Category Archives: Dessert

Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart – Easy 30-Minute Dessert

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If you’ve spent any time on social media in the past year, you’ve probably seen the Dubai chocolate craze taking over feeds everywhere. Rich chocolate, pistachios, and Middle Eastern-inspired flavors? I’m definitely here for it with this easy pie crust dessert recipe that I updated with my own spin– Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart.  

Instead of recreating the original exactly, I wanted to make it quick and easy (like using pie crust instead of phyllo or toasted kataifi)– and of course, pay tribute to the warm, rich flavors that remind me of my tastings of this trendy chocolate bar and also traditional baklava: naturally sweet dates, crunchy pistachios, fragrant spices like cinnamon. The result is a giant shareable tart that’s easy enough for weeknights yet pretty enough for entertaining.

Simple ingredients, simple steps, simply delicious!

Even better? This chocolate pistachio date tart contains no added sugar when made with sugar-free dark chocolate chips (though regular dark chocolate chips work beautifully too if that’s your preference – you do you)!

As hinted, the filling is tucked between two ready-to-bake pie dough circles from Wick’s Pies, baked until lightly golden, then topped with melted chocolate and extra pistachios for the perfect finishing touch.  Slice it into eight wedges for an easy anytime treat that also can slide in seamlessly as the finishing touch on an elegant meal.

Why I Love Keeping Wick’s Pie Dough Circles in My Freezer

One kitchen shortcut I always keep on hand? Raw, ready-to-bake pie dough circles from Wick’s Pies. I love having these raw dough circles stashed in the freezer because they make both sweet and savory recipes incredibly easy. There’s no measuring, rolling, or worrying about making homemade pie dough from scratch. You don’t have to be a pie expert to create bakery-worthy dishes at a moment’s notice.

Whether I’m whipping up desserts like this tart or savory creations, having ready-to-use pie dough means homemade comfort food is always within reach. Today’s recipe is swee,t but one of my favorite savory go-to recipes is my Rustic Mushroom Bacon Blue Tart with Garlic Thyme Pastry Leaves.

Dessert with Baklava, Dubai Chocolate & Giant Pop Tart Vibes

This easy 30-minute dessert recipe is simple but incredibly flavorful:

  • Dates for natural sweetness
  • Pistachios for crunch and nutty richness
  • Cinnamon for spiced warmth
  • Dark chocolate for indulgence
  • No rolling and wrangling pie dough, just sandwich the filling between pre-formed pie dough circles and crimp.

Once baked, I sprinkle chocolate chips directly onto the hot tart while it’s cooling. The residual heat melts the chocolate into a glossy topping—this is my go-to ganache-inspired hack (no need to dirty another bowl). A quick swipe with a spatula and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and dessert is served.

Leta me know if you try this simple pie crust dessert idea —  and don’t forget to checkout Wick’s Pies (on Instagram and Facebook, too).

#BakeWithWicks, #WicksPieCreations, #WicksRecipeChallenge

Inspired by the Dubai chocolate trend, this no-added-sugar Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart combines dates, cinnamon, pistachios, and sugar-free dark chocolate inside convenient Wick's pie dough circles for an easy dessert with baklava vibes.
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Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

Inspired by the Dubai chocolate trend, this no-added-sugar Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart combines dates, cinnamon, pistachios, and sugar-free dark chocolate inside convenient Wick's pie dough circles for an easy dessert with Middle-eastern baklava + chocolate vibes.

Course: Dessert
Servings: 8 wedges
Calories: 413 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 8 or 9-inch frozen, thawed pie crust dough circles I used dough from Wick's Pies
  • 6 oz pitted dates see recipe step #1 to pre-soak
  • 2/3 cup raw pistachios divided (see recipe instructions)
  • 2/3 cup sugar free dark chocolate chips divided (see recipe instructions)
  • 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg
  • Water
Instructions
  1. In bowl, cover dates with water and soak for 30-60 minutes until pump and softened. Drain off excess water.
  2. Pre-heat oven to 400F degrees.

  3. To food processor, add all pistachios and pulse until chopped – remove and RESERVE 2 tablespoons for the topping.

  4. With the remaining chopped raw pistachios remaining in food processor, add 3 cup of the chocolate chips, ground cinnamon, and 1-2 tablespoons of water. Pulse for approximately 60-90 seconds until a coarse paste as formed.

  5. Place one dough circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan. Top dough with paste mixture, gently spreading and flattening out with spatula or hands to 1-inch of the border. Use a pastry brush to coated exposed dough edge with water.

