These Classic Molasses Bran Muffins offer a delicious and wholesome start to your day. You will find them incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or a healthy breakfast muffin option.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Bran Cereal: Use a plain, unsweetened variety. Wheat bran can be substituted for a slightly denser texture.
- Molasses: Unsulfured dark molasses is ideal. You can use blackstrap molasses for a bolder, slightly less sweet flavor.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, combine regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Whole Wheat Flour: All-purpose flour can be used, but whole wheat adds more fiber and nutrition.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups bran cereal
- 1 ¼ cups whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Tools: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, molasses, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined. This ensures all the liquids are evenly distributed for your healthy breakfast muffins.
2. Soften the Bran
Stir the bran cereal into the wet mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the bran has softened. This step is crucial for tender muffins.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps in your dry mixture.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients to the wet bran mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are perfectly fine for moist muffins.
5. Prepare Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
6. Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. You can use an ice cream scoop for easy portioning.
7. Bake the Muffins
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Your delicious healthy breakfast muffins will have a beautiful golden-brown top.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these warm or at room temperature.
Variation Ideas
- Add Dried Fruit: Mix in ½ cup of raisins, chopped dates, or dried cranberries with the dry ingredients.
- Nutty Touch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the wet ingredients for a brighter flavor.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for more warming spice.
Storage Instructions
Store your Classic Molasses Bran Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen muffins at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use instant bran cereal for these healthy breakfast muffins?
A: Yes, you can use instant bran cereal, but reduce the soaking time to 2-3 minutes.
Q: Why are my bran muffins dry?
A: Overmixing the batter is a common culprit. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep them moist.
Q: Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
A: You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may be different. Ensure your bran cereal is also gluten-free.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
A: Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar by a quarter, but the molasses also contributes sweetness and moisture.
Q: How do I know when the muffins are fully baked?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are ready.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to these healthy breakfast muffins?
A: Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips with the dry ingredients for a sweeter treat.