Aunt Florie'S Bran Muffins
Aunt Florie's hearty bran muffins combine wholesome bran flakes and raisins with a moist, flavorful batter, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cream shortening and sugar together. Beat in the eggs.
- Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt together.
- Stir in the bran flakes and raisins.
- Soak the bran in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes, then add to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the buttermilk, then fold in the flour and raisin mixture.
- Mix thoroughly, then store in the refrigerator in a covered container.
- Fill greased muffin pans about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For added flavor, try incorporating chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon. Ensure the raisins are plump; soak them in hot water for a few minutes before adding.
Serving Suggestions
These bran muffins are perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. Serve them warm with a spread of butter or honey. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful brunch, offer alongside Sara Henson's Yellow Cake Layer and fresh fruit. They can also be enjoyed with yogurt and berries for a nutritious start to your day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. To reheat, microwave a muffin for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Florie'S Bran Muffins contains roughly 530 calories, with 9g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1539mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, this may change the texture slightly, making the muffins denser. You can also try gluten-free flour blends if you have dietary restrictions, though the results may vary.
How can I make these muffins sweeter?
To increase the sweetness, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar or incorporate sweet elements like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, adding chocolate chips or dried fruit like apricots can enhance the sweetness and flavor profile of the muffins.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just stir it well before baking. Alternatively, bake the muffins ahead, store them, and reheat as needed. They make for an easy grab-and-go breakfast during busy mornings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).