Bran Muffins
Looking for a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on taste? Bran muffins are the perfect solution! Packed with fiber and wholesome ingredients, these muffins are moist, flavorful, and easy to make. Ideal for breakfast on the go or a mid-afternoon treat, they can be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will keep you coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 cup bran cereal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or nuts (optional)
- Oats for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 muffin) contains approximately 150 calories, 3g protein, 5g fat, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on a standard muffin size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
- In a bowl, combine the bran cereal and buttermilk. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth.
- Add the bran mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the raisins or nuts if using.
- Fill the muffin cups about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Sprinkle oats on top of each muffin for added texture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the buttermilk with plain yogurt or a dairy-free milk alternative. For a healthier option, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, and consider using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for natural sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
These bran muffins pair wonderfully with a spread of butter or a drizzle of honey. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can make muffins tough; mix until just combined.
- Not letting the bran soak can lead to dry muffins.
- Using stale baking soda will affect the rise; always check for freshness.
- Skipping the liners can cause sticking; always use them for easy removal.
- Underbaking can result in gooey centers; ensure a toothpick comes out clean.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or seeds.
- Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary.
- Allow muffins to cool completely before storing to maintain moisture.
- For extra flavor, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture and use a plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
How can I enhance the flavor of my muffins?
Add vanilla extract or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and depth.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
What can I add to make them more nutritious?
Consider incorporating chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, or additional fruits like mashed bananas or applesauce.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Bran muffins are a delicious and healthy choice for any time of day. With their rich flavor and wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for satisfying your cravings while providing essential nutrients. Bake a batch today and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade goodness!
Bran Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 cup bran cereal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or nuts optional
- Oats for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
- In a bowl, combine the bran cereal and buttermilk. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth.
- Add the bran mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the raisins or nuts if using.
- Fill the muffin cups about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Sprinkle oats on top of each muffin for added texture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
