Bran Muffins are a nutritious and wholesome treat, perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack. Packed with fiber, these muffins are moist, slightly sweet, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like raisins or nuts.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups wheat bran
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for extra fiber)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
Soak the Bran:
- In a medium bowl, combine the wheat bran and buttermilk. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften the bran.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- To the bran mixture, add vegetable oil, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips if desired.
Fill the Muffin Tin:
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Add grated apple or mashed banana to the batter for extra moisture and natural sweetness.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar if preferred.
