Carrot Bran Breakfast Muffins
Deliciously Wholesome Morning Treats Packed with Goodness
The Carrot Bran Breakfast Muffin is a delightful and nutritious way to start your day. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, these muffins are sweetened with natural honey and enriched with the freshness of grated carrots. A healthy breakfast option, these muffins combine whole wheat, wheat bran, and carrots to provide fiber and essential nutrients, making them an ideal snack for kids’ teatime or as a school snack box addition. Their soft, tender crumb paired with a hint of citrus from orange marmalade and Grand Marnier offers a wonderful burst of flavor, giving you a balanced and filling breakfast.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Wheat Bran | 1/2 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Honey (or maple syrup) | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Egg | 1 |
| Carrots (Gajjar), peeled and grated | 2 |
| Orange Marmalade Jam | 1 tablespoon |
| Grand Marnier (optional) | 1 tablespoon (or grated orange zest) |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and wheat, which may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. If you’re seeking a vegan alternative, consider substituting the egg with a flax egg and using non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. Ensure to check the labels for any potential allergens in the honey or maple syrup you choose, especially if opting for pre-packaged varieties.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is classified as eggetarian, meaning it includes eggs, making it suitable for those who consume eggs but do not follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. For a completely vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg or chia seed egg and opt for plant-based milk. For individuals with a gluten sensitivity, use certified gluten-free flours to ensure the muffins are safe to consume.
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tray: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tray with cupcake liners and lightly grease them with oil to ensure the muffins come out easily after baking.
-
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, wheat bran, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the egg and oil together for about one minute, or until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the vanilla extract, orange marmalade jam, Grand Marnier (or grated orange zest), and honey. Pour in the milk and whisk until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
-
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the sifted dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Take care not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense. Stir just until the flour is fully moistened, and the batter is free of lumps.
-
Incorporate Grated Carrots: Fold in the grated carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
-
Spoon the Batter into Muffin Tray: Divide the muffin batter equally among the prepared muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 of the way full.
-
Bake the Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden brown, and the muffins should spring back when gently pressed.
-
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tray for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins can be enjoyed warm with a hot cup of masala chai or stored in an airtight container for later.
Tips for Serving and Storing
-
Serving Suggestions: These Carrot Bran Breakfast Muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. Serve them warm with a hot drink like masala chai for a comforting experience, or enjoy them cold as an easy grab-and-go snack.
-
Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 2-3 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life. For extra convenience, freeze the muffins and thaw them as needed for a quick breakfast or snack option.
-
Make-Ahead Tips: These muffins are great for meal prepping. You can bake them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for a week’s worth of breakfast or snacks. Just warm them up before serving for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
The Carrot Bran Breakfast Muffins are a wholesome and delicious way to kick-start your morning or satisfy an afternoon craving. Combining the nutritional benefits of wheat bran and whole wheat flour with the sweetness of honey and the natural goodness of carrots, these muffins offer a great balance of taste and health. Perfect for the whole family, especially as a snack for kids, they’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and adaptable to different dietary needs. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or packed for a busy day ahead!
