Protein Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Protein Muffins are not only delicious but also nutritious. They’re packed with high-quality protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more protein to their diet. The ripe banana or applesauce offers natural sweetness, while the oat flour provides fiber for sustained energy. The added dark chocolate chips (optional) bring a touch of indulgence without compromising the health benefits. These muffins are easy to make and perfect for meal prep, ensuring you always have a tasty and healthy option available!

Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• ⅔ cup (180 g) Greek yogurt, 2% fat or full fat recommended
• 4 oz (115 g) ripe banana, or ½ cup (120 g) applesauce
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) maple syrup, or honey
• 1 ½ cups (150 g) oat flour, or almond flour
• ½ cup (50 g) protein powder, see notes
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅙ tsp salt
• 3 to 6 tbsp milk of choice, see notes
• ¼ cup (50 g) dark chocolate chips, optional

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, Greek yogurt, mashed ripe banana (or applesauce), and maple syrup (or honey).
3. Add the oat flour (or almond flour), protein powder, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the milk, starting with 3 tablespoons. Mix until the batter is thick but smooth. If you prefer a thinner batter, add up to 3 more tablespoons of milk.
5. Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips (if using).
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Enjoy as a quick breakfast or snack!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 18-22 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Protein Powder: Use flavored protein powder, such as chocolate or vanilla, for a unique twist on these muffins.
• Fruit Add-ins: Add blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples to the batter for added flavor and texture.
• Nutty Option: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for some crunch and extra protein.
• Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and dairy-free yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
• Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol instead of maple syrup or honey for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute oat flour with almond flour or whole wheat flour, but the texture may change slightly. Make sure to adjust the liquid content if needed.

2. What type of protein powder should I use?

Whey protein works well, but you can also use plant-based protein powder if you prefer. Be mindful of how the flavor of the protein powder may affect the overall taste.

3. Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or chia egg for a vegan version.

4. Can I add other mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruit like cranberries or chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.

5. How can I make these muffins sweeter?

If you like sweeter muffins, you can add extra maple syrup or honey, or you could incorporate sweetened dried fruit such as raisins or dates.

6. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or honey with a sugar-free sweetener such as stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit, but adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

7. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, these muffins freeze well. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven.

8. Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of banana?

Yes, unsweetened applesauce works as a great substitute for banana, giving the muffins a slightly different flavor but still keeping them moist.

9. How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If they still seem wet, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.

10. Can I make mini muffins instead of regular-sized muffins?

Yes, you can make mini muffins! Just reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

These Protein Muffins are a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and delicious flavors, making them ideal for anyone looking for a quick, protein-packed snack or breakfast. Whether you’re making them for yourself or for the whole family, these muffins are sure to satisfy cravings while fueling your body with the nutrients it needs. Enjoy them as a wholesome snack or grab one before your workout to keep you energized!

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