Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm up your fall days, these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need! They are not only delightful but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a nourishing choice for any time of the day. The warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor create a muffin that feels like a big hug from the inside out. Whether it’s for a busy morning, an afternoon snack, or a family gathering, these muffins will surely be a hit!

I love how easy they are to whip up! With just a handful of simple steps, you can have delicious muffins ready in no time. Plus, each muffin contains 7g of protein, so they’re perfect for fueling your day while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy indulgence: These muffins are lightly sweetened with coconut sugar and pack in all the fall flavors you adore.
• Simple preparation: With just ten ingredients and straightforward instructions, baking becomes a breeze!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the taste of pumpkin and chocolate together, making these muffins perfect for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week for quick breakfasts or snacks.
• Versatile flavor: Enjoy them plain or customize with your favorite mix-ins for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses pantry staples that you might already have at home. Get ready to bake some deliciously moist muffins that everyone will love!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg instead of pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
• Change up the sweetener: If you prefer another natural sweetener, maple syrup or agave could work beautifully!
• Fruit addition: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise nicely. While it’s warming up, go ahead and line your muffin tin with liners so they’re ready to go!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: gluten free flour, collagen peptides, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Mixing these first allows all the leavening agents to distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, eggs, coconut sugar, avocado oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is important because it helps create a homogenous batter that holds well during baking.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to combine! Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and fold gently with a spatula until just combined; there should still be some flour visible. This prevents overmixing which can lead to dense muffins.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in those delicious paleo chocolate chips! Stir until no flour is visible but be careful not to over-mix. Letting the batter rest for about 15 minutes before baking helps achieve tender muffins.

Step 6: Bake Your Muffins

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cavities. If you want an extra touch of chocolatey goodness, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top. Bake in your preheated oven for 22-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack—this helps them set perfectly without falling apart.

Enjoy these delightful Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) fresh out of the oven or store them for later. They’re sure to become a favorite!

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

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips under your belt! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baking powder and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your muffins. Checking expiration dates ensures that your muffins will rise and taste their best!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing until just combined helps maintain a light texture in your muffins. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins that lack the desired fluffiness.

• Cool before serving: Allowing the muffins to cool in the tin for a little while helps them set properly and enhances their flavor profile. This cooling period also makes them easier to remove from the tin without falling apart.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or seeds to the batter for an extra crunch! Ingredients like walnuts or sunflower seeds not only boost nutrition but also add delightful textures.

• Store correctly: To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage. This way, you’ll always have a healthy treat ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These muffins make a wonderful addition to any gathering or cozy morning at home. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Maple syrup drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds sweetness and a lovely touch of fall flavor. It complements the pumpkin beautifully!

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking adds texture and an appealing look, making your muffins even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries offers a refreshing balance to your muffins’ richness. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!

• Yogurt parfait: Layering dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruit creates a delightful contrast with the muffins. It adds creaminess and additional protein for a balanced meal.

• Herbal tea: Pairing these muffins with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chai or peppermint, enhances the cozy vibe of enjoying this fall-inspired treat.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set for a delightful baking experience with your Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• For quick reheating, microwave individual muffins for about 20-30 seconds.
• For a crispy exterior, heat in the oven at 350F for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe:

Can I use another type of flour instead of gluten free flour?

While this recipe is designed for gluten free 1-to-1 flour, you could experiment with almond flour or oat flour. Just be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.

How much protein is in these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)?

Each muffin packs in 7g of protein thanks to the inclusion of unflavored collagen peptides, making them a delightful and nutritious treat!

Can I substitute coconut sugar with another sweetener?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but be sure to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly as these sweeteners are liquids.

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

Absolutely! These muffins are a great way to sneak some extra nutrition into your children’s snacks. Plus, they love the chocolate chips!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as much as I do! They’re not just tasty; they’re also packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a wonderful guilt-free treat. Whether you’re enjoying them during the fall season or any time of year, these muffins are sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Happy baking!