Applesauce Bran Muffin Recipe for Healthy, Tasty Treats

Bran muffins are a classic breakfast treat, beloved for their hearty texture and wholesome goodness. Adding applesauce to the mix not only boosts the flavor but also keeps these muffins moist and tender without needing extra oil or butter.

This applesauce bran muffin recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious start to the day—or a wholesome snack anytime. With the natural sweetness of applesauce blending beautifully with the rich nuttiness of bran, these muffins are both satisfying and guilt-free.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time.

Plus, these muffins freeze well and make a fantastic grab-and-go option for busy mornings. So if you’re ready for a cozy, fiber-packed snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, keep reading to discover everything you need to make these delightful applesauce bran muffins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This applesauce bran muffin recipe offers a delightful combination of taste and health benefits. Using applesauce as a natural sweetener and moisture agent means you get tender muffins without the added fat or refined sugars common in other recipes.

The wheat bran adds a punch of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

The recipe is also versatile and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts, raisins, or spices. It’s a great way to sneak extra nutrients into your family’s diet and is perfect for meal prepping breakfast or snacks for the week.

Plus, these muffins come together quickly, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.

If you enjoy wholesome baking, you might also like our Best Vegan Cheese Scone Recipe for Fluffy, Tasty Bakes or explore savory options like the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups wheat bran
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 12-cup muffin tin
• Muffin liners or non-stick spray
• Cooling rack
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: wheat bran, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk these together until evenly blended.
3. In a separate medium bowl, mix the wet ingredients: applesauce, buttermilk, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
5. Fold in optional add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired. These add delightful texture and flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a simpler muffin.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full to leave room for rising.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and keeps the muffins fresh.

Tips & Variations

“For extra moist muffins, try adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the wet ingredients.”

If you want to make these muffins vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar as a buttermilk alternative.

Feel free to experiment with flavors by swapping the cinnamon and nutmeg for pumpkin pie spice or ginger. You can also mix in shredded carrots or zucchini for a veggie boost.

For a bit of indulgence, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple juice over cooled muffins. These also freeze beautifully; just wrap them tightly and thaw at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Applesauce bran muffins are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a few simple accompaniments. Spread a little almond butter or natural peanut butter on a warm muffin for a protein boost.

A smear of cream cheese or yogurt adds a creamy contrast to the hearty texture.

They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning or afternoon snack. For breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit and a glass of milk or your favorite smoothie.

Looking for more wholesome recipes to round out your meals? Check out our Best Indian Vegetarian Starter Recipes for Every Occasion or try the comforting Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide for a nourishing lunch option.

Conclusion

These applesauce bran muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful baked treat without compromising on health. They strike a perfect balance between moistness, sweetness, and fiber content, making them a smart choice for breakfast or snacks.

The recipe’s simplicity and versatility allow you to customize the muffins to your liking, whether you want to add nuts, dried fruit, or spices.

By incorporating wholesome ingredients like bran and applesauce, you’re getting a boost of fiber and natural sweetness that supports sustained energy throughout your day. Whether you’re preparing them for your family, meal prepping for busy mornings, or simply craving a comforting muffin, these applesauce bran muffins deliver on every level.

Don’t forget to explore other tasty and healthy options on our site, like Best Vegan Slowcooker Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals to keep your menu exciting and nutritious!

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