  6. Add second dough circle on top, keeping in line with the edges of the bottom dough. Use a fork to crimp dough edges together around the entire diameter.

  7. In small bowl, whisk egg with 1 tablespoon water. Use pastry brush to coat the top layer of dough with the egg wash (discard remaining egg mixture). Use fork to lightly puncture the top layer of dough in a few places.
  8. Place on center rack of pre-heated 400F oven and back for 18-20 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Turn off oven.

  9. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with remaining 1/3 cup chocolate chips. Set back in turned off (but still hot) oven for 2-3 minutes to soften the chocolate chips.

  10. Remove from oven and with an off-set spatula, spread melted chocolate chips around to create the “icing.” While still warm, sprinkle top of chocolate with the reserved pistachios.
  11. Let cool 10 minutes before, slicing into 8 wedges.
Recipe Notes

Make Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix Recipe: Enjoy a Fresh Muffin in 2 Minutes, Anytime.

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Some mornings call for a leisurely homemade breakfast. Other mornings, you just need something quick, satisfying, and packed with protein. That’s exactly why I created this Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix.

With one batch of dry mix prepped ahead of time, you can enjoy a warm, fluffy protein muffin whenever the craving strikes. Yeah, single-serve mug muffins are easy – but now you don’t even have to measure out each ingredient, it’s all waiting for you to scoop out and use. To prepare a single muffin, simply add an egg, a little water, and your favorite mashed fruit, then pop it in the microwave along with 1/3 cup of the mix. In about two minutes, you’ll have a hearty muffin that will fill you up and keep you going.

Why You’ll Love This Protein Mug Muffin Mix

Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean breakfast has to suffer. This recipe bridges the gap between convenience and nutrition by delivering: 

  • Nearly 20 grams of protein per serving
  • A warm, fresh-made muffin in minutes
  • Easy pantry storage for up to 6 months
  • Endless flavor customization options
  • A satisfying breakfast, snack, or healthier dessert

The Secret to a Better Protein Mug Muffin

For this recipe, I used Nourify Plus protein powder from Previnex (use my Previnex discount code to save 15%: THEFITFORK) . I love that this is a plant-based protein supplement , easy to digest, and provides more than just protein. It includes additional nutritional support that helps make every serving a little more nourishing.

I’ve also added chia seeds to the mix for a boost of fiber and texture and coconut milk powder (so as not needing to have fresh milk on had when the muffin mood hits). Combined with oat flour, the result is a muffin that’s moist, hearty, and filling without feeling heavy.

Customize Every Muffin

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Each mug muffin can have a completely different flavor profile depending on what you add.  It does call for a couple tablespoons of mashed fruit to keep the muffin moist (try banana, pumpkin or applesauce) – but along with this you can mix in nuts, chocolate chips, coconut flakes or whatever floats your muffin-munching boat. You can even switch up the protein powder flavor to create endless combinations.

Perfect for Meal Prep

The beauty of this recipe is that the work happens upfront. Simply mix the dry ingredients together and store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready for breakfast, scoop out a serving, add the wet ingredients, and microwave. No measuring multiple ingredients. No dirty mixing bowls. No waiting for the oven to preheat.

It’s an easy solution for busy weekdays, post-workout snacks, afternoon cravings, or those moments when you want something comforting without spending time in the kitchen.

Nutrition Highlights

While nutrition may vary slightly depending on the protein powder, sweetener, and fruit used. Each prepared serving (made with 1/3 cup of mix, 1 large egg egg and 2 tablespoons mashed banana) provides approximately:

  • 300 calories
  • 19.3g protein
  • 28g carbohydrates
  • 12g fat
Prep this easy Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix once and enjoy fresh, fluffy high-protein muffins in just 2 minutes. Perfect for busy breakfasts, snacks, or healthy desserts.
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Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
2 mins
 

Prep this easy Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix once and enjoy fresh, fluffy high-protein muffins in just 2 minutes. Perfect for busy breakfasts, snacks, or healthy desserts.

