Life is what you bake of it. With wholesome ingredients and a dense texture, our almond butter kefir muffins are a nutritious alternative to an on-the-go breakfast or midday snack. Take a bite into these fluffy muffins and embrace the weekend vibes.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are “good” bacteria. They are live microorganisms similar to the ones already living in your gut and may offer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. The word “probiotic” itself is often translated to “beneficial for life.” It is derived from the Latin word “pro” meaning “for” and the Greek word “biotic” meaning “life.” With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion. We’ve discussed before how our brain and gut communicate with each other. Scientists previously thought there was a one-way communication between the brain and the gut, but now realize that it’s a two-way line. Basically, your gut, which is comprised of millions of neurons called the enteric nervous system, is also talking back to your brain. On top of alerting your immune system to foreign invaders, digesting and absorbing nutrients, your gut also produces serotonin. In fact, about 90% of the serotonin in your body is produced by the cells in your gut.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive system.
Servings: 12 muffinsIngredients
- 1 cup Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir
- 2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- 2 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tins with baking wrappers.
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl mix together kefir, almond butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until combined. Stir in chocolate chips as desired.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter into each muffin cup.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until tops are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tins before removing and allowing to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, store in airtight container.