Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall, these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need! They are not only easy to whip up but also a fantastic option for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings. With a whole can of pumpkin and a touch of coconut sugar, these muffins strike the perfect balance between health and indulgence. Plus, they pack in 7g of protein per muffin, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a nutritious snack.

Every time I bake these muffins, the warm aroma fills my kitchen and instantly brings back memories of autumn days spent with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven with your morning coffee or sharing them at a potluck, they always bring smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Wholesome: These muffins are made with simple ingredients that nourish your body without sacrificing flavor.
• High in Protein: With 7g of protein per muffin, they make for a filling snack that keeps you energized throughout the day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet pumpkin flavor and chocolate chips, making it easy to please everyone at the table.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have delicious muffins ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time for quick breakfasts or snacks all week long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses pantry staples that you might already have on hand.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cup gluten free 1-to-1 flour (156g)
• ½ cup unflavored collagen peptides (49g)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 can pumpkin puree (15oz)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup coconut sugar (81g)
• ¼ cup avocado oil (or melted refined coconut oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins

• 1 cup paleo chocolate chips (182g)

Variations

Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations! This recipe is quite flexible, so you can customize it to suit your taste.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg for an even richer flavor.
• Swap the chocolate: Use dried fruit like cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate chips for a different twist.
• Make mini muffins: Adjust the baking time and create adorable mini muffins—perfect for little hands!

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your muffins will rise perfectly as soon as they hit the hot oven.

Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Line your muffin tin with paper liners. This not only makes cleanup easier but also helps keep your muffins moist.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients until they’re well combined. This helps ensure that each muffin has an even distribution of flavor and texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together all the wet ingredients until smooth. Mixing them thoroughly is key; it ensures that everything blends well when combined with the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir just until combined—it’s okay if some flour remains visible! This technique prevents overmixing, which can lead to dense muffins.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips gently until no more flour is visible. Allowing the batter to rest for about 15 minutes helps develop flavors and creates an incredible texture.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Tins

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cavities. If you’d like, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for that irresistible finish!

Step 8: Bake

Transfer your muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want them cooked through but still moist!

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, let your muffins cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling. This step is important as it allows them to set properly.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)! They’re bound to become a cherished recipe in your home too.

Pro Tips for Making Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time!

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting helps eliminate lumps and ensures your gluten free flour blends well with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.

• Let the Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes not only helps with hydration but also improves the texture of your muffins, making them moist and fluffy.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: While canned pumpkin works great, using fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure it’s pureed smoothly!

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing until just combined helps prevent dense muffins. Overmixing activates the flour’s proteins too much, leading to a tougher texture.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your muffins! Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These delightful muffins are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them even further with some thoughtful presentation ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkling of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Maple Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top adds sweetness and a touch of fall-inspired flavor that everyone will love.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Mix cinnamon with a bit of coconut sugar to create a sweet topping that gives your muffins an extra layer of deliciousness.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples and pears pairs perfectly with these muffins, adding freshness to your meal.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a light and protein-packed side that balances out the muffin’s sweetness.
• Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite smoothie ingredients and top with granola, seeds, or additional chocolate chips for an energizing breakfast option alongside your muffins.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea complements the spiced flavors of these pumpkin muffins beautifully, creating a cozy snack experience.

Enjoy these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as a delightful treat any time of day!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick breakfast or snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, make sure they’re well-sealed.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw muffins in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

How many grams of protein are in Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)?

Each muffin contains approximately 7 grams of protein, making them a great snack option to fuel your day!

Can I use different sweeteners instead of coconut sugar?

Absolutely! You can substitute coconut sugar with maple syrup or honey. Just adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly for your desired consistency.

Are Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) suitable for kids?

Yes! These muffins are nutritious and packed with protein, making them a great choice for kids as a healthy snack or breakfast option.

Can I add nuts or seeds to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds to add even more texture and nutrition to your muffins.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! They’re not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite special. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I did, and feel free to experiment with it. Happy baking!