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack, workout
Cuisine: high protein, vegetarian
Keyword: microwave, mug muffin, protein powder
Servings: 10 muffins
Calories: 300 kcal
Ingredients
For Mix:
  • 1.66 cups protein powder, any flavor I used Nourify Plus from Previnex
  • 1.25 cup oat flour – can sub another type of flour like: all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, gluten-free baking blend but I do not advise with a heavy flour like almond or coconut
  • 1/4 cup sweetener of choice 1:1 sweetness equivalency
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
  • ¼ cup coconut powder milk powder or any dried milk powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
For making a single muffin you will also need:
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp of mashed fruit like banana applesauce or pumpkin
Instructions
  1. To make mix: mix all dry ingredients together in an air-tight container or zip-top bag. Store in a dry pantry and use within 6 months.
  2. To make:
  3. Add whisk egg, water and mashed fruit together in a 12 to16 ounce microwave-safe bowl or mug. Next, use 1/3 cup of Protein Microwave Mug Muffin Mix.
  4. Microwave on High for 1 minute. Then let rest for 1 minute, then microwave for another 1 minute (For a total of 2 minutes or until muffin looks set). Note: it will rise pretty high in the microwave, but will settle down upon cooking.
Recipe Notes

Makes 10 serving – per serving with wet ingredients (egg and 2 tb banana)
300 cal, 28g carb, 12g fat, 19.3g protein

Strawberry Protein Tiramisu (High-Protein, No Added Sugar, Single Serve)

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Strawberry Protein Tiramisu… I mean, this one is next level. We’re talking a creamy, layered dessert that feels indulgent but clocks in at just 362 calories with 36 grams of protein — yes, really. This lighter twist skips the traditional ladyfingers and uses rice cakes soaked in a sweet strawberry-vanilla mixture for that soft, cake-like texture.

Layered with a whipped, protein-packed filling made from cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder, every bite is fresh, satisfying, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s the kind of treat that works as dessert, post-workout fuel, or even a fun breakfast option. If you love a good dessert that also supports your goals, this one is about to be on repeat.

Strawberry Protein Tiramisu is a high-protein, no-bake dessert with 36g protein and no added sugar. This single-serve recipe is easy, macro-friendly, and made with fresh strawberries, yogurt, and cottage cheese.

I used Nourify, a plant-based protein powder from Previnex. You can substitute another variety, however I really love this one — use my discount code THEFITFORK to save 15%.

How It Works: Instead of ladyfingers, rice cakes are softened with a quick strawberry-vanilla syrup. Then, a creamy mixture of blended cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder gets layered in between. Repeat the layers, top with fresh strawberries (and maybe chocolate chips), and let it chill briefly to set. Get all the details in the recipes below.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Protein Tiramisu

High in Protein: With 36 grams of protein per serving, this recipe helps support muscle recovery, keeps you full longer, and turns dessert into something that actually fuels your body.

No Added Sugar: Sweetened naturally with strawberries and sugar-free vanilla syrup, you get all the flavor without the sugar crash.

Single-Serve Simplicity: No leftovers tempting you all week — just one perfectly portioned treat when you want it.

No-Bake & Easy to Make: No oven, no complicated steps. Just mix, layer, and chill.

Macro-Friendly Dessert: At 362 calories with balanced macros (45g carbs / 5g fat / 36g protein), it fits easily into an active lifestyle.

Fresh, Light, and Seasonal: Strawberries bring natural sweetness, bright flavor, and a refreshing twist compared to traditional tiramisu.

More Protein Tiramisu Recipes to Try

If you’re loving this lighter, high-protein take on tiramisu, these other variations offer a different flavor twist while keeping that same macro-friendly, no-bake approach.

Caramel Protein Tiramisu with Rice Cake Layers

A guilt-free makeover on a classic dessert favorite – Caramel Protein Tiramisu! Swapping out traditional ingredients for healthier options like blended cottage cheese for mascarpone cheese and rice cakes for lady fingers creates a protein dessert that nourishes with 31g protein for only 281 calories.

Pucker Up for Lemon Protein Tiramisu

Lemon Protein Tiramisu made with cottage cheese, greek yogurt, protein powder, rice cakes and a lemon as the main ingredients.


