Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate autumn, these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein) are just what you need. They bring the warm, cozy flavors of fall right into your kitchen and fill your home with an inviting aroma. I love this recipe because it’s not only easy to whip up but also a fantastic way to sneak some extra protein into your day. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or planning a family gathering, these muffins are sure to please everyone.

I often find myself reaching for this recipe during pumpkin season. It’s perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as a sweet snack in the afternoon. Plus, they’re so scrumptious that they won’t last long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with pumpkin puree and coconut sugar, these muffins are a guilt-free treat.
• High in Protein: Each muffin contains 7g of protein, making them a great option for a nutritious snack.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and basic ingredients, even beginner bakers can enjoy success!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch at the start of the week for easy breakfasts or snacks that everyone will love.
• Deliciously Festive: The warm spices and chocolate chips create a comforting flavor that celebrates the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are simple and wholesome. They come together quickly to create something truly special!

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

Mix-ins

• 1 cup paleo chocolate chips (182g)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own.

• Add nuts or seeds: Toss in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the spices: Swap pumpkin pie spice with cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to mix up the flavors.
• Make it festive: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Try different sweeteners: If you prefer, maple syrup can replace coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your muffin tin with liners. This step ensures that your muffins bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all of the dry ingredients until they’re well mixed. This helps ensure that your baking powder and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all of the wet ingredients until smooth. This creates a lovely base for your muffins. Once combined, add the dry ingredients into this mixture and stir gently with a spatula until you see a bit of flour remaining.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time to fold in those delicious chocolate chips! Stir just until no more flour is visible—overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Letting the batter rest for about 15 minutes allows it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cavities. You can sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top if you like! Bake in your preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. These muffins will be moist inside, so let them cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking these muffins is a breeze, but with a few extra tips, you can ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh baking powder and spices can significantly enhance the flavor and rise of your muffins. Check expiration dates to ensure optimal taste and texture.

• Don’t over-mix the batter – Mixing until just combined helps maintain a light and fluffy texture in your muffins. Over-mixing can lead to denser muffins that lack that delightful fluffiness.

• Let the batter rest – Allowing the batter to sit for 15 minutes before baking activates the gluten-free flour and improves the overall texture of your muffins, making them tender and moist.

• Customize with mix-ins – While paleo chocolate chips are delicious, consider adding nuts or dried fruit for an extra crunch or chew. This not only enhances flavor but also adds additional nutrients.

• Store properly – 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 helps preserve their moisture and flavor.

How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)

Serving your gluten-free pumpkin muffins can be as simple or fancy as you like! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Maple syrup drizzle – A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds a sweet touch that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top not only adds a beautiful crunch but also enhances the nutty flavors in the muffins.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits such as apples, pears, and berries makes for a refreshing side dish that balances the richness of the muffins.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer coconut yogurt with granola and sliced bananas for a creamy, satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with your muffins.
• Nut butter spread – Serve almond or cashew butter on the side for spreading on warm muffins, adding healthy fats and protein that complement their sweetness.
• Herbal tea or coffee – Pairing these muffins with a steaming cup of herbal tea or coffee makes for a cozy breakfast or snack experience, perfect for chilly fall mornings!

Enjoy creating delicious moments with these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins! They’re not just tasty; they’re packed with nutrition too!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for meal prep, making them a wholesome choice for busy weeks. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and have a delicious snack or breakfast option ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove muffins from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
• For quick reheating, microwave on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.

How can I increase the protein content in my Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins (High Protein)?

You can add additional unflavored collagen peptides or substitute some of the gluten-free flour with almond flour or protein powder to boost protein levels.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of coconut sugar?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if using a liquid sweetener.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, they’re done!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins as much as I do! They’re not only packed with flavor but also offer a nutritious twist on a fall favorite. Whether you’re snacking, enjoying breakfast, or sharing with friends, these muffins are sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking!