Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are not just any muffins; they are a warm hug in baked form. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these muffins pack a punch of flavor while being healthy and satisfying. With each muffin containing 7 grams of protein, you can enjoy them guilt-free!

What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up a batch. You can easily make these muffins ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They’re great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—truly versatile!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy indulgence: These muffins are lightly sweetened with coconut sugar, making them a guilt-free option for your sweet tooth.
• Protein-packed: Each muffin has 7g of protein thanks to the collagen peptides, perfect for keeping you full and energized.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal clean-up, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love the warm pumpkin flavor combined with rich chocolate chips!
• Make ahead convenience: Bake a batch on the weekend and have delicious snacks ready to go all week long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is super flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for an extra kick!
• Change the sweetness: Swap coconut sugar with maple syrup or honey if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Fruit twist: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully. Don’t forget to line your muffin tin with liners!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients until well combined. This step is important because it evenly distributes the baking powder and spices throughout the flour.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all of the wet ingredients until smooth. This helps incorporate air into the mix, giving your muffins a fluffy texture. Once mixed, add the dry ingredients to this bowl and gently stir until just combined—don’t worry if some flour is still visible!

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time to add in those delicious chocolate chips! Gently fold them into the batter until no more flour is visible. Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes helps it thicken slightly, which contributes to moist muffins.

Step 5: Bake Your Muffins

Divide the batter evenly between your muffin cavities—feel free to top with extra chocolate chips if desired. Then pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 22-25 minutes. Since these muffins will be quite moist, letting them cool in the tin for at least 15 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack is crucial.

And there you have it! Enjoy these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins fresh out of the oven or save them for later—they’re sure to be a hit!

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

Making muffins can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your baking powder and spices. Fresh ingredients contribute to better flavor and rise in your muffins.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, which is not what we’re aiming for!

• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to sit for 15 minutes helps to hydrate the flour fully, resulting in a better texture and moisture level in the final product.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your muffins by adding nuts or seeds. They not only enhance the flavor but also increase the nutritional profile!

• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your muffins at the lower end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These muffins are perfect for any time of day – from breakfast to a cozy snack! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully and enjoyably.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon adds an aromatic touch that complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Chopped pecans: A sprinkle of chopped pecans on top not only enhances texture but also adds a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: Fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm muffins, making it a great side option for breakfast or brunch.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, satisfying side that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
• Nut butter spread: Serve with almond or cashew butter on the side for an extra protein boost and rich flavor that complements pumpkin wonderfully.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea as a beverage pairing creates a cozy atmosphere and enhances the overall experience of enjoying your muffins.

Enjoy these delicious Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as part of your fall festivities or anytime you crave something wholesome and delightful!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! They store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week, making them a convenient and delicious option for busy mornings or snacks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, move them to the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the container with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw muffins overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• You can also reheat them in an oven preheated to 350F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your baking journey!

Can I make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can skip the chocolate chips if you prefer, or substitute with nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

How can I increase the protein content in Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)?

You could consider adding more unflavored collagen peptides or incorporating protein powder into the batter. Just ensure it’s gluten-free!

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

Yes! These muffins are a nutritious treat that kids will love, especially with their delicious pumpkin flavor and chocolate chips.

Can I use different sweeteners instead of coconut sugar?

Yes! Feel free to use honey, maple syrup, or any alternative sweetener you prefer, just adjust the wet ingredients accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! They are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and packed with protein. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as part of your meal prep, I’m sure you’ll love how they brighten up your fall days. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!