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–+ servings
Healthy bran muffins with orange zest stacked three high.

Healthy Bran Muffins Recipe

Forget dry and boring—these moist and flavorful bran muffins will change your mind! Toasted bran, pureed dates and a touch of citrus make them the perfect healthy breakfast or on-the-go snack.
5 from 3 votes
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 12 muffins

Ingredients  

  • 2 cups unprocessed bran
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped dates
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 large eggs, divided
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Line a muffin pan with muffin cups.
  • Spread the bran on a cookie sheet and bake for 6 to 8 minutes, until toasted, stirring half-way through to prevent the bran from burning.
  • In a small saucepan, stir together 1 cup of the chopped dates and 1 cup of water. Simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
  • Place the mixture in a blender and process until pureed.
  • Pour the bran into a large bowl, add the buttermilk and remaining 1/2 cup water. Stir to combine.
  • Stir in the date puree, orange zest and brown sugar.
  • Add the olive oil along with one whole egg and one egg white (discard the remaining yolk) and mix well to incorporate.
  • Stir in the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
  • Stir in the remaining chopped dates.
  • Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups and bake until the muffins are firm to the touch, about 25 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly then serve.

Notes

  • Add-ins: You can add up to 1 cup of your favorite mix-ins, including chopped walnuts, chopped pecans, chocolate chips, fresh blueberries or diced apples. For extra warmth, try stirring in 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.
  • To store: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If your kitchen is warm, you may want to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.
  • To freeze: Let the muffins cool completely then wrap each individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave a muffin for 30–45 seconds or let it thaw at room temperature.
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