Fiber! Fiber! Get your fiber! These muffins are full of fiber, but even better they are full of flavor. The doctor handed us a recipe for bran muffins many years ago, pregnant with our first child. We like bran cereal okay enough, and those muffins tasted okay, but they were definitely not the best. Over the years, we took that recipe and tweaked it here and there until it evolved into this! This recipe is a bran muffin that actually tastes good! The key is the coconut oil. It provides a subtle coconut flavor to the muffins that gives it a new and improved taste. Who knew bran muffins could be so delicious?
This is the bran muffin recipe that actually tastes good! The secret is to use coconut oil. Not only does it make these bran muffins healthier, it also brings the most delicious flavor.
Bran, the outer layer of cereal grains such as wheat, oat, and rice, is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is particularly rich in dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. High fiber intake is associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved bowel health. Additionally, bran is a natural source of essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients play a vital role in overall health, supporting everything from energy production to immune function. Including bran in your diet, like through these delicious muffins, is an enjoyable way to contribute to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.
Bran Cereal Options
- 100% Bran Cereal: This is the ideal choice for bran muffins. It provides a high fiber content and a robust bran flavor. Brands like Kellogg’s All-Bran or Post Bran Flakes are excellent options.
- Bran Flakes: Slightly lighter in texture and flavor than 100% bran cereals, bran flakes can also be used. They offer a more subtle bran taste and a less dense texture in the muffins.
- Bran Buds or Pellets: These are more concentrated forms of bran and can be used for an intense bran flavor. They might need additional soaking time to soften adequately before mixing into the batter.
- Oat Bran: As an alternative, oat bran can be used for a different flavor profile and texture. It’s lighter than wheat bran but still offers a good amount of fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour to add extra fiber. A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can also be used in place of regular flour.
Coconut oil is used in this recipe not only because it’s a healthy fat, but it also brings a subtle flavor to this muffin that is irresistible. Vegetable oil or melted butter can be used as a direct substitute for coconut oil.
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruit like raisins can be added for extra texture and flavor.
Substitute the buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Variations
One of the joys of baking bran muffins is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- For Extra Crunch: Add a handful of your favorite nuts, such as chopped walnuts or almonds, for an added crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
- Fruit Variations: Stir in dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates to add natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Spice It Up: Introduce spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, inviting flavor.
- Alternative Sweeteners: If you’re looking to reduce refined sugar, try substituting brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Be mindful that liquid sweeteners can change the batter’s consistency, so adjustments may be needed.
Storage Instructions
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warm.
More Muffin Recipes
Watch the video below where Rachel will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.
I’ve made these twice already and they are fabulous!
Thanks again for another wonderful recipe.
These muffins are excellent. Moist and perfect amount of sweet
These Bran Muffins are amazing! So light and tasty. There’s a bit of sweetness to them, too and crunchy tops.
I followed the recipe to a “tee”. But, I used my large muffin pan and made six. They will not last….Thank you, Rachel. I enjoy trying all of your recipes…
I just put a batch of these in the oven so I’m hoping my picky eaters will like them! I just love Rachel’s great how-to videos and recipes!!! … To boost the fiber of these muffins, I added 1/2 cup golden raisins (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes first) and 1/2 cup walnuts. I also swapped out the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, which upped the fiber overall by 8 grams. To keep the muffins from being as dense because of the whole wheat flour, I boosted the baking powder and soda 1/8 tsp each.
Rachel – in your coconut oil bran muffin recipe what kind of coconut oil did you use. I don’t usually use coconut oil so wasn’t sure which one to get. I’m anxious to try these but want to make sure I get the right coconut oil. Really enjoy your recipes. Thank you!
I just bought whatever they had at Costco.
I followed the recipe exactly…a rarity for me…and these are FANTASTIC. The coconut oil makes all the difference. Thanks for another great recipe!
Absolutely fantastic from someone who has never been a big fan of healthy eating. Pretty much forced into it. But these don’t taste healthy at all. I used brown sugar monk fruit and no salt to accommodate my dietary needs.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
If you want to try adding whole wheat, we recommend starting with no more than 1/2 whole wheat, 1/2 all purpose flour. Otherwise, your muffins could turn out way too dense.
So easy to make and soooooo delicious !
So yummy! It truly is a delicious bran muffin! I added some home-dried concord grapes to them which was also more deliciousness.