Bran

Triticum aestivum (from wheat) Grain Component/Fiber Source

Bran Grain Component/Fiber Source

At a Glance

  • Category Grain Component/Fiber Source

The Forktionary Angle

"The powerhouse fibrous byproduct, essential for gut health and adding texture to baked goods."

Definition

The outer layer of a cereal grain, like wheat or oat, removed during milling. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Fiber Content Extremely high (up to 40% by weight)
Nutritional Value Rich in B vitamins & minerals
Usage Added to cereals, breads, muffins

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Bran are:

Nutty earthy slightly chewy neutral

Chef’s Secret

When adding bran to baked goods, increase the liquid slightly (about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of bran) to prevent a dry, crumbly texture, as bran absorbs a lot of moisture.

Best Substitutes

Ground Flaxseed

similar fiber/texture
Ratio 1:1

Psyllium Husk

high fiber, absorbency
Ratio 1:1

Whole Wheat Flour

contains bran but less concentrated
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for finely milled bran for smoother textures, or coarse for added chew. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Recipes Using Bran

British Columbian Weeknight Comfort Food Holiday Event

Applesauce Whole Wheat Cake

Moist and delicious applesauce whole wheat cake, bursting with warm cinnamon and raisin flavor! This recipe from Cooking Smart by Anne Lindsay is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat and keeps wonderfully for several days. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

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Course Healthy 30 Minutes Or Less Quick Breads

Aunt Annie's Bran Muffins

A treasured family recipe passed down for over 100 years! These delicious bran muffins are perfectly moist and subtly sweet, with the option to adjust the sugar to your liking. Get ready to taste a piece of history with every bite!

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Time To Make Breads Muffins Preparation

To Your Health Muffins

Fuel your body with these delicious and healthy To Your Health Muffins! Easy to make with simple ingredients, these moist and flavorful muffins are packed with carrots and raisins for a naturally sweet treat. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy dessert. Get your daily dose of goodness – bake these today!

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Time To Make Breads Healthy Equipment

Bakery Style Upside Down Hawaiian Pineapple Muffins

Get ready for a taste of paradise with these irresistible Bakery-Style Upside-Down Hawaiian Pineapple Muffins! Imagine warm, fluffy muffins bursting with juicy pineapple and a hint of brown sugar sweetness, topped with crunchy macadamia nuts (optional). Made with fresh or canned pineapple (your choice!), these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. They're also incredibly freezer-friendly, making them ideal for meal prepping. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers bakery-quality results every time. Get baking today!

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Preparation Breads Main Ingredient Breakfast

Banana Bran Muffins With Strawberry Butter

Moist and delicious Banana Bran Muffins bursting with flavor, topped with a swirl of homemade strawberry butter! This easy recipe combines the wholesome goodness of bran with the sweetness of bananas for a perfect breakfast or snack. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible muffins!

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Beginner Cook Low Cholesterol Gifts Breakfast

Almond Honey Granola

This irresistible Almond Honey Granola recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, using honey for a naturally sweet and less sugary crunch! Enjoy its nutty almond flavor and perfectly toasted texture. Experiment with additions like coconut flakes, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or powdered milk for a richer, customized granola. Perfect as a healthy breakfast, snack, or even as a unique pie crust! This recipe is adapted from an old newspaper clipping.

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Course Easy Main Ingredient Preparation

Best Banana Bran Muffins

These unbelievably moist and tasty banana bran muffins are a dream come true! Made with just 2 ripe bananas (perfect for using up those overripe beauties!), this recipe is quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time. Get ready for a burst of banana flavor with a satisfyingly crunchy bran topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack!

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60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Muffins Breads

A Pail In The Fridge 6 Week Bran Muffins

Grandma's secret to unbelievably delicious bran muffins! This recipe makes a massive batch of mix that lives happily in the fridge for up to 6 weeks, ready to bake whenever you crave a warm, buttery, honey-drizzled treat. Make a few, make a dozen – the choice is yours! The longer the batter sits, the richer the flavor becomes. Get ready for perfectly browned, crackly-topped muffins bursting with branny goodness.

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Time To Make Course Preparation Time To Make

Apricot Carrot Bread

This moist and delicious whole wheat apricot carrot bread recipe is a family favorite! Bursting with the sweetness of apricots and the subtle spice of warming fall spices, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a wholesome and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. A treasured find from years past, this recipe is finally ready to share!

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Healthy Healthy 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Big Batch Bran Muffins

This incredibly versatile recipe makes a HUGE batch of delicious bran muffins, perfect for busy mornings! Use oat bran for a twist, bake fresh muffins in your toaster oven, or freeze for up to a month. Customize with applesauce for a healthier option. Get ready for the most convenient and adaptable bran muffin recipe you'll ever find!

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Healthy Seasonal Dietary Occasion

Autumn Apple Muffins

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with these delicious and wholesome apple muffins! Made with a blend of wholesome ingredients and a touch of cinnamon spice, these muffins are perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. A family recipe, slightly adapted, these muffins are sure to become a fall favorite.

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