Oatmeal-Apple-Raisin Muffins

 by: LeAnn R. Ralph

These muffins are not only tasty, but they're also a good source of fiber. In recent years, health experts have come to realize that fiber is an important part of a heart-healthy diet. Using Canola oil also increases the health benefits of these muffins.

• 1 egg

• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice added)

• 1 cup oatmeal (either quick-cooking or old-fashioned oatmeal; I like to use the old-fashioned)

• 1/2 cup of brown sugar

• 1/2 cup cooking oil

• 2 cups flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 apple chopped

• 1/2 cup raisins

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Chop apple and put into a mixing bowl. Add the raisins. Measure out the remaining ingredients. Stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Grease muffin cups and fill to 2/3 full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then remove from the muffin tins. Makes 2 dozen muffins.

Hint: Instead of greasing the muffin tins, use cupcake papers. That way you won't have to work so hard to scrub out your muffin tins.