Muffins with Bran and Strawberry Jam

Start by preheating the oven to 220 degrees Celsius, ensuring that the temperature is even and suitable for perfectly baking the muffins. Prepare a special muffin tray, greasing it well with oil or butter to prevent sticking. Personally, I used two small trays, but it is essential to ensure that each compartment is well prepared for a successful result.

In a bowl, add the ground flax seeds, mixing them with water using a hand mixer. It is important to beat the mixture at maximum speed for 2-3 minutes until the water and flax seeds turn into a creamy, homogeneous paste with a pleasant texture. This combination not only enhances the flavor of the muffins but also gives them a high nutritional value.

In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, bran, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. These ingredients not only provide a delicious aroma but also a slightly crunchy texture due to the bran, which is an essential ingredient in this recipe.

In another bowl, mix the flax mixture with the oil and milk, adding chopped nuts for extra flavor. It is important to combine these liquid ingredients well so that they integrate perfectly. Then, combine the two mixtures, being careful not to mix more than ten times to maintain the fluffy texture of the muffins.

The resulting paste is divided into the muffin molds, filling them about halfway. Here comes the key to the recipe: add a teaspoon of strawberry jam to each mold, then cover with the rest of the mixture. This layer of jam will provide a sweet surprise in every bite.

The muffins are baked in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they become golden and fluffy. After removing them from the oven, let them cool in the tray for 3-5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. These delights are best served cold, with melted butter and an extra drizzle of jam on top, transforming them into a delicious and nutritious breakfast.

The recipe comes from a vegetarian cookbook, and the bran used is an excellent source of fiber. Wheat bran, for example, is an example of insoluble fiber that helps maintain intestinal health. On the other hand, barley bran is a soluble fiber that contributes to reducing the risk of heart attacks and heart diseases, making these muffins not only a tasty choice but also a healthy one. Enjoy them with pleasure!