Can I add protein powder to zucchini muffins?

Absolutely. Adding protein powder is one of the easiest ways to boost the nutritional value of air fryer protein zucchini muffins. Just make sure to reduce the flour by a couple of tablespoons to balance the dry ingredients. Use a high-quality whey or plant-based powder with a neutral or vanilla flavor to keep the taste on point.

Can I add protein powder to zucchini bread?

Yes, and it works similarly to muffins. When adapting zucchini bread recipes like my blueberry zucchini bread , you can add one scoop of protein powder per loaf. Again, cut back slightly on flour and don’t overmix to keep the texture moist—not gummy.

Why are my zucchini muffins soggy?

Soggy air fryer protein zucchini muffins usually come from excess moisture in the zucchini. While you want to keep some of that natural water to maintain softness, avoid overly watery zucchini. If your shredded zucchini is dripping, lightly blot it with paper towel—don’t squeeze it completely dry. Also, check your bake time. Undercooked muffins can look done on top but remain wet inside. Always test with a toothpick in the center.

Can I use paper muffin cups in an air fryer?

Yes, but with caution. Paper liners tend to shift or fold in air fryer baskets due to circulating air. For the best results, place paper cups inside silicone or metal molds. This helps your air fryer protein zucchini muffins hold shape and prevents liners from flying around. Silicone muffin cups are my go-to—they’re sturdy, reusable, and perfect for even baking.

Air Fryer Protein Zucchini Muffins – Easy 4-Step Recipe Moist & Delicious

Name: Air Fryer Protein Zucchini Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4 muffins
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup all purpose flour; ¼ cup +2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼-½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); ¼ cup finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional); 1 large egg; 2½ tablespoons vegetable oil; ½ cup shredded zucchini (packed, not squeezed); 3 tablespoons milk (2% or whole); ½ teaspoon vanilla

Description

Quick and moist air fryer protein zucchini muffins packed with flavor and a healthy dose of protein. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

¾ cup all purpose flour

¼ cup +2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¼–½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

¼ cup finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

1 large egg

2½ tablespoons vegetable oil

½ cup shredded zucchini (packed, not squeezed)

3 tablespoons milk (2% or whole)

½ teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nuts or chips if using.

2. In a medium bowl, beat egg slightly and stir in oil, zucchini, milk, and vanilla.

3. Add wet ingredients to dry and stir just until combined (about 15 stirs). Do not overmix.

4. Divide batter into 4 muffin cups. Place in air fryer basket and bake at 320°F (160°C) for 15–17 minutes. Let cool before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.

Use silicone cups to prevent liner collapse.

Add protein powder by replacing 2 tablespoons of flour.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 17 minutes
Category: Snacks
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 148
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 108mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 36mg

Keywords: air fryer protein zucchini muffins, healthy zucchini muffins, protein muffins, easy air fryer recipe