Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are perfect for fall and any time you crave a healthy treat! With a whole can of pumpkin, these muffins are not only delicious but also packed with 7 grams of protein per muffin. Sweetened lightly with coconut sugar, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that works well for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. These muffins are easy to whip up and will satisfy your cravings for something festive and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Made with pumpkin puree and coconut sugar, these muffins provide a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• High Protein Content: Each muffin contains 7 grams of protein, making them an excellent choice for a filling snack or breakfast.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, lunchboxes, or as a cozy snack at home. They fit various occasions seamlessly.
• Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these muffins ready to bake.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin and spices results in rich flavors that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins, gather your tools beforehand. This will streamline your baking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your muffins evenly, ensuring they rise beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients helps prevent clumping and ensures thorough mixing.
• Spatula: A flexible spatula is great for folding in ingredients without overmixing the batter.

Ingredients

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are a classic fall baked good made healthy! This recipe uses a whole can of pumpkin, is lightly sweetened with coconut sugar and packs in 7g of protein per muffin. They are super easy to make and hit the spot when you’re craving a healthy, festive treat!

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). Line your muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients until combined. Ensure there are no lumps in the flour.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together all of the wet ingredients until smooth. Make sure the pumpkin puree is well mixed with the eggs and oil.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until some flour is still visible; do not over-mix.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips carefully until no more flour is visible. Allow the batter to rest for about 15 minutes before transferring it to the muffin tin.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Divide the batter evenly between the 12 muffin cavities. Optionally top with extra chocolate chips. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. Let them cool in the muffin tin for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. Enjoy your delicious muffins!

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall morning or an afternoon snack. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your muffin experience.

With Creamy Nut Butter

• Almond butter or peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the muffins.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the taste and add a touch of natural sweetness for those who enjoy extra flavor.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the muffins.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these muffins with your favorite cup of coffee or herbal tea, making for a comforting snack any time of day.

Topped with Whipped Coconut Cream

• For a dairy-free treat, try adding whipped coconut cream on top for a light and airy addition that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Perfecting your Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins can take them from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve muffin perfection.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure eggs and other ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t over-mix the batter – Stir until just combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Let the batter rest – Allowing the batter to sit for about 15 minutes helps improve texture as it hydrates.
• Check doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they’re ready.
• Cool before serving – Allow muffins to cool in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack, which helps maintain moisture.

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

Pairing your Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins with side dishes can create a more rounded meal. Here are some great ideas to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it a satisfying combination.
2. Cottage Cheese – This low-fat option is high in protein and complements the muffins perfectly.
3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits can provide freshness and balance out the rich flavors of the muffins.
4. Chia Seed Pudding – Serve alongside chia seed pudding for added nutrition and an interesting texture contrast.
5. Nut Mix – A handful of mixed nuts offers crunch and healthy fats that pair well with sweet muffins.
6. Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can be filling and complements the flavors in your pumpkin muffins nicely.
7. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl can add color and nutrients while being visually appealing next to your muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly improve your baking experience with Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking. An unheated oven can lead to unevenly baked muffins.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until no flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for gluten-free flour. Accurate measurements ensure consistent texture and flavor.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes helps the ingredients meld together, resulting in a better rise and texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Let your muffins cool in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy and maintains their structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10-15 minutes for optimal texture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per muffin, ensuring they do not become dry.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins that may help you further.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond or oat flour, but note that this may affect the texture.

How can I make these muffins sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter muffins, consider adding more coconut sugar or incorporating mashed bananas or applesauce into the batter.

Do these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins freeze well?

Absolutely! These muffins freeze well and maintain their flavor and moisture when properly stored.

Are there any dairy alternatives I can use?

Yes, this recipe is already dairy-free, but you can substitute any plant-based milk if desired.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are not just healthy but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy a nutritious treat that fits your dietary needs!