Squash and Date Muffins
By Danielle Shea-Tan, MS, CHHC
Functional Family Nutritionist
Enjoy all the moist, yumminess of squash muffins but without the added sugar found in traditional muffins!
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Muffins have become America’s favorite on-the-go breakfast option, but most of the choices available (homemade recipes or store-bought) are filled with more added sugar than a traditional donut! Dates are the “star” of this muffin recipe providing the rich, sweetness expected in traditional baked goods. Unlike refined sugar, dates are a source of B vitamins, potassium, magnesium and several other important microminerals. Danielle has added in protein-packed hemp seeds and fiber-rich oats to create a hearty breakfast that fits in the palm of your hand. Inspired by Pinch of Yum’s Wholesome 5-Ingredient Banana Bread Muffins.
Squash and Date Muffins
Yields
10-12 regular-sized muffins
Cook Time
18 - 22 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 c dates not packed
- 1 ½ c gf oats divided (1c, ½ c)
- ½ c hemp seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 c mashed butternut squash* (homemade or canned)
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup Enjoy Life chocolate chips or organic raisins (optional)
Optional
chocolate chips or raisins
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350℉.
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lay out silicone muffin cups on cookie sheet.
- Add all ingredients to a food processor bowl, except ½ cup of oats and chocolate chips or raisins. Blend well.
- Remove blade and mix in the remaining oats. Separate out batter to be used for baby.
- In remaining batter, add chocolate chips or raisins.
- Fill muffin cups almost to the top.
- Bake for 18- 22 min. Insert toothpick and when it comes out clean your muffins are done.
Note* If using canned butternut squash, be sure to drain excess liquid or the muffins will not set up properly.
For the ages
For Babies: BLW
Like you, your baby is going to love biting into this moist muffin that’s loaded with wholesome nutrients!
Portion Size:
1 mini muffin or ½ regular-sized muffin
Ingredients:
plain muffin
Serving Tip(s):Serve half of a regular-sized muffin or mini muffin that’s perfectly sized for little hands in a mini bowl. When serving for the first time, try alongside other foods that your baby likes such as Cinnamon Stewed Apples
For Babies: Traditional
Offering your older infant naturally sweetened homemade muffins will make their little mouths sing!
Portion Size:
1 mini muffin or ½ regular-sized muffin (see serving tip)
Ingredients:
plain muffin
Serving Tip(s):Once your baby has moved from purees to firmer foods, serve small bite-sized pieces of muffin (approximately ¼ inch square) in a mini bowl so your baby can practice her pincer grip and taste the muffin on her own.
For Toddlers
Your toddler might just beg for “More Muffins, Please” because this muffin recipe is moist, delicious and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Portion Size:
1 regular-sized muffin, 2 mini muffins.
Ingredients:
chocolate chip or raisin muffins
Serving Tip(s):Serve one regular-sized muffin or two mini muffins in a happy bowl or in a happy mat if served alongside other foods such as Cinnamon Stewed Apples.
For Grown-Ups
Grab your favorite hot beverage and settle in to savor the natural sweetness of these gems.
Portion Size:
1 - 2 regular-sized muffins, 2-4 mini muffins
Ingredients:
chocolate chip or raisin muffins
Serving Tip(s):Serve 1-2 muffins warm (or room temperature) alongside your favorite hot beverage!
Happy Eating!
Danielle Shea-Tan, MS, CHHC
Functional Family Nutritionist
Danielle is passionate about helping families ditch processed foods and start making real, wholesome food that is both simple and delicious. She blows our minds with fascinating "nutritional nuggets" about foods and herbs. Danielle also recently wrote a book called "52 Small Changes for the Family," an inspiring guide that helps families make one small change each week to improve their overall happiness and health. You can learn more about Danielle at HealthyMamas.com.
