Mocha Espresso Protein Muffins – High-Protein Breakfast with a Kick

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If your mornings require caffeine AND protein to function like a normal human, these Mocha Espresso Protein Muffins are about to be your new best friend.

Packed with bold coffee flavor, rich chocolatey goodness, and a solid dose of protein, they’re the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or post-workout snack.

They’re fluffy, slightly sweet, and have just enough espresso kick to make you feel like you’re being productive—even if you’re still in pajamas.

Plus, each muffin has over 10 grams of protein, so you can feel good about indulging in one (or two… or three, no judgment here).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed Goodness: With whey or plant-based protein powder, Greek yogurt, and eggs, these muffins deliver a protein boost that actually keeps you full.
• Caffeinated Kick: Real espresso powder gives these muffins a rich coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
• Naturally Sweetened: A combination of maple syrup and ripe banana keeps things lightly sweet without refined sugar overload.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ve got breakfast or snacks ready to go.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the flour for oat flour or a gluten-free blend to make these friendly for gluten-sensitive folks.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• ½ cup chocolate or vanilla protein powder
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large banana, mashed (or ½ cup unsweetened applesauce)
• ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee or milk of choice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-Ins & Toppings

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 tablespoons chopped espresso beans for extra crunch (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or lightly grease it with coconut oil.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Whole wheat flour
• Protein powder
• Cocoa powder
• Instant espresso powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Set aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mash & Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Then whisk in:

• Maple syrup
• Greek yogurt
• Eggs
• Brewed coffee (or milk)
• Vanilla extract

Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine & Fold in the Chocolate

Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do NOT overmix—a few lumps are okay.

Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped espresso beans if using.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly between the 12 muffin cups, filling each about ¾ of the way full.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (or with just a few melted chocolate smudges).

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now comes the hard part: resisting the urge to eat all of them immediately.

Tips for the Best Mocha Espresso Muffins

✔ Use fresh espresso powder. The coffee flavor is key, so don’t skimp on quality.
✔ Swap the sweetener. Maple syrup, honey, or even mashed dates all work beautifully.
✔ Make them dairy-free. Sub the Greek yogurt for a plant-based option like coconut yogurt.
✔ For a stronger coffee kick, replace the milk with extra brewed coffee.
✔ Freeze for later! Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months—just microwave for 15-20 seconds before eating.

Nutrition (Per Muffin)

• Calories: ~185
• Protein: ~11g
• Carbs: ~24g
• Fat: ~5g
• Sugar: ~9g

Final Thoughts

These Mocha Espresso Protein Muffins are the ultimate way to caffeinate your morning while getting in some solid protein. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need a quick pick-me-up, they’re guaranteed to satisfy both your chocolate and coffee cravings.

Go ahead—whip up a batch and make your mornings a little more delicious!

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