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    Home » Breakfast

    Healthy Honey Bran Muffins

    Published: June 4, 2021 - Last updated: February 23, 2023 by Erika

    honey bran muffins thumbnail picture.
    Jump to Recipe
    honey bran muffins pin.

    This post contains affiliate links. I make a commission from sales. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclosure policy.

    These Healthy Honey Bran Muffins are a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option that you can enjoy guilt-free! Made with wholesome ingredients, these muffins are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whip up a batch of these muffins and enjoy them warm out of the oven, or save them for a quick and easy on-the-go snack during the week.

    bran muffins stacked on a cutting board.
    Jump to:
    • Why You’ll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients You’ll Need
    • Step-By-Step Instructions
    • Expert Tips
    • Variations
    • Storing & Freezing
    • Recipe FAQ's
    • More Recipes You'll Love
    • Healthy Honey Bran Muffins

    Check out my 100 Calorie Blueberry Muffins and my Air Fryer Bacon and Egg Cups for more delicious breakfast ideas!

    These healthy honey bran muffins are a delicious and nutritious baked good that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Made with whole wheat flour and Raisin Bran cereal, they are a great source of fiber and essential nutrients. Additionally, they are low in fat and sugar, making them a healthier alternative to traditional muffins.

    These muffins are a great option for busy mornings when you need a quick and nutritious breakfast, or as a snack to keep you going throughout the day.

    bran muffin cut in half.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Nutritious. These muffins are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals thanks to the whole wheat flour and Raisin Bran cereal.
    • Low in fat and sugar. These muffins are sweetened with honey and brown sugar, and include unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional muffins.
    • Easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these muffins are easy to whip up and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
    • Portable. These muffins can be stored in an airtight container and are easy to take with you on the go for a quick and nutritious snack anytime, anywhere.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    honey bran muffins labeled ingredients.
    • Boiling Water: Used to soften the Raisin Bran cereal, this ingredient helps to create a moist and flavorful muffin.
    • Raisin Bran Cereal: Adds a delicious, sweet flavor and is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
    • Whole Wheat Flour: A great source of fiber and nutrients, and it helps to make these muffins heartier and more filling.
    • Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents help to give these muffins a light and fluffy texture.
    • Salt: Helps to balance the sweetness of the muffins and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
    • Brown Sugar & Honey: These natural sweeteners add flavor and sweetness to the muffins without the need for refined sugar.
    • Unsweetened Applesauce: Used as a substitute for oil, applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness to the muffins.
    • Egg: Helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the muffins structure.
    • Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps to create a tender crumb in the muffins.

    Step-By-Step Instructions

    four image process making honey bran muffins.
    two image process making honey bran muffins.

    Step 1:

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a muffin tin with muffin cups, or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

    Step 2:

    In a large bowl, pour boiling water over Raisin Bran cereal and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften.

    Step 3:

    In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

    Step 4:

    Add brown sugar, honey, applesauce, egg, and buttermilk to the softened cereal mixture and stir until well combined.

    Step 5:

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

    Step 6:

    Scoop the batter into the muffin cups, filling each cup about ¾ full.

    Step 7:

    Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.

    Step 8:

    Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.

    NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!

    bran muffins on a cutting board.

    Expert Tips

    • Use boiling water to soften the Raisin Bran cereal. This will help to make the muffins moister and more flavorful.
    • Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense muffins. Mix the batter until just combined, and do not worry if there are a few lumps.
    • Use a cookie scoop to portion the batter into the muffin tin. This will help to ensure that the muffins are evenly sized.
    • Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help to prevent them from sticking to the muffin tin and breaking apart.

    Variations

    • Add nuts: Try adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for some extra crunch and protein.
    • Use different cereals: Instead of Raisin Bran cereal, try using other types of bran cereal or whole grain cereal for a different flavor.
    • Add fruit: Mix in chopped apples, berries, or dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a burst of flavor and sweetness.
    • Use different sweeteners: Experiment with different sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for a unique flavor.
    • Swap out buttermilk: If you don't have buttermilk, you can use regular milk or plant-based milk such as almond milk or soy milk.
    • Add spices: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for some extra warmth and spice.

    Storing & Freezing

    Storing: Allow the healthy honey bran muffins to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent moisture from building up inside the container and making the muffins soggy. Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store them for a longer period, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

    Freezing: You can also freeze the bran muffins for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you are ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave or oven.

    Recipe FAQ's

    Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?

    Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour if you prefer. However, whole wheat flour is a healthier option as it contains more fiber and nutrients.

    Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

    Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends instead of whole wheat flour to make these muffins gluten-free. Just make sure to use a blend that is suitable for baking.

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    honey bran muffins thumbnail picture.

    Healthy Honey Bran Muffins

    Erika
    These healthy honey bran muffins are a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option that you can enjoy guilt-free! Made with wholesome ingredients, these muffins are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whip up a batch of these muffins and enjoy them warm out of the oven, or save them for a quick and easy on-the-go snack during the week.
    5 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 mins
    Cook Time 20 mins
    Total Time 35 mins
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Servings 18 Servings
    Calories 85 kcal

    Equipment

    • Measuring Spoons and Measuring Cups
    • Utensil Set, 3-Piece
    • Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 6)

    Ingredients
      

    • ⅓ cup boiling water
    • 1 ½ cups Raisin Bran cereal
    • 1 cup whole wheat flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup brown sugar packed
    • ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • ¼ cup honey
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    Instructions
     

    • Preheat oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with muffin cups, or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
    • In a large bowl, pour boiling water over Raisin Bran cereal and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
    • Add brown sugar, honey, applesauce, egg, and buttermilk to the softened cereal mixture and stir until well combined.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
    • Scoop the batter into the muffin cups, filling each cup about ¾ full.
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
    • Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.

    Notes

    • Use boiling water to soften the Raisin Bran cereal. This will help to make the muffins moister and more flavorful.
    • Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense muffins. Mix the batter until just combined, and do not worry if there are a few lumps.
    • Use a cookie scoop to portion the batter into the muffin tin. This will help to ensure that the muffins are evenly sized.
    • Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help to prevent them from sticking to the muffin tin and breaking apart.
    • Storing: Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent moisture from building up inside the container and making the muffins soggy. Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store them for a longer period, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
    • Freezing: You can also freeze the muffins for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you are ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave or oven.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 85kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gSodium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14g

    All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

    Keyword healthy honey bran muffins, honey bran muffins
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Gina

      June 04, 2021 at 3:21 pm

      Love the honey drizzle on top of these, so good!

      Reply
    2. Emily

      June 04, 2021 at 3:24 pm

      I love healthy and delicious recipes! I'm always looking for something quick, easy AND healthy in the morning and now I found it. I'm so glad I found your recipe!

      Reply
    3. Rachna

      June 04, 2021 at 3:33 pm

      This looks delicious Erika. Best of all they are so healthy. I am going to try them over the weekend.

      Reply
    4. Beth

      June 04, 2021 at 3:59 pm

      These are so delicious and very yummy. My hubby loved these muffins. Perfect for us and our early mornings! So glad I can make a bunch and freeze them!

      Reply

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    Hi and welcome! My name is Erika and I’m a huge foodie with an appetite for almost anything. I love all foods, especially desserts! I try to cook things that are simple, practical, and delicious. Read More…

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