Cupcake with pumpkin seeds
This pumpkin seed cupcake also contains sugar, which isn’t exactly the healthiest thing in the world, but in this recipe we compensate for the sugar with a really healthy superfood, pumpkin seeds! Bake this wonderful cupcake and find out how healthy pumpkin seeds are, which can be eaten in many different ways. After the recipe, you’ll also find our video on how to prepare it. Have fun baking!
The consumption of pumpkin seeds and their physiological effects
It is rich in antioxidants
Pumpkin seeds contain antioxidants such as carotenoids and vitamin E. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and protect cells from harmful free radicals. Therefore, eating foods rich in antioxidants protects against many diseases. It is thought that the high antioxidant content in pumpkin seeds is partly responsible for its positive effects on health. In one study, pumpkin seed oil reduced inflammation in rats with arthritis without side effects, while anti-inflammatory drugs had harmful side effects.
It reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer
A diet rich in pumpkin seeds is associated with a lower risk of stomach, breast, lung, prostate and colon cancer. According to an observational study, eating pumpkin seeds reduces the risk of breast cancer in post-menopausal women. Other studies suggest that the lignans in pumpkin seeds may play a key role in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Further studies have shown that pumpkin seed supplements can slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.
The magnesium content is significant
Pumpkin seeds are one of the best natural sources of magnesium. And magnesium is a mineral that is often deficient in the diets of many Western populations. In the United States, for example, magnesium intake is below the recommended daily allowance for about 79% of adults. Magnesium is required for more than 600 chemical reactions in the human body. Adequate magnesium levels are important for blood pressure, heart function, bones and blood sugar levels.
Contributes to healthy heart function
Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants, magnesium, zinc and fatty acids, all of which contribute to maintaining heart health. Animal studies have also shown that pumpkin seed oil can reduce high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels – two major risk factors for heart disease. In a 12-week study of 35 postmenopausal women, pumpkin seed oil lowered blood pressure by 7%. Other studies suggest that pumpkin seeds may increase the production of nitric oxide in the body, which could be responsible for the positive effects on heart health. Nitric oxide improves blood flow and reduces the risk of plaque build-up in the arteries.
Ingredients:
- 50 g peeled pumpkin seeds
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 1 whole eggs
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 50 ml dark pumpkin seed oil
- 1/2 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Steps:
- Toast the peeled pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over a medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Leave to cool slightly. Set aside a few seeds for decoration.
- Blend (or grind) the pumpkin seeds thoroughly. Add the flour, baking powder and salt and mix well.
- Mix the egg with the pumpkin seed oil, milk and sugar using a whisk. Add the dry ingredients and mix well with a spatula.
- Fill the cupcaken tins (about 12) 3/4 full with the batter. Bake the muffins in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 25 minutes. Leave them to cool.
- Decorate the cupcakes with whipped cream and the toasted pumpkin seeds. Enjoy your cupcake!
Watch our video about this recipe: