Name: Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup dates (halved and packed (140 grams)); ½ cup zucchini (grated); ¼ cup applesauce (unsweetened); ¼ cup almond milk (unsweetened vanilla); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg egg (or egg substitute); 1 cup oat flour ((103 grams)); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

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These Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce are a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome breakfast or snack. I remember the first time I made them; I had a basket full of fresh zucchinis from my garden and a sudden craving for something sweet yet nutritious. The combination of zucchini and applesauce creates a moist and flavorful muffin that satisfies both my taste buds and my health goals. As I mixed the ingredients, the sweet aroma filled my kitchen, making it impossible to resist tasting the batter. It’s like a warm hug on a busy morning, and I couldn’t wait to share the batch with my family. Each bite is tender, packed with nutrition, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without the guilt.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
22 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Grater, Oven, Baking Sheet, Blender, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

Why This Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce Stands Out

They’re Nutrient-Dense

One of the best things about these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce is how nutrient-dense they are. Zucchini is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it an excellent addition to any diet. Plus, using applesauce allows you to reduce the amount of added sugar while keeping the muffins moist and flavorful.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love to meal prep, these muffins are perfect! They keep well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them a convenient snack or breakfast option for busy mornings. Just grab one on your way out, and you’re set!

Versatile Ingredients

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit. If you want a bit of chocolatey goodness, toss in a handful of mini chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!

Kid-Friendly Treat

These muffins are also a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. My kids never suspect they’re eating healthy when they devour these delicious muffins. It’s a win-win situation!

Quick and Easy

Lastly, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch in no time. It’s a simple, straightforward recipe that yields delicious results.

What to Buy for Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce

When preparing to make these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce, it’s vital to choose fresh, quality ingredients that will work in harmony. The main players here are zucchini, dates, and oat flour, which provide moisture, sweetness, and a lovely texture. Each ingredient contributes to making these muffins healthy yet delicious.

¾ cup of dates, halved and packed (140 grams)
½ cup of zucchini, grated
¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 egg or egg substitute
1 cup of oat flour (103 grams)
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
1 teaspoon of baking powder
¼ teaspoon of salt
3 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips

Making This Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce

Making these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with sweet, inviting scents. Let’s get started on this easy baking adventure that results in scrumptious muffins!

Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray 7 cavities of a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial to ensure the muffins come out perfectly without sticking. I find it’s best to use a light spray, so the muffins have a nice golden color.
Place the dates into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until just warm, about 30 seconds. This softening process makes it easier to blend them into the mixture. Warm dates are easier to incorporate and provide a natural sweetness to the muffins.
Add the warm dates to a large food processor (mine is 10 cups) along with the zucchini, applesauce, almond milk, vanilla, and egg. Blend until combined, stopping to scrape the sides down as needed. The mixture will be slightly chunky, which is perfectly fine.
Combine the remaining ingredients, except the chocolate chips, in a medium bowl. This includes the oat flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Add the zucchini mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well mixed. Make sure you get all the flour incorporated; don’t hesitate to use a spatula for this step.
Finally, stir in the mini chocolate chips. This is where the muffins get their delightful sweetness and a pop of chocolate flavor that everyone loves.
Fill the 7 greased muffin cavities just over half full. I like to use an ice cream scoop for nice, domed tops, but you can use a spoon if you prefer. The muffins will rise as they bake, so don’t overfill them.
Bake until browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 20 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Running a sharp knife around the edge of each muffin helps them come out easily. After cooling, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and enjoy the wonderful aroma!
DEVOUR. Seriously, you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Things Worth Knowing

Tip for Grating Zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it. This helps the muffins maintain a good texture.
Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Freezing: You can freeze these muffins! Just place them in a freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Variations: Try adding nuts or swapping out the chocolate chips for dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
Testing for Doneness: Always use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready!

Tips and Tricks about Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce

There’s nothing quite like having a few tips up your sleeve when baking. Here are some handy tips for making the best Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce:

Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchini and quality dates to ensure the best flavor.
Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until combined.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Serve warm: These muffins are best served warm. A quick reheat in the microwave for a few seconds is all they need!
Perfect for gatherings: These muffins make a perfect addition to brunch or a potluck, ensuring everyone can enjoy a healthy treat.

Serving Ideas for Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce

When it comes to serving these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce, the possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful ideas:

For Breakfast: Enjoy one of these muffins alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea to start your day off right.
Snack Time: They make a perfect afternoon snack for both kids and adults. Pair with a piece of fruit for a balanced snack.
Brunch Gatherings: Serve them at your next brunch gathering. They can complement a fruit platter or yogurt bar beautifully.
On-the-Go: These muffins are excellent for busy mornings. Pack them in lunchboxes or take them on road trips.
Warm with Toppings: Try warming them slightly and adding a smear of nut butter or a dollop of yogurt on top for an indulgent treat.
Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve them with a hot cider, or in the spring, pair with a refreshing mint tea.

FAQ

Yes, you can easily make these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce vegan by using an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Just make sure to check the ingredients in your almond milk and chocolate chips for any hidden animal products.

When stored in an airtight container, these muffins can last for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to keep them longer, freezing them is a great option!

Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and add a nice crunch to these Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce. Just mix them in before baking for a delightful twist!

These muffins are versatile and can be served with a spread of nut butter, some yogurt, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea as well!

Conclusion

These Healthy Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins With Applesauce are a fantastic addition to any meal or snack time. They not only taste great but also pack a nutritional punch that makes them a smart choice for everyone. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed. Your family and friends will love them, and they might just become your new go-to muffin recipe!