Sometimes I just crave an uber-healthy muffin, one that’s chock full of good-for-you stuff like flax, bran, raisins…you know the kind I mean. They don’t have to be big to do the trick. In fact, they usually are so densely packed with goodness they weigh twice as much as the the standard “light and fluffy” bran muffins you find in the nearest coffee shop, but are about half the size and better. This is the kind I like. Anything bigger and it’s just too much.

I call these types of muffins “pipe cleaners.” Don’t make me explain. All the hearty, fibery goodness should be explanation enough.

This is the pipe cleaner recipe I love.

Flax Oat Bran Muffins

1 1/2 cup unbleached white flour
3/4 cup flaxseed meal
3/4 cup oat bran
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup carrots, grated
1 large apple, grated
1/2 cup raisins
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla

In a large bowl, mix together all dry ingredients. Stir in carrots, apples and raisins. Combine milk, beaten eggs and vanilla. Pour liquid ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until ingredients are moistened. Do not over mix. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

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