Molasses Bran Muffins
Moist, flavorful bran muffins with a hint of molasses and raisins, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack, appealing to health-conscious and sweet-loving eaters alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F.
- Line muffin pan with paper baking cups.
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded whole bran cereal, milk, and molasses.
- Let stand until cereal is soft, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add shortening and egg; beat well.
- Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup, then level off.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in raisins.
- Add the cereal mixture all at once to the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.
- Fill muffin cups half full for 18 muffins or three-quarters full for 12 muffins.
- Bake for 14 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Immediately remove muffins from pan.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a healthier alternative, substitute half of the sugar with applesauce. You can also use coconut oil instead of shortening for a dairy-free option. For a nutty crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Remember not to overmix when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep muffins tender.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses bran muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a wholesome snack. Serve them warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete breakfast, consider serving with fresh fruit or yogurt. For more delicious breakfast ideas, browse American recipes like 'Smilie Face' Pancakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them by wrapping individually in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, microwave a muffin for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Bran Muffins contains roughly 281 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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 vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using a plant-based shortening. Additionally, ensure that your molasses is vegan-friendly.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or chopped dates. Fresh fruit, such as blueberries or diced apples, can also be a delicious alternative, but reduce the liquid slightly to maintain batter consistency.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
To check if the muffins are done, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If there's wet batter on the toothpick, bake them for an additional 1-2 minutes before checking again.
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).