High-Protein, Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins

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These high-protein, chocolate pumpkin muffins are the kind of snack that checks every box—nutritious, satisfying, and seriously delicious. I created this recipe with busy mornings and midday cravings in mind, using simple, wholesome ingredients that bring both flavor and function. Pumpkin keeps them soft and naturally sweet, while cocoa and vanilla make each bite rich and cozy. With a boost of plant-based protein and the heartiness of oat flour, these muffins offer lasting energy without the sugar crash. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving something sweet-but-smart, this recipe is a feel-good favorite you’ll want to make on repeat.

What You Need

For these high-protein, chocolate pumpkin muffins, I focused on using ingredients that pack a punch in both nutrition and flavor. The base of the recipe is canned pumpkin, which gives the muffins a moist texture and subtle sweetness without overpowering the chocolate.

To boost the protein, I incorporated plant-based protein powder, along with oat flour that adds fiber and keeps the muffins hearty. Cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate taste, balanced by a touch of natural sweetener like maple syrup to keep everything delicious but not too sweet.

A bit of baking powder and baking soda help the muffins rise nicely, while unsweetened almond milk adds creaminess without any dairy. Lastly, I add a little cinnamon and vanilla extract to enhance the seasonal pumpkin flavor. This combination makes the muffins wholesome, moist, and packed with protein.

Preparing The Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the wet ingredients first. Combine the canned pumpkin, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and well blended.

In a separate bowl, sift together the oat flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures the cocoa powder and flour are clump-free for a smoother batter.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, gently folding them until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and fluffy. The batter will have a thick, rich consistency, perfect for spooning into your muffin tin.

Tool Requirements

For these muffins, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools that hopefully you already have on hand. First, a standard muffin tin that holds 8 cups is essential for shaping and baking the muffins evenly. If you want, you can line it with paper muffin liners for easier cleanup.

A couple of mixing bowls and a whisk or a wooden spoon are needed to combine your ingredients. I like using a silicone spatula for folding the batter since it scrapes every bit from the bowl efficiently.

Finally, an oven thermometer can be helpful to ensure your oven maintains the right temperature, so your muffins bake perfectly every time. And, of course, a measuring cup and spoons for accuracy in your ingredient portions.

Serving Suggestions

These high-protein, chocolate pumpkin muffins are wonderfully versatile, perfect for breakfast on the go or a healthy afternoon snack. Here are some fun ways I like to serve them:

• Spread with a smear of almond or peanut butter for an extra dose of healthy fats and creaminess.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a handful of berries for a vibrant contrast in flavors.
• Pair with a warm cup of your favorite plant-based milk latte for that cozy autumn vibe.
• Top with a dollop of coconut yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup for a decadent, dairy-free treat.

Storage Tips

Keeping these muffins fresh and tasty is easy with the right storage methods. Here’s what works best for me:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place muffins in the fridge, where they’ll keep for about 5 days without losing their moist texture.
• Want to save them for even later? Wrap each muffin individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
• If reheating, I recommend a quick 15 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a toaster oven to revive that freshly baked softness.

High-Protein, Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins

Looking for an easy, delicious snack packed with protein? These High-Protein Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins are moist, flavorful, and perfect for fall mornings or afternoon treats. Made with oat flour, plant-based protein powder, and natural sweeteners, this recipe is wholesome and energizing. Plus, the unique twist of combining cocoa with pumpkin creates the ultimate mood-boosting combo. Save this recipe for your meal prep or weekend baking because these muffins are sure to become a new favorite! Vegan-friendly and totally share-worthy!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1/2 cup plant-based protein powder chocolate or vanilla
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• In another bowl, sift oat flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
• Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
• Spoon the batter evenly into a greased or lined 8-cup muffin tin.
• Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow muffins to cool before removing from the tin. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 12gFat: 5g

Keyword Vegan

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Stefan K.

Stefan has been vegan since 2019 and has been regularly working on his strength since the beginning of 2023. He’s on a mission to help other vegans get stronger and have all of them achieve the quality of life they deserve.