The Best Homemade Bran Muffin Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade bran muffins are a wholesome treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. You’ll love how easy they are to make while still being packed with flavor.
- They’re full of fiber, making them a nutritious choice to start your day.
- The recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- You can customize them with add-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips for extra fun.
Recipe

Bran muffins are a hearty and nutritious breakfast option, packed with fiber and wholesome ingredients. These homemade bran muffins are easy to make and perfect for a quick, healthy start to your day.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups wheat bran
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, mix wheat bran and buttermilk. Let stand for 10 minutes.
- Beat together oil, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla in a separate bowl. Add to the bran mixture.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in raisins if using.
- Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Substitute buttermilk with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Makes 12 muffins
Nutrition
Bran muffins are a nutritious breakfast option packed with fiber and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade bran muffins with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries—it adds a sweet, juicy contrast. For something savory, I often spread them with avocado or a bit of cream cheese for a creamy twist. It’s a simple way to make these muffins feel like a complete, satisfying snack or meal.
Fresh Fruit Pairings
Why not take your bran muffins to the next level with some fresh fruit? I love pairing them with sliced bananas or berries—their sweetness balances the muffin’s earthy flavor. A handful of juicy blueberries or raspberries adds a pop of color and freshness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll top mine with diced mango or peaches for a tropical twist. Apples or pears, thinly sliced, bring a crisp texture that’s irresistible. Even a simple side of grapes or orange segments works wonders. Trust me, the combo’s so good, you’ll forget you’re eating something healthy. Give it a try!
Savory Spread Options
Looking to balance out the sweetness? I love pairing bran muffins with savory spreads—it’s the perfect combo! Cream cheese is my go-to; add a pinch of garlic powder or chives for extra flavor. Hummus works wonders too, especially with a sprinkle of paprika. For something richer, try avocado mash seasoned with lemon juice and salt. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up herbed butter with parsley, thyme, and a dash of pepper. These spreads add depth and make breakfast or snacks feel special. Experiment to find your favorite—it’s a tasty way to enjoy those hearty muffins without overpowering their nutty goodness!