp cinnamon; this can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply spoon the batter into your greased donut pan, sprinkle with streusel, bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, and let cool before serving. This method not only saves you precious time but ensures your National Donut Day celebration is filled with warm, fresh flavors!
National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts Recipe FAQs
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and fill it with milk until you reach the 1/2 cup line. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes to curdle before using it in your donut batter.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Absolutely! These delightful donuts freeze beautifully. Once they have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
How should I store leftover donuts?
To keep your National Donut Day rhubarb crumble streusel donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a slightly longer shelf life, but they may lose some of their moistness.
What if my batter is too thick?
If your donut batter seems too thick after mixing, don’t fret! You can add a splash more buttermilk (about 1-2 tablespoons) to achieve that perfect consistency. The goal is a smooth batter that flows easily when spooned into the donut pan—just be careful not to over-mix!
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of deliciously moist donuts. However, if you’re serving a crowd on National Donut Day, feel free to double or triple the batch! Just remember to adjust your baking time if you’re using multiple pans.
Can I use other fruits instead of rhubarb?
Certainly! While rhubarb adds a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the streusel topping, you can substitute it with chopped strawberries, blueberries, or even diced apples. Just keep in mind that different fruits may alter the flavor profile slightly; feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!

National Donut Day Rhubarb Crumble Streusel Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the beaten egg, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
- In a small bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.




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