Chocolate Chip Bran Muffins: A Healthy and Indulgent Treat
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the desire for a healthy breakfast and the craving for something sweet, look no further than these delightful Chocolate Chip Bran Muffins. Not only are they easy to whip up in the microwave, but they also boast the incredible ability to maintain their deliciousness for several days when stored in the refrigerator. Adapted from Hershey’s Chocolate Treasury, this recipe ensures that you can enjoy a nutritious start to your day while still indulging in the rich flavor of chocolate. With a quick cooking time and a fantastic yield, these muffins are perfect for feeding a crowd or keeping on hand for those busy mornings.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 Muffin) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 129.8 |
| Total Fat | 5.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 12.3 mg |
| Sodium | 133.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 10.6 g |
| Protein | 2.6 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 cups | Boiling water |
| 1/2 cup | Low-fat buttermilk |
| 1 | Egg |
| 1/4 cup | Unsifted all-purpose flour |
| 1 cup | Sugar |
| 1 1/4 tsp | Baking soda |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/2 cup | Mini chocolate chips |
| 1/4 cup | Chopped apricots (optional) |
| Non-stick spray | For greasing custard cups |
| 1/4 cup | Bran flake cereal, for topping |
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 4 minutes
- Servings: 18 muffins
Instructions
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Prepare the Cereal Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of bran cereal with the boiling water. Blend well and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. This step ensures that the bran softens, creating a tender muffin.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: Once cooled, add the low-fat buttermilk, oil, and egg to the cereal mixture. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined, ensuring a smooth consistency.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the unsifted all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This combination provides the muffins with a balanced flavor and structure.
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Incorporate the Mixtures: Gradually stir the dry mixture into the cereal mixture, mixing gently until just moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser muffins. If desired, fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped apricots for added sweetness and texture.
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Prepare the Custard Cups: Spray six 5- to 6-ounce custard cups with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the muffins from sticking during cooking.
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Fill the Custard Cups: Using a spoon, fill each custard cup halfway with the muffin batter. Sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of bran flake cereal on top of each muffin batter for an extra crunchy texture.
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Microwave Cooking: Place the filled custard cups in the microwave and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes. To ensure even cooking, turn each cup 1/4 turn at the end of each minute. The muffins are ready when a wooden toothpick inserted off-center comes out clean. Be aware that the tops will appear moist, but this is normal.
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Cooling Time: Once cooked, allow the muffins to stand for several minutes. This resting time helps them set and makes them easier to remove from the cups.
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Storing Leftover Batter: If you have leftover batter, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to several days. Simply repeat the cooking procedure for the remaining batter when you’re ready to enjoy more muffins.
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Serving Suggestions: These Chocolate Chip Bran Muffins are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the microwave, or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Conclusion
In just over an hour, you can prepare a batch of these scrumptious Chocolate Chip Bran Muffins that are as healthy as they are indulgent. With their delightful combination of rich chocolate and hearty bran, these muffins are a fantastic way to start your day on the right note. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for yourself, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals. So gather your ingredients and get ready to treat yourself to a delectable yet wholesome breakfast experience!
