Craving a nutritious start to your day or a wholesome snack? These Blueberry Oat Bran Muffins are a perfect choice, offering a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy treat. You’ll love how simple they are to make, packed with flavor and beneficial fiber.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oat Bran: Crucial for texture and fiber; do not substitute with oat flour or rolled oats.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen work well.
- Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat) is fine.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar.
- Oil: Melted coconut oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives to applesauce for moisture.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups oat bran
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Calories per serving: Approximately 130 calories
- Tools Needed: Muffin tin, paper liners, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the oat bran, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for an even texture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined. This ensures all the liquid ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened; do not overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine and will lead to tender muffins.
5. Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries. Be careful not to crush them, especially if using fresh berries. This distributes them throughout the batter.
6. Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups. You can use a spoon or 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. The tops should be golden brown.
8. Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents sogginess.
Variation Ideas:
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) on top before baking.
- Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Chocolate Chip: Replace half of the blueberries with mini chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Blueberry Oat Bran Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw individual muffins in the microwave or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries directly from the freezer. Do not thaw them first.
Why are my muffins tough?
Overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Are these muffins gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour. You would need to use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, simply use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
How can I make these muffins sweeter?
You can add an extra tablespoon or two of brown sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup to the batter.
What is the benefit of oat bran?
Oat bran is an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help with digestion and cholesterol levels. These healthy blueberry muffin recipes are a great way to incorporate it.