Strawberry Protein Tiramisu is a high-protein, no-bake dessert with 36g protein and no added sugar. This single-serve recipe is easy, macro-friendly, and made with fresh strawberries, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
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Strawberry Protein Tiramisu (High-Protein, No Added Sugar, Single Serve)
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 
Strawberry Protein Tiramisu is a high-protein, no-bake dessert with 36g protein and no added sugar. This single-serve recipe is easy, macro-friendly, and made with fresh strawberries, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: high protein
Keyword: cottage cheese, dessert, healthy dessert, protein powder, strawberries, tiramasu
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
  • 1 cup diced Strawberries divided
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 3 tbsp sugar-free vanilla syrup like the coffee shop kind (can sub vanilla)
  • 2 plain rice cakes standard size not minis
  • 1/3 cup 2% cottage cheese blended smooth
  • 5.3 oz carton Greek yogurt vanilla or strawberry, no added sugar variety
  • 1 scoop 28g vanilla protein powder (I used Previnex Nourify)
  • Optional toppings: cocoa dusting or mini chocolate chips
  • Instructions
Instructions
  1. In small add water, sugar free syrup and ¼ cup of the diced strawberries. Microwave for 1 minute. Let cool for a couple minutes, then use a fork or spatula to smash up /muddle the strawberries. Set aside.
  2. In small bowl, stir together cottage cheese, yogurt and protein powder until smooth. If the cottage cheese hasn’t been blended smooth yet, you can do this entire step with all 3 ingredients together in blender. Stir in by hand all of the remaining strawberries except about 2 tablespoons.
  3. Find a 16-ounce minimum capacity mug or bowl with wide opening (large enough to mostly accommodate rice cake).
  4. Set first rice cake in or on top (if slightly too large) of mug bowl, and soften with approx. 1/2 of the strawberry syrup mixture Push down well into bottom of container.
  5. Pour ½ of cottage cheese mixture over the rice cake in cup. Next add second rice cake and soften with remaining syrup, pressing down gently to make another layer.
  6. Top with remaining cottage cheese filling mixture. Top with remaining strawberries and, optional, either mini chocolate chips or a dusting of cocoa powder. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
Recipe Notes

362 calories 45g carb 5g fat 36g protein

Fudgy Sweet Potato Brownies with 12g Protein (Gluten-Free Healthy Chocolate Treat)

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Craving something rich and chocolatey—but still want to stay on track with your nutrition? These sweet potato protein brownies are the kind of dessert that feels indulgent while quietly supporting your goals. They’re soft, fudgy, and satisfying, yet made with simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver protein, fiber-like benefits, and zero added sugar.

Instead of traditional flour, these brownies rely on naturally creamy sweet potato for structure and moisture. The result? A gluten-free treat with a decadent texture—no refined flour needed. Plus, the natural sweetness of the sweet potato means you can skip added sugar while still getting that classic brownie vibe.

Protein is built right in thanks to a trio of ingredients: egg, Greek yogurt, and protein powder. Together, they create a balanced dessert that helps keep you fuller longer and supports muscle recovery—making this just as appropriate post-workout as it is for dessert.

And here’s a little nutrition win—using a sweet potato that’s been cooked and cooled overnight actually boosts its benefits. Some of the carbs convert into resistant starch, which behaves more like dietary fiber. That means better gut health support and a slower digestion rate to help with steady energy.

The Perfect Small-Batch Treat

This recipe makes two servings—perfect for sharing or saving one for later. You’ll need two 6 oz microwave-safe ramekins, custard cups, or mugs. Whether you need a quick weeknight dessert, a post-workout reward, or just something to satisfy a chocolate craving without going off track, these brownies deliver.

Macros (per serving):
188 calories | 12g protein | 7g fat | 17g net carbs

Why I Use Previnex Nourify Protein Powder

👉Save 15% with code THEFITFORK  

For this recipe, I used Previnex Nourify protein powder, and it’s more than just protein. It’s a thoughtfully formulated plant-based blend that includes balanced macros—protein, carbs, and healthy fats—plus high-quality micronutrients, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to support overall health.

So while you’re enjoying a chocolate treat, you’re also fueling your body with nutrients that go beyond basic protein powder. It’s an easy upgrade that turns a simple dessert into something that truly supports your wellness routine.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission from purchases made through link which helps offset operating costs for The Fit Fork. Thank you!

These healthy sweet potato protein brownies are fudgy, gluten-free, and made with no added sugar. Ready in 5 minutes with 12g protein per serving—perfect for a guilt-free dessert perfect for the chocolate lover.
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🍫🍠 Sweet Potato Protein Brownies (for two)
Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
3 mins
Total Time
5 mins
 
These healthy sweet potato protein brownies are fudgy, gluten-free, and made with no added sugar. Ready in 5 minutes with 12g protein per serving—perfect for a guilt-free dessert.
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: gluten free, high protein, low carb
Keyword: brownies, chocolate, cooking for one, cooking for two, gluten free, high protein, low carb, previnex, protein powder
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 188 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup cooked, cooled and mashed sweet potato
  • 1/4 cup 0% Greek yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup protein powder I used Nourify from Previnex
  • (optional) Sweetener packet if needed
  • 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips sugar-free
Instructions
  1. Mix sweet potato, yogurt, and egg until smooth.
  2. Stir in cocoa powder, protein powder, and sweetener if needed.
  3. Divide into two small ramekins.
  4. Top with chocolate chips.
  5. Microwave 3 minutes total (in 1.5-minute increments).
Recipe Notes

Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins & Frosting – Delicious Low Carb Dessert

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If you’re craving a rich chocolate treat but still want something that fits your active lifestyle, these Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins deliver the best of both worlds. They’re tender, fudgy, and decadent—yet packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients.

