COCOA QUINOA PROTEIN MUFFIN
This Cocoa Quinoa Protein Muffin brings together the wholesome goodness of cooked quinoa, rich cocoa powder and plant-based protein powder in a moist and nourishing single-serve bake. The Almond milk adds creaminess, while a hint of baking powder lifts the crumb, delivering a light and satisfying texture. This cocoa quinoa protein muffin is naturally gluten-free and low in sugar. Each muffin contains a balanced blend of macronutrients with complex carbs from quinoa, healthy fats from almond milk and pure plant protein for muscle support. This cocoa quinoa protein muffin is ideal for breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack or an afternoon pick-me-up; it proves that nutritious and indulgent can coexist. This cocoa quinoa protein muffin is ready in 25 minutes with just five simple ingredients. This muffin elevates your routine with effortless flavour and sustained energy.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Breakfast, Snack
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Bake
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Back to School, Brunch, Picnic, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten‑Free, Low Sodium, Low / No Sugar, Organic, Healthy, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Cake
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon plant-based protein powder
- 1 tablespoon almond milk
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 129.0 kilocalories
- Fat: 2.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 grams
- Carbohydrate: 14.9 grams
- Sugar: 5.2 grams
- Sodium: 266.7 milligrams
- Fibre: 4.2 grams
- Protein: 14.5 grams
- Calcium: 164.5 milligrams
- Iron: 3.9 milligrams
- Potassium: 338.9 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Preheat Oven: Heat to 180 °C (fan 160 °C/Gas Mark 4). Lightly grease a 6 × 3 cm mini loaf tin or line one cavity of a standard muffin tin with a paper liner.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon plant protein powder and ¼ teaspoon baking powder until uniform. This ensures an even rise and chocolate intensity.
- Stir In Quinoa: Fold in 2 tablespoons cooked quinoa, mixing gently so the grains distribute throughout the cocoa‑protein base.
- Add Almond Milk: Pour 1 tablespoon almond milk over the mixture. Use a small spatula to draw in the edges, creating a thick and scoopable batter.
- Transfer To Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with the back of the spoon to level the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Place on the centre rack and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the top is springy to the touch and a skewer inserted into the centre emerges mostly clean.
- Cool And Serve: Allow the muffin to cool in the tin for five minutes. Use a thin knife to loosen the edges, then transfer to a rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20 minutes
TIPS
- Quinoa Texture: Use quinoa cooked just until tender and cooled because excess moisture can yield a gummy crumb.
- Protein Powder: Choose an unflavoured or chocolate-flavoured vegan protein for the best taste, and whey can be substituted if dairy is acceptable.
- Almond Milk: Room‑temperature milk blends more easily and is warmed slightly if straight from the fridge.
- Even Distribution: Whisk dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent pockets of baking powder or cocoa.
- Check Early: Begin testing at 18 minutes, and single‑serve bakes brown quickly.
- Storage Tip: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; refresh in a toaster oven for 2 minutes.
VARIATIONS
- Nut Crunch: Stir in 1 teaspoon chopped hazelnuts or almonds for texture and healthy fats.
- Berry Boost: Fold in 1 tablespoon fresh or frozen raspberries for tangy brightness.
- Spiced Note: Add ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon or chilli powder for warming or spicy complexity.
- Sweet Lift: Drizzle ½ teaspoon maple syrup over the warm muffin for extra gloss and sweetness.
- Seed Sprinkle: Top with ½ teaspoon chia or hemp seeds before baking for added nutrition.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Place cooled muffin in an airtight container; keep refrigerated for up to three days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in parchment, then foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature for ten minutes or warm in a toaster.