Are you looking for a quick and easy breakfast or snack that's also incredibly healthy? Look no further! These bran muffins, made with readily available bran cereal, are the perfect solution. Packed with fiber and bursting with delicious flavor, they're a guilt-free indulgence you'll love. Forget those overly sweet, store-bought muffins; this recipe delivers homemade goodness in minutes. Get ready to experience the joy of easy recipes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup bran cereal, coarsely crushed (you can use your favorite brand!)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup blueberries, raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. Crush the bran cereal coarsely – you want some texture, not fine crumbs.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, crushed bran cereal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
If using, gently fold in your favorite mix-ins – blueberries, raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious, homemade bran muffins!
Cooking Tips for the Best Bran Muffins:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are moistened.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out with moist crumbs attached, bake for a couple more minutes.
- Cool completely: Allowing the muffins to cool completely prevents them from crumbling.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Variations:
- Spiced Bran Muffins: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Savory Bran Muffins: Omit the sugar and add herbs like rosemary and thyme, along with shredded cheese and chopped vegetables. This makes a fantastic savory breakfast or snack option.
- Whole Wheat Bran Muffins: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, a general estimate is around 150-200 calories, with a good source of fiber. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and measurements.
These homemade bran muffins are a fantastic addition to any meal plan. They're easy to customize, delicious to eat, and a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are also healthy and satisfying. Enjoy!