Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Packed with flavor and nutrition, these muffins feature a whole can of pumpkin and are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar. With 7 grams of protein per muffin, they make a great snack or dessert that satisfies your cravings while keeping you healthy. Easy to prepare and versatile, these muffins fit well into meal prep routines or as a festive addition to gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High Protein Content: Each muffin offers 7g of protein, making them a nutritious choice.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these muffins are quick to whip up.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm, comforting taste.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert option.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free flour, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein), gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having the right equipment makes baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your muffins uniformly for even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps in thoroughly combining ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Spatula: Ideal for folding in chocolate chips without over-mixing your batter.

Ingredients

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins come together with wholesome ingredients:

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)

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and add liners to your muffin tin to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients until they are well combined. This includes the gluten-free flour, collagen peptides, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Mix 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.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients using a spatula. Stir gently until you still see some flour visible; do not over-mix!

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips & Rest Batter

Fold in the chocolate chips carefully. Allow the batter to rest for about 15 minutes to enhance texture.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cavities in your prepared muffin tin. You can add extra chocolate chips on top if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These delightful muffins can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast or as a snack, here are some creative ideas to enhance your experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Pair with Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast that adds extra protein.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears for a refreshing side.

Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea to warm up your afternoon.
• Spread almond butter on top for added richness and flavor.

Dessert Option

• Top with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a decadent dessert.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. These simple suggestions can elevate your baking game and ensure delicious results.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and pumpkin puree to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter blend more smoothly.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the muffins are done baking.
• Add moisture: If your batter seems too thick, add a splash of almond milk or another plant-based milk to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Pairing these gluten-free pumpkin muffins with complementary side dishes can enhance their flavor and make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great side dish options.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and natural sweetness.
2. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for added crunch and nutrition.
3. Nut Butter Platter: Offer an assortment of nut butters like almond or cashew for dipping or spreading.
4. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits with spinach or kale, then top with seeds for extra texture.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: Prepare chia pudding with plant-based milk and vanilla extract for a creamy side treat.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Season and roast seasonal veggies like carrots or sweet potatoes to complement the muffin’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not measuring flour correctly: Always use the spoon and level method to avoid packing flour into the cup, which can lead to dense muffins.
• Overmixing the batter: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can create tough muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes helps improve texture and rise. Skipping this step may result in less flavorful muffins.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated. An incorrect temperature can cause uneven baking, affecting the texture.
• Using stale ingredients: Check expiration dates on baking powder and baking soda. Fresh ingredients are key for proper rising and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep muffins layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

• Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds until warm but be cautious not to overdo it, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein):

Can I substitute other flours?

Yes, you can try almond flour or oat flour, but note that results may vary. Adjust liquid as needed.

How do I add more protein?

To increase protein content, consider adding additional collagen peptides or using a protein-rich flour blend.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

You can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). The texture may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as a substitute for pumpkin pie spice.

How should I store leftover muffins?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they bring the essence of fall right into your kitchen. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or different spices according to your taste preferences!