π§ππΎ Apricot Oat Bran Muffins πΎππ§
What is it?
Apricot Oat Bran Muffins are delightful baked treats that combine the wholesome goodness of oats and bran with the sweet, tangy flavor of apricots. These muffins are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional muffins due to their high fiber content.
History:
The exact origin of Apricot Oat Bran Muffins is unclear, but muffins, in general, have been enjoyed for centuries. Muffins can be traced back to the British Isles, where they were initially a form of quick bread. Over time, variations of muffins have evolved worldwide, and Apricot Oat Bran Muffins are a modern twist on this classic.
Components:
To make Apricot Oat Bran Muffins, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup oat bran
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- Cooking spray
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or coat it with cooking spray.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat bran, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well to combine all the dry ingredients.
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In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, yogurt, canola oil, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
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Gently fold in the chopped dried apricots into the batter.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
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Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare and bake Apricot Oat Bran Muffins is approximately 30-35 minutes, making them a quick and wholesome breakfast or snack option. Enjoy these muffins warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat that combines the goodness of oats and the fruity sweetness of apricots! π½οΈππ©βπ³
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apricot Oat Bran Muffins:
Nutrition Facts (per muffin):
- Calories: Approximately 180
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g
Health Information:
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High Fiber: These muffins are rich in dietary fiber, primarily from oat bran and whole wheat flour. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain a feeling of fullness, and can contribute to heart health.
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Low in Saturated Fat: With only 0.5g of saturated fat per muffin, they are a heart-healthy choice. High saturated fat intake is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
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Low Cholesterol: At just 15mg of cholesterol per muffin, they are considered low-cholesterol foods. A low-cholesterol diet can help manage heart health.
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Moderate Calories: Each muffin provides around 180 calories, making them a reasonable snack or breakfast option when consumed in moderation.
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Good Source of Whole Grains: Whole wheat flour in the recipe contributes whole grains, which are linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases and improved digestion.
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Natural Sweetness: The sweetness in these muffins primarily comes from brown sugar and dried apricots rather than excessive added sugars, which can be a healthier choice.
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Lower Sodium: With 220mg of sodium per muffin, they are not excessively high in salt. Reducing sodium intake can support heart health.
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Protein Content: These muffins contain 4g of protein per serving, contributing to muscle health and satiety.
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Vitamins and Minerals: While the exact vitamin and mineral content may vary, oats and whole wheat flour generally provide essential nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
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Balanced Ingredients: The combination of oat bran, whole wheat flour, dried apricots, and low-fat yogurt in this recipe provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for sustained energy.
Remember that individual portion sizes and ingredient choices may affect the nutritional content slightly, so it’s always a good idea to refer to specific product labels and adjust portions accordingly based on your dietary needs and goals. These muffins can be a nutritious addition to your diet when consumed as part of a balanced meal plan. π₯£π₯π§