Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that screams fall, then you have to try these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)! They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with the warm spices that make autumn special. I love making this recipe when family comes over or on busy weeknights when I want a quick snack that feels indulgent but is also healthy. Trust me, these muffins will be the highlight of your baking adventures!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it combines wholesome ingredients with a high protein boost. Each muffin contains 7g of protein, making them not only a great dessert but also a satisfying snack any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious muffins ready in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with pumpkin puree and coconut sugar, these muffins are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate chips and pumpkin spice! These muffins are sure to please both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as an easy breakfast or snack.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and avocado oil keeps these muffins delightfully moist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these wonderful muffins! You probably have many of them in your kitchen already. 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 wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for an extra kick.
• Swap the Chocolate Chips: Use dried cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate chips for a fruity twist.
• Make It Mini: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing!

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 get that lovely rise as they bake. Don’t forget to line your muffin tin with liners!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together all the wet ingredients until smooth. This includes the pumpkin puree, eggs, coconut sugar, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing them well helps to create a rich batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently with a spatula until just combined—some flour should still be visible. This prevents overmixing which can lead to tough muffins.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips & Rest the Batter

Fold in those delicious chocolate chips gently! Then let your batter rest for about 15 minutes. This allows everything to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins & Bake

Divide your batter evenly among the muffin cavities. If you like, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top for good measure! Bake them in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. They will be moist inside—so resist the urge to dig in right away!

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, let your muffins cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up slightly so they don’t fall apart when you take them out.

And there you have it—delicious Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)! Enjoy them warm or at room temperature; either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

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

Baking can be a delightful adventure, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, using homemade or freshly roasted pumpkin can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your muffins.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the ingredients together ensures that your muffins remain fluffy and light. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to sit for about 15 minutes helps with hydration, resulting in a better texture and rise during baking.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, use a toothpick to test if the muffins are done. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds can be delicious additions!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These muffins are not just perfect on their own; they can be beautifully presented in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: Dusting the tops with a mixture of cinnamon and coconut sugar adds a sweet touch that complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Adding some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking gives a lovely crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed seasonal fruits adds vibrant colors and contrasts nicely with the warm muffins.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy, tangy side that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
• Chia seed pudding: This nutritious option offers a creamy texture and is packed with fiber, making it an excellent complement to your muffins.
• Herbal tea or spiced chai: A warm cup of herbal tea or spiced chai creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying these delightful treats!

Enjoy sharing these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins with friends and family; they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for a quick breakfast or snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure they are in a sealed container to prevent dryness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bag with the date so you know when to use them!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350F for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their moist texture!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious muffins.

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

Absolutely! You can either omit the chocolate chips or substitute them with nuts, seeds, or dried fruit if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How much protein do Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) contain?

Each muffin packs in 7 grams of protein thanks to the addition of collagen peptides and gluten-free flour, making them a great option for a nutritious snack!

Can I use another type of sweetener instead of coconut sugar?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives. Just adjust the quantities accordingly since they are liquid sweeteners.

What is the best way to ensure my muffins turn out fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix your batter after adding the dry ingredients; a few lumps are okay! Also, letting the batter rest before baking helps create a lighter texture.

Are these muffins suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These muffins store well and can be made ahead of time, so they are perfect for meal prepping healthy snacks or breakfasts throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen this fall! These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are not just healthy but also incredibly tasty. Enjoy baking them and sharing with family and friends; I’m sure they’ll love them as much as you do. Happy baking!