Protein Packed Ricotta Almond Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup low-carb sweetener (like erythritol or monk fruit), or to taste
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, enhances almond flavor)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, adds a refreshing citrus note)
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries or blackberries (optional but recommended)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick spray.
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Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine almond flour, protein powder, baking powder, and sweetener. Stir until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and lemon zest.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the Berries: Gently fold in the blueberries or blackberries.
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Scoop into Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden.
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Cool and Serve: Let muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage
Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage and reheat as needed.
What They Taste Like
- Texture: These muffins have a creamy, slightly dense texture due to the ricotta and almond flour, but the protein powder adds a bit of fluffiness.
- Flavor: Mildly sweet and nutty with a hint of creaminess from the ricotta. If you add almond extract, you’ll get a lovely almond undertone, and the lemon zest adds a refreshing hint if included.
- Fruit Addition: The blueberries or blackberries add bursts of tangy sweetness that balance the mild flavor of the batter.
These muffins make for a satisfying, protein-rich breakfast that feels indulgent while being low-carb. Enjoy!