Pumpkin protein muffins

These pumpkin protein muffins are soft, flavorful, and packed with a gentle sweetness that makes them perfect for cozy mornings or quick snacks. I love how simple they are to make, yet they feel indulgent and satisfying. Whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a treat for family gatherings, these muffins fit the bill. The pumpkin adds warmth and moisture, while protein powder gives a filling boost that keeps you energized. Baking a batch fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma that makes them impossible to resist.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This pumpkin protein muffins recipe is easy, nutritious, and versatile. It’s ideal for busy mornings, meal prep, or packing in lunchboxes. Pinterest cooks will appreciate that these muffins are freezer-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and protein powder makes each bite satisfying and cozy. You can swap in nuts, chocolate chips, or seeds to change up the flavor while keeping the texture soft and moist. Leftovers stay fresh for several days, making them convenient for quick breakfasts or snacks without extra effort.

Ingredients

Tip: Use canned pumpkin puree for smooth texture and consistent moisture.

  • Pumpkin puree – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 2 large
  • Protein powder – ½ cup
  • Whole wheat flour – 1 cup
  • Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Baking soda – ½ teaspoon
  • Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
  • Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Maple syrup – ¼ cup
  • Milk – ½ cup
  • Coconut oil or butter – 3 tablespoons (melted)
  • Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease. Gather all ingredients to streamline mixing and baking.

See also  Pumpkin Puree Recipe

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix protein powder, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a thick, smooth batter forms.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups. Bake 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool slightly before serving or storing.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

These muffins are fast, make-ahead friendly, and easy to grab on busy mornings. They store well in the fridge or freezer, and leftovers reheat quickly without losing moisture. Pinterest users will love that they can prepare a batch in advance for breakfast, snacks, or post-workout fuel, making morning routines effortless and satisfying.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t overmix batter: Overmixing can make muffins dense. Fold dry ingredients gently until just combined for light, fluffy texture.
  • Measure protein powder carefully: Too much protein powder can dry muffins. Stick to the amount listed to keep them moist and tender.
  • Check baking time early: Ovens vary, so start checking a few minutes before time to avoid overbaking.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, milk, and pumpkin at room temperature blend more smoothly, giving consistent texture and preventing clumps.

Variations

  • Meaty version: Not typically paired with meat, but a savory twist could include diced cooked bacon bits folded into the batter before baking.
  • Vegetarian option: These muffins are already vegetarian; add walnuts or pumpkin seeds for extra protein and crunch.
  • Ingredient swap: Replace whole wheat flour with oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative while keeping them moist.
  • Flavor boost: Stir in chocolate chips, raisins, or a pinch of ginger or cloves to add depth and a seasonal twist.
See also  Pumpkin Spice Latte

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast on the go: Grab a muffin with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick, filling start to the day.
  • Snack plate: Serve with fruit slices or yogurt for a light, satisfying snack during busy afternoons.
  • Post-workout fuel: These muffins pair perfectly with a smoothie or protein shake for recovery and energy.
  • Party or brunch: Arrange on a tray with nuts, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a cozy, Pinterest-ready presentation.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • Reheating: Warm individually in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore softness and aroma.
  • Freezing: Wrap muffins individually or in a sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving.
  • Make-ahead tips: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh in the morning for maximum flavor and moisture.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Rest Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Each muffin contains approximately 180–200 calories and 8–10 grams of protein. Provides carbohydrates from whole wheat flour and natural sweetness, plus fiber and vitamins from pumpkin. Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, you can bake and store them in the fridge or freezer, then reheat before eating.

Yes, whey, plant-based, or blended protein powders all work; adjust liquid slightly if needed.

Using too much flour or overbaking can dry them out. Reduce baking time slightly or add a touch more liquid.

Up to 2 months when wrapped or stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

These pumpkin protein muffins are cozy, soft, and perfect for mornings, snacks, or post-workout fuel. They’re simple to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, making them a practical addition to your weekly meal prep. Moist, flavorful, and packed with gentle sweetness and protein, they bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen while keeping life easy and tasty.

Pumpkin protein muffins

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Pumpkin Recipes
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Soft, flavorful pumpkin muffins packed with protein. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a quick energy boost.

Ingredients

  • Pumpkin puree – 1 cup

  • Eggs – 2 large

  • Protein powder – ½ cup

  • Whole wheat flour – 1 cup

  • Baking powder – 1 teaspoon

  • Baking soda – ½ teaspoon

  • Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon

  • Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon

  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon

  • Maple syrup – ¼ cup

  • Milk – ½ cup

  • Coconut oil or butter – 3 tablespoons (melted)

  • Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
  • Whisk pumpkin, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Combine dry ingredients in another bowl. Fold into wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Spoon into muffin cups and bake 20–25 minutes. Cool slightly before serving.

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