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Bran Muffins_001a
Bran Muffins are a wholesome, old-fashioned breakfast favorite that date back to early 20th-century American baking traditions. This recipe, written on vintage stationery from The Home Insurance Company of New York, evokes a sense of timeless kitchen warmth. Bran muffins became popular as part of the early health food movement, valued for their fiber-rich bran and simple ingredients. Their mildly sweet, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with butter or honey, making them a comforting choice for breakfast or afternoon tea. These muffins represent the simplicity of homemade baking, no frills, just pure, hearty flavor that never goes out of style.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12 muffins
Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups bran (wheat bran or bran cereal)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar (heaping)
  • 1 tbsp lard (melted, or butter as modern substitute)
  • 1 egg
  • milk (about 1 cup, enough to create a medium-soft batter)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin lightly with butter or oil.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, bran, baking powder, and sugar. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Add the melted lard (or butter) and the egg to the bowl. Gradually pour in enough milk to form a medium-soft batter, it should be thick but spoonable.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups

  • Spoon the batter evenly into prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

  • Allow muffins to cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter or honey.

Tips

  • Use paper liners or grease tins well to prevent sticking.
  • Do not overmix; stir just until combined for tender muffins.
  • Substitute melted butter or oil for lard if preferred.
  • Add a small handful of raisins or chopped dates for sweetness.
  • A pinch of salt (⅛ to ¼ tsp) can enhance overall flavor.
  • Let batter rest 5 minutes before baking for better hydration.
  • Sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking for a light crust.
  • Bake until a toothpick comes out clean to avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Calories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 140mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword bran muffins, breakfast, easy baking, heritage recipe, homemade, old fashioned, quick bread, vintage recipe
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