Are you looking for a quick and easy breakfast or snack that's also packed with nutrients? Look no further! These flaxseed meal muffins are the perfect solution. They're incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet deliver a delightful burst of flavor and a satisfyingly healthy boost to your day. Perfect for busy mornings or a thoughtful afternoon treat, these muffins are a delicious way to incorporate more flaxseed into your diet. This recipe offers a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – healthy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to enjoy one of the best recipes for a nutritious and delicious start to your day!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup flaxseed meal
- 2 cups almond flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Optional: ½ cup blueberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This simple step ensures your muffins bake evenly and release easily.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flaxseed meal, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients first prevents lumps and ensures even distribution.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and milk. Make sure everything is well combined for a consistent batter.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in tough muffins.
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Add-ins (Optional): If using, gently fold in your chosen add-ins – blueberries, nuts, or chocolate chips – ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Fill Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. This leaves room for the muffins to rise during baking.
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Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Flaxseed Meal Muffins:
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will result in the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your preference.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spiced Muffins: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Savory Muffins: Omit the sweetener and add herbs like rosemary and thyme, along with shredded cheese and chopped vegetables for a savory breakfast option. This turns this recipe into a great quick dinner idea.
- Banana Flaxseed Muffins: Replace the applesauce with mashed banana for added sweetness and moisture.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on add-ins and sweetener)
- Protein: 4-6g
- Fiber: 4-6g
These flaxseed meal muffins are a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. They're a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to start your day or satisfy a healthy snack craving. Enjoy!