Small-Batch Pumpkin Protein Muffins

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Small-Batch Pumpkin Protein Muffins

Prep time: 10 mins | Bake time: 20–23 mins | Yields: 4 Muffins

Ingredients

The Wet Base

  • 1/2 cup Pumpkin purée (ensure it is 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)

  • 1/2 cup Low-fat cottage cheese (blended for a smoother texture, or leave as-is for moisture)

  • 1 large Egg

  • 2 tbsp Your preferred sweetener (monk fruit, stevia, or maple syrup)

  • 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

The Dry Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup Vanilla whey protein powder

  • 1/4 cup Blanched almond flour

  • 1 tsp Baking powder

  • 1 tsp Pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)

  • 1 pinch Sea salt

The Topping (Optional)

  • 1 tbsp Chopped pecans or pumpkin seeds

Detailed Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 4 cups of a standard muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease them with non-stick cooking spray.

  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, cottage cheese, egg, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is well-combined and bright orange.

    • Pro Tip: If you prefer a completely smooth muffin texture, pulse the wet ingredients in a blender for 30 seconds.

  3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the vanilla whey protein, almond flour, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt. Fold the mixture gently with a spatula until the flour streaks disappear. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make protein-based muffins a bit rubbery.

  4. Fill the Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the 4 prepared muffin cups. They should be filled about 3/4 of the way full to allow for rising.

  5. Add Texture: Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of each muffin for a satisfying crunch.

  6. Bake: Place in the center rack of the oven and bake for 20–23 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few dry crumbs.

  7. Cooling: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. This is a crucial step for protein muffins, as they “set” while cooling.

Nutritional Profile (Per Muffin)

Calories Protein Carbs Fat
~128 kcal ~12 g ~6 g ~6 g

Storage Tip

Because of the high moisture content from the cottage cheese and pumpkin, these muffins stay incredibly soft. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for a quick grab-and-go breakfast later!

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