Easy Peasy Wholesome Bran Muffins

Besides the usual childhood kitchen experiments with oat crunchies and fudge (which invariably always turned into toffee), these delicious muffins were one of the first recipes I attempted as a child. My mom, who has a knack for finding good recipes, spotted it on the outside of a flour packet and gave it a try. It soon became a family staple in our home, since it's so simple and economical to make.

If you’ve stocked up your pantry with the basic essentials you should have all the ingredients on hand.

These muffins are a convenient and healthy snack to have in the house for the whole family. It’s ideal for my daughter who has an egg allergy, and it gives her a good dose of dietary fibre. For a fussy toddler like mine who needs extra calories, you can serve the muffins with margarine, jam or grated cheese.



Easy Peasy Wholesome Bran Muffins
(Egg-free; Suitable for vegans)

Makes 12

1 cup boiling water
1 cup raisins
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon soft margarine (for vegans) or butter
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 pinch of salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius (355 degrees Fahrenheit).
Pour boiling water over the raisins and allow to cool slightly.
Mix the sugar and butter together (no need to cream).
Add the whole wheat flour and the sifted dry ingredients.
Make a well in the centre and add the raisin mixture.
Stir till well blended.
Spoon into greased muffin tins.
Bake for 20 minutes or when a toothpick comes out clean.

Variations and tips:

• I prefer my muffins with more moisture so I tend to add a little more than a cup of water. Your batter should be moist but not runny. 
• You can add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for extra flavor. 
• For a softer moist texture add 1 large ripe mashed banana. 
• Sprinkle sunflower seeds on muffins prior to baking for a nutty taste and a boost of vitamin E. 
• Adding grated carrots is a great way to sneak some veggies into the family's diet. 
• Add some roughly chopped apple (skin on). 
• Chopped dates will add a sticky sweetness to the muffins and are a healthy variation. 
• These muffins keep well in an airtight container in the freezer.