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Wholesome Pumpkin Protein Muffins

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Cozy and nourishing pumpkin protein muffins with chocolate chips, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack. These muffins are quick to make, use simple ingredients, and offer a balanced, tender texture with subtle sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) protein powder (unflavored or vanilla whey, plant-based optional)
  • 1 cup (120 g) whole wheat flour (can substitute all-purpose or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup (can substitute honey)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or dairy milk)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (60 g) mini chocolate chips
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, protein powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and uniform.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.
  5. Fold in the mini chocolate chips and optional chopped nuts gently to distribute evenly.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, starting to check at 18 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Remove from oven and let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough muffins. Use fresh baking powder for best rise. If protein powder tends to dry out baked goods, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or applesauce to the wet mix for extra moisture. Tent muffins with foil if they brown too fast but are not done inside. For vegan option, use flax eggs and plant-based protein and milk. Muffins keep well for 3 days at room temperature and freeze up to 2 months.

Nutrition

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