Oat and Bran Muffins with Applesauce are a healthy and delicious option that combines natural ingredients to create an ideal snack for any time of day. Their origin is linked to North American home cooking, where muffins emerged as a quick and easy-to-prepare bread, perfect for breakfasts or snacks. In Latin America, although they do not have a specific differentiated name, they are simply known as muffins, being very popular in countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. Oats, the main ingredient in this recipe, have been valued in many cultures for their nutritional benefits since ancient times, especially in countries like Chile and Peru where they are widely used in healthy baking.
Furthermore, the use of oat bran and applesauce adds fiber and natural moisture to the batter, allowing you to avoid excessive use of fats and sugars, something highly valued in modern baking. This type of muffin is an excellent alternative for those looking to watch their diet without giving up the flavor and tender texture characteristic of traditional muffins.
How to Prepare Oat and Bran Muffins with Applesauce
Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners, or grease the cups to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: brown sugar, oat bran, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and if you wish, add walnuts and raisins for extra texture and flavor.
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla, vegetable oil, eggs, and unsweetened applesauce until all ingredients are well combined.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into it.
Gently mix until everything is homogeneously combined, but avoid overmixing so the muffins remain fluffy.
Let the batter rest for 10 minutes so the bran and flour can absorb the liquids.
Spoon the batter into the paper-lined cups, filling them about three-quarters full.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes and then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
