Icebox Muffins
Icebox Muffins are hearty, bran-filled treats with a moist crumb and wholesome flavor, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix in a saucepan 2 cups boiling water and the 2 cups Bran Buds. Set aside to soak.
- Cream together the shortening and sugar.
- Add eggs, one at a time, then add the buttermilk and soaked Bran Buds.
- Transfer the mixture to a very large bowl or pan at least 6-quart size.
- Mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Fold in the 4 cups All-Bran.
- Fill greased muffin tins half full.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter muffins, ensure not to overmix the batter after adding flour; this helps keep them fluffy. If you don't have Bran Buds, you can substitute with any high-fiber cereal. A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor. Consider using Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. They pair beautifully with a dollop of yogurt or cream cheese and fresh fruit. Consider serving alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a heartier meal, enjoy them with a side of Rave Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Icebox Muffins contains roughly 1020 calories, with 14g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% 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 make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to fill the muffin tins and bake them fresh when you're ready to enjoy.
What if I don't have buttermilk?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and acidity needed for the recipe.
Can I add mix-ins to the muffins?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips into the batter for extra flavor and texture. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as it might affect the muffins' rise.
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).