I’ve been making almond flour muffins for ages, but let me tell you how my matcha muffin recipe with almond flour came about.
Last weekend, I was at a local farmers market where an elderly Japanese gentleman was selling the most incredible ceremonial grade matcha. As he carefully measured out the vibrant green powder, he shared stories about matcha’s centuries-old traditions and its health benefits.
Despite his strong accent, I somehow managed to understand most of it—perhaps due to his very descriptive hand gestures. It reminded me of the classic “Wax On, Wax Off” scene from The Karate Kid, but with matcha.
Inspired by his passion, I decided it was time to incorporate this magical ingredient into my baking. Recently, I’ve been on a gluten-free kick—not because I’m gluten intolerant, but because many of my clients are. This journey has led me to experiment with all sorts of gluten-free recipes, and I’ve discovered that I genuinely enjoy the lighter, healthier options.
Plus, I have friends who are committed to keto diets. When I visit them, I love bringing along treats that everyone can enjoy. That’s how this matcha muffin recipe with almond flour came to life! These muffins are not only gluten-free but also sugar-free and packed with flavor—a perfect blend of traditional and modern dietary needs.
What is Matcha?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about matcha briefly. It’s a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where you steep the leaves and discard them, matcha allows you to consume the whole leaf, maximizing its health benefits.
Fun fact: matcha contains about three times more caffeine than regular green tea but offers a calm energy boost thanks to its unique amino acids. Perhaps you can skip that cup of coffee in the morning cause you will get the pick-me-up from these matcha muffins. Just kidding, I’d still have it with a cup of coffee. 😄
Why You’ll Love This Matcah Muffin Recipe with Almond Flour
These almond flour matcha muffins are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly nutritious. Here’s why they stand out:
- Healthy Fats and Protein: Almond flour provides a buttery texture while delivering healthy fats and protein, making these muffins satisfying and nourishing.
- Versatile Treat: Whether you’re looking for gluten-free matcha muffins or a keto-friendly snack, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these muffins ready in no time!
Gluten-Free Matcha Muffin Recipe with Almond Flour
Recipe Specifics
Yield: 12 muffins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Matcha Muffins
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder (preferably organic) I use this one.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup organic stevia or you can use unrefined raw sugar if you don’t mind a bit of carbs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Optional Additions For Extra Nutrients And Flavor
Here are some flavor and nutritional boosters that can be added to your matcha muffins with almond flour:
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Adding dark chocolate chips not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidants. Opt for dairy-free options if you’re keeping it vegan.
- Sliced Almonds: Adding sliced almonds on top creates a delightful crunch and texture for these matcha muffins.
- Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. They can help improve the texture of the muffins while adding a nutritional punch.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Matcha Muffins with Almond Flour
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with coconut oil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (if using).
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup of organic stevia, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract until smooth.
Create a well in the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into it. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined; do not overmix.
If desired, mix in optional ingredients like 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips or sliced almonds.
Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.
Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter and sprinkle any desired toppings on top.
Bake for 5 minutes at 400°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Fluffy Muffins
Creating light, airy gluten-free muffins requires some kitchen wizardry:
Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
Gentle Mixing: Stir until ingredients are JUST combined. Overmixing creates dense muffins.
Resting Time: Let batter rest 10 minutes before baking to allow flour hydration.
Oven Trick: Start at 400°F for first 5 minutes, then reduce to 350°F for perfect rise.
The Benefits of Matcha and Almond Flour
Matcha: The Green Color Is Not Just To Look Pretty
Matcha isn’t just trendy; it’s packed with health benefits:
- Antioxidants: Rich in catechins that help protect against cell damage.
- Calm Energy: Contains L-theanine for relaxation without drowsiness, despite the caffeine content.
- Metabolism Boost: May help enhance metabolic rates and fat burning.
Almond Flour: A Nutritious Alternative
Almond flour is an excellent substitute for traditional flours:
- Low in Carbs: Perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
- Nutrient-Dense: High in vitamin E and magnesium.
- Moisture Retention: Keeps baked goods tender and delicious.
- Gluten-Free: Great for celiacs and those who don’t do well with gluten
Matcha vs. Regular Green Tea
While both come from the same plant, matcha and regular green tea have some key differences:
- Taste: Matcha has a richer, more complex flavor compared to the lighter taste of green tea.
- Preparation: Matcha is whisked into hot water, while green tea leaves are steeped and removed.
- Nutrient content: Matcha contains higher concentrations of antioxidants and caffeine than regular green tea.
Final Thoughts
These matcha muffins with almond flour are an exciting addition to your baking repertoire. They’re perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as a healthy snack throughout the day. Plus, they cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet yet nutritious, give this gluten-free matcha muffin recipe with almond flour a try! Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
