Bran Muffins
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious treat, bran muffins are a fantastic choice. Packed with fiber, these muffins provide a wholesome start to your day or a nutritious snack anytime. They’re moist, flavorful, and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins like fruits or nuts. Get ready to enjoy a delightful baking experience that will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup bran flakes
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup raisins or nuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each muffin (serving size: 1 muffin) contains approximately 150 calories, 4g protein, 3g fat, 27g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, bran flakes, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, and egg until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add raisins or nuts if desired, and fold them into the batter gently.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your freshly baked bran muffins warm or at room temperature!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness. Additionally, you can replace milk with a plant-based milk if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Bran muffins are perfect on their own, but they pair beautifully with yogurt, fresh fruits, or a spread of almond or peanut butter. A cup of tea or coffee complements these muffins well for a delightful breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store bran muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; it can lead to dense muffins.
- Make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper rising.
- Be careful not to overbake; check muffins a few minutes early.
- Measure ingredients accurately to avoid imbalances.
- Let muffins cool slightly before removing them from the tin.
Helpful Tips
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or seeds.
- Use a scoop for even muffin sizes.
- Grease the muffin tin lightly for easier removal.
FAQs
Can I make bran muffins without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with applesauce or a flaxseed mixture to bind the ingredients together while keeping them moist.
How can I make bran muffins sweeter?
You can increase the amount of sugar or add honey, maple syrup, or sweetened dried fruits like dates or figs to enhance the sweetness.
Can I use different types of flour?
Absolutely! You can experiment with oat flour, almond flour, or even gluten-free flour blends for different textures and flavors.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding vanilla extract, citrus zest, or spices like cinnamon to create a more flavorful muffin.
How do I know when my muffins are done?
Muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Conclusion
Bran muffins are a delightful and nutritious option that can be easily customized to suit your taste. With their hearty texture and wholesome ingredients, they make for a perfect breakfast or snack. Try this recipe and enjoy the benefits of a fiber-rich treat!
Bran Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup bran flakes
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup raisins or nuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, bran flakes, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, and egg until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add raisins or nuts if desired, and fold them into the batter gently.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your freshly baked bran muffins warm or at room temperature!
