Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need! Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. These muffins are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making them perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With each bite, you’re not just indulging in a sweet treat; you’re nourishing your body with 7g of protein per muffin!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. It’s a go-to for those days when I’m craving something festive yet healthy. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them anytime. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore these muffins!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making this a fun baking project even for beginners.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin flavor and chocolatey goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch on the weekend, and have healthy snacks ready for the week ahead.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a delightful taste that screams comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You’ll find everything you need right 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

Add-ins

• 1 cup paleo chocolate chips (182g)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Switch spices: Try using cinnamon or nutmeg instead of pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.
• Make it mini: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking!
• Fruit addition: Fold in some raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, 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: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients until they are well combined. This helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout your muffins.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all the wet ingredients until smooth. This is where the magic begins! Adding dry ingredients to wet ones helps create that perfect muffin texture.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until you see some flour still visible. This helps prevent over-mixing, which can lead to dense muffins.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Rest

Fold in the chocolate chips carefully. Then let your batter rest for about 15 minutes—this allows everything to meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Bake Those Muffins

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cavities and sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top if you’d like! Bake in your preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. They will be moist inside, so allow them to cool before diving in!

With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins that everyone will adore. Enjoy every bite!

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

Making these muffins is a breeze, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor and moisture of your muffins. Simply roast a pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth for a fresher taste.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes lets the gluten-free flour absorb moisture better, which results in a more tender muffin. This step makes a big difference in texture!
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your gluten-free flour. Scooping directly from the bag can lead to packed flour and dry muffins.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds can complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Ovens vary, so check your muffins by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re done!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These muffins are delicious on their own but can be even more delightful when served with a few special touches!

Garnishes

• Maple syrup drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds sweetness and a lovely presentation.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Mix equal parts cinnamon and coconut sugar, then lightly dust over warm muffins for an extra touch of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the muffins.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome breakfast or snack that complements the muffins perfectly.
• Chia seed pudding: Made with almond milk and topped with nuts or fruit, this creamy dish pairs well with the spices in your muffins.
• Warm spiced tea: Serve with herbal tea infused with cinnamon or ginger for a cozy pairing that enhances those fall flavors.

Enjoy making these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! They not only taste wonderful, but they also fill your kitchen with that irresistible autumn aroma—perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making breakfast or snack time that much easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place 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.

Reheating

• To enjoy warmed muffins, remove from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about these delightful muffins, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! You can leave out the chocolate chips or substitute them with nuts or dried fruits for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) turn out moist?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and allow it to rest as instructed. This helps retain moisture and creates a tender muffin.

Can I use another type of flour instead of gluten free 1-to-1 flour?

Yes! However, keep in mind that different flours may yield different results. Almond flour or oat flour could be good alternatives but may require adjustments to liquid measurements.

How long do these muffins last?

When stored properly, they stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days and can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Can I substitute coconut sugar with another sweetener?

Certainly! You can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but this may change the texture slightly. Adjust other liquids accordingly if using liquid sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! They are not only healthy but also filled with warmth and fall flavors that are bound to lift your spirits. Enjoy making them as much as you will love eating them! Don’t forget to share your creations, and happy baking!