Fat-Free/Cholesterol-Free Bran Muffins

Description: These muffins have no fat but you would never know it, they are extremely moist with lots of flavor --- I have not tryed it as yet but I'm quite sure that Splenda may be used in place of sugar --- you may bake in 6 jumbo muffin tins but baking time will need to be increased.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wheat bran (miller's wheat bran)
• 1 cup fat-free buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or use half white and whole wheat)
• 1/2 cup white sugar (can use more sugar if desired) or 1/2 cup brown sugar (can use more sugar if desired)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2-1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Steps:

1. Set oven to 350 degrees F (set oven rack to second-lowest position).
2. Line 12 regular size muffin tins with paper liners.
3. In a medium bowl combine the buttermilk with wheat bran; allow to sit for 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl whisk together the egg whites with molasses, applesauce, mashed banana and vanilla; mix until well combined.
5. In a medium bowl combine the flour with sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
6. After the 10 minutes of sitting time add the egg mixture to the bran/buttermilk mixture; mix very well to combine, then add to the flour mixture; mix until just combined.
7. Mix in raisins (if using).
8. Divide into the muffin tins filling just over threee-quarters full.
9. Bake for about 20-22 minutes or until muffins test done.