There's something undeniably comforting about a batch of freshly baked muffins. These Cinnamon Apple Raisin Bran Muffins are a wholesome treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the hearty texture of bran. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack.
All-purpose flour provides the structure for these muffins, keeping them light and fluffy. Adding whole wheat bran not only boosts the fiber content but also gives the muffins a satisfying, nutty texture. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar ensures just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. The baking powder and baking soda work together to give the muffins their rise and airy texture. A touch of ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the grated apple and raisins. Finally, a dash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, tying all the elements together.
These muffins pair wonderfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a hearty breakfast. For a delightful afternoon treat, consider serving them with a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter and a side of herbal tea.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures your muffins won't stick and makes cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, bran, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Give them a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Once combined, stir in the grated apple, raisins, and vanilla extract. This mixture should be slightly lumpy because of the apples and raisins, but that's what you're looking for.
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir them together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step is crucial as overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. This gives them room to rise nicely. Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 18-20 minutes. You'll know they're done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle. Let them cool completely or enjoy them warm!
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