Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need! They’re not only packed with cozy pumpkin flavor but also boast an impressive 7 grams of protein per muffin. Perfect for those busy mornings or family gatherings, these muffins will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings for something wholesome and delicious.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty muffins in no time. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or serving them at brunch, they’re sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious muffins ready to enjoy.
• Protein-packed: Each muffin provides a nutritious boost with 7 grams of protein, perfect for sustaining energy throughout your day.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of pumpkin and chocolate chips.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week and have healthy snacks ready to go!
• Festive flavor: Enjoy the warm spices and rich pumpkin taste that make these muffins ideal for fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful treats.

For the Muffins:

• 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
• 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
• 1 cup paleo chocolate chips (182g)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize your muffins to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to consider:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick.
• Swap the chocolate chips: Try using dried cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate for a fruity twist.
• Make them mini: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized versions that are perfect for snacking!

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your muffin tin with liners. This step ensures even baking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all of the dry ingredients until well combined. This includes the gluten free flour, collagen peptides, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing them well helps distribute flavors evenly throughout your batter.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together all of the wet ingredients until smooth. This includes the pumpkin puree, eggs, coconut sugar, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Combining them thoroughly ensures a moist muffin texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine! Gently add the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir until just combined—don’t worry if there’s still a little flour visible; over-mixing can lead to dense muffins.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in those delicious paleo chocolate chips gently until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Allowing the batter to rest for about 15 minutes lets it thicken slightly while ensuring those chocolate chips don’t sink!

Step 6: Bake Your Muffins

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cavities. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top for an added treat! Bake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. The muffins should be moist but firm when done.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow your muffins to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is important as it helps set their texture—and trust me, waiting will be worth it when you take that first bite! Enjoy these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins anytime you need a little sweetness in your day!

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

Baking can be a breeze with a few insider tips! Here are some handy suggestions to make your gluten free pumpkin muffins turn out perfectly every time.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to gluten-free flour. This ensures the right texture and helps avoid dense muffins.
• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to sit for 15 minutes before baking not only enhances the flavor but also helps the gluten-free flour absorb moisture, resulting in a tender muffin.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so be gentle!
• Check for doneness: Since these muffins are moist, use a toothpick inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached—this ensures they’re perfectly baked.
• Experiment with mix-ins: While chocolate chips are delicious, try incorporating nuts or dried fruits for added texture and nutrition. Just be sure they align with your dietary preferences!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Serving your delicious pumpkin muffins can be as fun as baking them! Here are some creative ideas to present your festive treat.

Garnishes

• Pumpkin seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top of each muffin before baking for an extra crunch and seasonal flair.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon mixed with coconut sugar on top adds sweetness and an aromatic touch that enhances the fall vibe.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the muffins while adding freshness and vibrancy.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome breakfast option that complements the muffins’ flavors.
• Nut butter spread: Serve alongside almond or cashew butter for a protein-packed addition that also provides creaminess and richness to each bite.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pair your muffins with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee. The warmth elevates the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice while making it the perfect snack or breakfast treat.

With these serving ideas, you’ll impress friends and family while enjoying every bite of your gluten free pumpkin muffins!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a healthy snack or breakfast option.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, 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 make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw muffins overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Microwave on low power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious muffins:

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

Absolutely! You can omit the chocolate chips or replace them with nuts or dried fruits for a different flavor profile.

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

You can add more unflavored collagen peptides or protein powder to the batter. Just make sure to adjust other ingredients accordingly to maintain texture.

Can I substitute avocado oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can use melted refined coconut oil or another neutral oil like grapeseed oil if you prefer.

Are these muffins suitable for kids?

Definitely! These muffins are not only nutritious but also delicious, making them a great snack option for kids.

How long do these muffins last after baking?

When stored properly, they last up to 3 days at room temperature and about a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as I am! They bring together all the cozy flavors of fall while providing a healthy boost with each bite. Enjoy making them, whether it’s for your family gatherings or just a lovely treat for yourself. Remember, baking is all about love and sharing – so don’t forget to share these delightful muffins with friends! Happy baking!