Sheila’s Bran Muffins: A Quick and Delicious Breakfast Treat
If you’re in search of a simple and tasty muffin recipe that you can rely on for quick breakfasts or snacks, look no further than Sheila’s Bran Muffins. This beloved recipe, which has been part of my collection for as long as I can remember, is one that I can prepare from memory without ever having to check the ingredients list. A perfect balance of sweetness and hearty texture, these muffins are packed with fiber and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 to 1/2 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Molasses | 4 tbsp |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 3 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Bran | 1 to 1 1/2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 234.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 66.2 mg |
| Sodium | 355.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 12.2 g |
| Protein | 5.4 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
Start by beating together the butter, margarine, brown sugar, molasses, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. -
-
Add Bran and Milk:
Once the wet ingredients are well combined, stir in the bran and milk. Continue mixing until everything is just incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix at this stage. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, gently mix together the remaining dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until everything is just combined. Again, avoid over-mixing, as this could result in dense muffins. -
Spoon Into Muffin Tins:
Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the muffins for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness by gently pressing on the top—it should feel firm. If a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, they’re ready. -
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. These muffins are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container for several days.
Tips and Variations
- For a health boost: Consider adding raisins, walnuts, or flax seeds to the batter for extra nutrients and texture.
- For a lighter version: Substitute the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use all margarine for a slightly lower fat content.
- Make them ahead: These muffins freeze wonderfully! Simply place them in a freezer bag and store for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
Conclusion
These Sheila’s Bran Muffins are a great way to start your day with a wholesome breakfast that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with fiber. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Perfect for busy mornings or as a snack throughout the day, they offer a satisfying balance of sweetness and nutrition. Try them today, and I’m sure you’ll agree—they’re simply irresistible!
