Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delightful fall treat that’s both healthy and satisfying, these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need! They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and comforting or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a tasty snack. The warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor make them a seasonal favorite, and the best part? They pack in 7g of protein per muffin while being lightly sweetened with coconut sugar. Trust me, once you try these muffins, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to whip up: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these muffins baking away in no time.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin flavor and chocolatey goodness.
• Great for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week as a grab-and-go snack.
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, gluten-free ingredients, these muffins are a healthier treat you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip these up with items that are likely already in your pantry.

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

Extras

• 1 cup paleo chocolate chips (182g)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas to make these muffins your own:

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Change up the sweetness: Try using maple syrup instead of coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in fruits: Add some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for even more warmth.

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly. While that’s warming up, line your muffin tin with liners—this makes cleanup super easy!

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it helps distribute the baking powder and spices evenly throughout the flour mix, leading to perfectly risen muffins.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all of the wet ingredients until smooth. It’s important that this mixture is well blended to ensure each muffin has that delicious pumpkin flavor. Then, gently add the dry ingredients to this bowl. Stir until just combined—it’s okay if there are still some flour streaks!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips & Rest

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those luscious chocolate chips. Once everything is mixed but not over-stirred, let the batter rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Divide your batter evenly between the muffin cavities—don’t forget to sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top if you’re feeling indulgent! Bake them in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. Remember, they will be moist when they come out, so allow them to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step helps them set perfectly!

Enjoy every bite of your healthy Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins!

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

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll create muffins that are not only festive but also perfectly moist and flavorful!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, making your own from fresh pumpkins can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your muffins. Fresh pumpkin is often sweeter and more vibrant than its canned counterpart.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the muffins’ fluffy texture. Over-mixing can lead to dense muffins, so stop as soon as you no longer see flour streaks.

• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to sit for 15 minutes before baking gives it a chance to hydrate fully. This small step helps improve the overall texture of your muffins.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Since these muffins are moist due to the pumpkin, use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Coconut sugar can vary in sweetness depending on the brand. Feel free to taste your batter before baking and adjust the sugar if you’d like them sweeter!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for any occasion, whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a delightful dessert. Here are some creative ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of your muffins before serving for an added crunch and delicious nutty flavor.
• Coconut whipped cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream on each muffin adds a creamy texture that balances perfectly with the spices.
• Pumpkin seeds: For a festive touch, sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top; they add both visual appeal and a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side that complements the warm spices in your muffins. Combine seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries for a colorful dish.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and sliced bananas for a wholesome side that adds protein and creaminess alongside your muffins.
• Herbal tea: Pair your muffins with a warm cup of herbal tea such as chai or cinnamon spice for an inviting fall experience that enhances the flavors of pumpkin.
• Smoothie bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits and greens into a smoothie bowl topped with seeds and granola for a nutritious pairing that works beautifully alongside these muffins.

Enjoy crafting delightful moments with these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins while sharing them with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the muffins to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• They can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Ensure the muffins are fully cooled.
• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen muffins, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
• To reheat, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them in an oven at 350F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein).

Can I substitute the gluten-free flour with regular flour?

While this recipe is tailored for gluten-free flour, you may use regular all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern. Adjustments may need to be made to achieve the same texture and moisture.

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

Each muffin contains approximately 7 grams of protein, making it a satisfying snack or breakfast option that supports your dietary needs.

Can I add nuts to my Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition. Just remember to adjust the quantity depending on your preference!

What sweeteners can I use instead of coconut sugar?

You can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives; however, this may change the consistency slightly. Be sure to adjust other liquid ingredients accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a fantastic choice for any time of day. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, I’m sure they’ll bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!