This small batch of vegan protein lemon crumb muffins are an amazing healthy treat to make in the summer that will definitely leave you wanting more. With no oil, little sugar, no flour, and protein in the crumble top, this muffin is completely guilt free and oh so delicious.
Key Ingredients
Oat flour: oat flour is less refined than all purpose flour and contains many more antioxidants and vitamins. If you do not have this on hand, simply ground regular rolled oats in a food processor or high speed blender.
Lemon extract: this gives the muffins a bigger lemon flavour, and it’s great when you don’t have fresh lemons on hand.
Unsweetened applesauce: because this muffin is oil free and vegan, the applesauce provides moisture in addition to being a substitute for eggs.
Protein bar: here I used the @Misfits Lemon Cheesecake Protein bar which is vegan and low in sugar!
Almond vs. Oat Flour
Almond Flour:
- Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- It’s low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
- Almond flour adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to baked goods, enhancing their taste.
- It’s a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber, contributing to overall health.
Oat Flour:
- Oat flour is rich in dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucans, which help lower cholesterol and promote heart health.
- It provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements various recipes without dominating the taste.
- Oat flour offers more complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy and a feeling of fullness.
- Oat flour is beneficial for digestive health due to its high fiber content.
Applesauce in Muffins?
- Moisture: Applesauce adds moisture to muffins, keeping them from becoming dry.
- Reduced Fat: It can replace some or all of the fat (like butter or oil) in the recipe, reducing the overall fat content.
- Natural Sweetness: Applesauce adds a touch of natural sweetness, reducing the need for excessive sugar.
- Flavor: It imparts a pleasant apple flavor to the muffins.
- Healthier Option: Using unsweetened applesauce is a healthier alternative, especially in recipes with added sugars.
- Texture: It can contribute to a softer, more tender texture in the muffins.
Small Batch Vegan Protein Lemon Crumb Muffin
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350F and line a muffin tin with 4 muffin liners.
- Combine the oat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and lemon zest until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the apple sauce, milk, lemon juice and extract together. Pour the wet mixture into the dry, and fold using spatula until just combined.
- Scoop batter into the prepared muffin liners.
- Chop the protein bar into small pieces. Combine with almond flour and apple sauce and spoon mixture evenly onto muffin batter. Bake muffins for 18 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
- Once the muffins are done, allow to cool for at least 15 minutes.
- Combine the sugar and milk. Drizzle on top of cooled muffins and allow to set for several minutes before serving.
