recipe Pumpkin Peanut Butter Powder Protein Muffins

As the crisp air of late fall invites us to cozy up and savor seasonal flavors, we can't help but think of pumpkin-spiced delights. If you're looking for a snack or breakfast option that's both healthy and indulgent, these Pumpkin Peanut Butter Powder Protein Muffins are just what you need. Packed with protein, low in sugar, and made with wholesome ingredients like Kakadoodle’s cottage cheese and local honey, this recipe is perfect for fueling your day the clean way.

Why You'll Love These Muffins:

• High Protein: With protein sources including cottage cheese, peanut butter powder, and protein powder, each muffin delivers 9g of protein.
• Low Sugar: Sweetened naturally with Kakadoodle's local honey.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Contains no refined sugar or flour—only clean, health-supportive foods.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese (Kakadoodle – Shop Here)
• 1/3 cup peanut butter powder (e.g., PB2)
• 2 large eggs (Kakadoodle – Shop Here)
• 1/4 cup local honey (Kakadoodle – Shop Here)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder (whey or plant-based)
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional mix-ins: chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly spray with cooking spray.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, Kakadoodle cottage cheese, peanut butter powder, eggs, honey, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix almond flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Fold the mixtures: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
5. Add extras: Gently fold in any optional mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or nuts.
6. Fill the muffin cups: Scoop the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
8. Cool and enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Breakdown (per muffin):

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 7g (1.5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 13g (2g fiber, 11g net carbs)
• Sugars: 5g (includes honey)
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 140mg

Health Benefits:

• Protein Power: The combination of cottage cheese, peanut butter powder, and protein powder supports muscle maintenance and energy.
• Healthy Fats: Almond flour and cottage cheese provide good fats for heart health.
• Natural Sweetness: Kakadoodle's local honey adds subtle sweetness with added vitamins and antioxidants.

Support Local, Eat Clean

These muffins are more than just a tasty treat; they’re a testament to the goodness of local and sustainable eating. By choosing Kakadoodle products, you’re not only opting for great flavor but also contributing to a healthier lifestyle for your family and supporting community farmers.

Recipe by Erin Utz, MS, RD, LDN.
About Erin: Erin, based in Orland Park, is a Registered Dietitian and certified in weight management for adults and pediatrics. Her expertise spans family nutrition, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and health/wellness coaching. As a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) and group fitness instructor, Erin has authored original articles on topics including Leptin, sports nutrition, and weight loss.