The Perfect Muffin to Start Your Day

So Le Creuset just introduced a new pan to their non-stick baking collection. The mini loaf pan. As soon as I saw it I knew it was going to be an addition to my collection. It's perfect for so many things - a little different than a muffin tin - but you can use it in the same way. I love making my muffins in this pan - it somehow makes them look a little more special than a round muffin (at least I think so!) So here you go, a muffin recipe that I've made 3 times in the last 10 days - it's a really good bran muffin. The dates give it extra sweetness - don't skimp on them - they really add to this muffin and the pecans give it a bit of heft. It's hearty, but not heavy and a nice breakfast or midmorning snack:) Oh, 1 more thing - the muffin tin is available for purchase at crocusandivy.ca - in case you need to tell Santa where to get you one;)
Pecan Date Bran Muffins
In a medium sized bowl, mix together and let stand for 10 minutes
1 1/2 c. bran
1 1/4 c. buttermilk
3/4 tsp. baking soda
In a separate large bowl, add in
1 c. flour
1 1/4 tsp. b. powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. chopped dates (don't skimp - these add a lovely sweetness)
1 c. chopped pecans
In a small bowl, whisk together
1 egg
1/2. c. veg. or canola oil
1/2 c. b.sugar
2 tbsp. maple syrup
1 tsp. orange zest (about 1 good sized orange)
1 tsp. vanilla
Stir egg mixture into bran mixture and stir until combined.
Add the egg/bran mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined - don't overmix.
Pour into greased or paper lined muffin tins and bake for about 15-18 minutes at 350.
Remove from pan, let cool (or not) slather with butter and .....
Enjoy:)