Are you craving a delicious yet guilt-free treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your healthy eating goals? Look no further than these scrumptious Apple Bran Muffins! Bursting with the natural sweetness of applesauce and the wholesome goodness of bran flakes, this low-calorie recipe is not only easy to make but also a delightful way to kickstart your day. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for those busy mornings or as a perfect snack any time of day. Ready to indulge in a guilt-free muffin experience? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 muffins
Ingredients
- 1 cup bran flakes
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced apples
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bran flakes and applesauce. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the bran flakes to soften and absorb moisture.
- Add brown sugar, vegetable oil, and egg to the bran flakes mixture. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
- Carefully fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Soak the Bran Flakes: Allowing the bran flakes to soak in applesauce for a few minutes helps them soften, resulting in a moist and tender muffin. Don’t skip this step!
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: For the best results, use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you’re adding the right amounts of each ingredient. This will help maintain the perfect texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so be gentle!
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to get creative! Consider adding a handful of walnuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor, or a dash of nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready to come out of the oven!
- Store Properly: To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw and enjoy when you’re ready!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg
