Pumpkin Spice Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins

Pumpkin Spice Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins are the perfect way to welcome the cozy flavors of fall while keeping your nutrition on track. These high-protein muffins are not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will fuel your day. The combination of pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, and warm spices makes every bite feel like a festive celebration. With minimal prep and bake time, you’ll want to keep these muffins as a staple in your kitchen throughout the autumn season!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (240 mL; full-fat or low-fat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree (120 mL; not pie filling)
  • ¼ cup honey, maple syrup, or preferred sweetener (60 mL)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 mL)
  • 1 ½ cups oat flour (180 g; or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (about 25 g)
  • 1 tsp baking powder (5 g)
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (5 g)
  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
  2. In a blender, combine cottage cheese, eggs, pumpkin puree, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined into a thick batter; avoid overmixing.
  5. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tops should spring back when lightly pressed.
  7. Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Nutrition Info (per muffin): Approximately 120 calories, 8g protein, 19g carbs, 3g fat

How to serve

Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins warm, straight from the oven, or allow them to cool completely for a delightful breakfast or snack throughout the week. Pair them with a smear of almond butter or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. These muffins also make a perfect addition to your fall brunch table, impressing guests with their unique flavors and nutritious profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup?
Yes! Feel free to use any preferred sweetener, such as stevia or erythritol, adjusting the quantity to taste.

2. How do I store Pumpkin Spice Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins?
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

3. Are these muffins gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the oat flour with almond flour to make these muffins gluten-free and enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture.