Upper Crust Bakery Apple Bran Muffins Recipe

Taste the magic of Cambria Pines! This recipe recreates the legendary apple bran muffins from the Upper Crust Bakery, a hidden gem on California's central coast near Hearst Castle. These aren't your average muffins; they're bursting with wholesome goodness and irresistible flavor. Inspired by a local newspaper recipe, this slightly longer process is worth every minute. Make a batch to enjoy now, or prepare the batter ahead and bake whenever the mood strikes. Freezes beautifully, perfect for special occasions or a delightful weekday treat! Makes 24.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Calories 212 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 5.0 (5 Reviews)
Upper Crust Bakery Apple Bran Muffins 12

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Upper Crust Bakery Apple Bran Muffins

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How to Make Upper Crust Bakery Apple Bran Muffins

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole wheat bran, 1 ½ tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, and 1 cup chopped apples.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together: 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  4. Gently add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Refrigerate batter for at least 4 hours, or up to 1 week. (This step enhances flavor!)
  6. Line a 24-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease and flour the tin.
  7. Fill each muffin cup ¾ full with batter. (For standard-size muffins, fill ⅔ full.)
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden brown. The tops will overflow slightly.
  9. Let cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. For an extra touch of sweetness, brush the warm muffins with honey.
  11. Enjoy these delicious and healthy muffins! They freeze well for later enjoyment.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

10 g

Sugar

80g

Fat

8g

Carbs

11g

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