In mid-Michigan, summer has come early! And I’m not complaining–not after that long, drawn-out winter. And I love to be in our New Start kitchen, baking for my family and trying out new recipes for the cooking club. But with a huge garden to care for and the summer heat, I don’t like to be baking all morning long. So even though, I love making homemade bread, I need it quick and easy sometimes. And nothing is quicker than “It’s a Date Muffins!”
I like to make mine with yeast and since there’s no double rising like in baking bread, they still qualify in my book for quick bread. One of our favorites is a muffin that is sweetened with dates. Dates are my favorite sweetener. They’re not lacking in healthy nutrients like so many others. I think of them as power-packed! Just a 3 1/2 ounce serving (less than 1/4 of a cup) gives you 8 grams of fiber too! This is a plus in my book, because the more fiber I can get, the easier it is for me to drop the pounds. Did you know they are also a good source of calcium? And so much more.
So what could be better than a date muffin? They are a tasty way to enjoy more whole grains for breakfast or even as a nice treat when packed in a lunch. Your kids and grand-kids will love them too! This recipe will give you 2 dozen muffins.
Dates Health-Bite
Did you know that dates are rich in iron? If you’re feeling tired, a handful of dates may be what you need. Many people who experience fatigue are often low in iron. Because dates are a good source of iron and carbohydrates, they can give you a healthy boost of energy.
It's a Date Muffins
Ingredients
- 2 packages of dry active yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water 110 degrees
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cup of quick oats
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/8 cup hot water
- 3 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water combined with honey. Let stand til the yeast is foamy (this takes about 10 minutes). Combine oats, salt, hot water and flour with yeast. Mix and beat 2 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients.
- Spoon into nonstick or silicone muffin tins til 2/3 full. Let rise until slightly rounded (about 5-10 minutes). Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes.
