Super-Natural Bran Muffins
Super-Natural Bran Muffins are hearty, wholesome treats packed with bran, granola, and optional fruits, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2 to 3-quart container or bowl with a cover, stir together bran and boiling water.
- Let stand for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in another large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, brown sugar, and honey and mix well.
- Beat the eggs into the oil mixture, then add and mix in the buttermilk.
- Mix the oil mixture into the bran mixture.
- In another bowl, combine and mix whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and granola.
- Slowly blend these dry ingredients into the bran mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate the batter for several hours or overnight.
- Spoon batter into greased muffin tins, filling 2/3 full.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 22 to 25 minutes or until brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool before removing from pans.
- The remaining batter can be used as needed and will keep refrigerated, tightly sealed, for 4 weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can cut down on brown sugar and increase the honey. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the taste as well, making them even more delicious. If using optional ingredients, feel free to mix and match according to personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack and pair wonderfully with a dollop of yogurt or a smear of your favorite jam. They can also be enjoyed with a side of Peanut Butter Topper for a protein boost. For a delightful dessert option, serve alongside a scoop of ice cream or with a drizzle of honey.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to extend freshness up to a week. If you prefer warm muffins, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super-Natural Bran Muffins contains roughly 675 calories, with 5g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1405mg per serving (61% 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 all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty taste and a denser texture, while all-purpose will yield a lighter muffin.
How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
To make these muffins gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the baking soda and other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I freeze the batter or the baked muffins?
Yes, you can freeze the baked muffins. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from the freezer.
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).