These muffins taste like a chocolate brownie in muffin form, but they’re designed to fuel your day, whether you need a post-workout bite, an afternoon snack, or a better-for-you dessert.

A Better-for-You Chocolate Treat

One of the biggest challenges with high-protein baked goods is texture. Too often they turn out dry, dense, or chalky. These muffins avoid that problem by using ingredients that naturally add moisture, richness, and protein, including:

  • Protein powder for structure and protein (I’m using Nourify Plus from Previnex) 15% off code: thefitfork
  • Cottage cheese for creaminess and extra protein
  • Eggs for richness and binding
  • Peanut flour for a subtle nutty flavor and balanced macros (this brand I use has 80% less fat than almond flour)

The result is a soft, brownie-like muffin that tastes indulgent while still supporting your nutrition goals.

Each frosted muffin comes in around: 146 calories | 7g carbs | 8g fat | 12g protein — That’s a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while still delivering meaningful protein.

Top Theses Low Carb Cupcakes with Protein Frosting

These muffins are delicious on their own, but adding a swirl of protein frosting takes them to the next level. I like to use my go-to recipe for The Easiest Best Protein Frosting Ever, which is smooth, creamy, and easy to customize.

One of the best things about this frosting is that you can tint it naturally with different ingredients, so it works for holidays, parties, or just a fun colorful treat. I used greens powder to make mine festive for St. Patrick’s day.

The Protein Powder I Use for Baking

For both the muffins and frosting, I used Nourify Plant-Based Protein from Previnex. If you’d like to try it, you can save 15% on your first order with my code: THEFITFORK . I like this protein for baking because it:

  • Blends smoothly
  • Bakes well without drying out recipes
  • Works beautifully in my baked protein recipes along with frostings and smoothies – plus is also boosted with some extra nutrients.
Save 15% at Previnex with code THEFITFORK

Perfect for Snacks, Dessert, or Meal Prep

These Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins are a great option when you want something sweet but still balanced. They’re also easy to make ahead and store, making them perfect for busy schedules.

  • A post-workout recovery snack
  • A high-protein afternoon pick-me-up
  • A healthier dessert
  • A meal-prep snack for the week
These Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins are gluten-free, no sugar added, and packed with 12g protein. A rich, fudgy, macro-friendly snack or healthy dessert.
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Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins with Frosting(Gluten-Free, High Protein)
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
cool
10 mins
Total Time
40 mins
 

These Chocolate Brownie Protein Muffins are gluten-free, no sugar added, and packed with 12g protein. A rich, fudgy, macro-friendly snack or healthy dessert.

Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: high protein, low carb
Keyword: chocolate, cupcake, muffin, protein powder
Servings: 12 muffins
Calories: 146 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 cup peanut flour (NOT peanut powder) I used peanut FLOUR from @pbfit or can sub 1:1 flour alternative like GF baking blend but for less protein
  • 2 scoops 60g chocolate protein powder, suggest @previnex Nourify
  • ¼ cup granulated sweetener 1:1 equivalent ratio to sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¾ tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese blended
  • 1 cup low-fat milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup oil of choice
Frosting:
  • 4 oz low-fat cream cheese softened
  • 4 oz zero-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 scoop protein powder vanilla protein powder 30g
  • 1-2 tbsp greens powder or matcha powder your pref. for natural coloring (or omit)
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 350F. Prepare a 12-cup muffin pan with paper or silicone liners and set aside.
  2. Mix together all muffin ingredients until smooth You can do this in blender (if your cottage cheese is not already pre-blended).
  3. Transfer batter to prepared muffin pan. Bake on center rack for 20-22 minutes or until toothpick pulls clean. Let muffins cool in pan for at least 10 minutes.
  4. While muffins are cooling, prepare frosting my mixing together softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, protein powder and natural coloring agent, if desired.
  5. Add a generous dollop of frosting to center of muffin. Decorate as desired. Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days.
Recipe Notes