Apple Oatmeal Raisin Muffins

In my newest issue of Shape Magazine they had a recipe for Better Blueberry Muffins. These muffins had 173 calories compared to the 600+ that usual muffins have. I am a big fan of eating healthy so I decided to try them out. However, as usual my muffins turned out quite different from what I started out to make.

I didn't have many blueberries but I did have a bushel of apples and fresh raisins. I also added spices--cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice-- to mine. The end result? These muffins were pretty good. As good as a full fat fluffy and fresh one from the bakery? No, but pretty close. But for a third of the calories, pretty close it close enough for me.

Apple Oatmeal Raisin Muffins

*makes 12 muffins
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
1/2 cup splenda
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large apple, peeled and grated
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup orange juice

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Put raisins into a small bowl and  cover with orange juice. The raisins will absorb the juice and become plump and flavorful.

Combine four, splenda, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in a large bowl. In another bowl whisk together milk, egg, oil, and vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Add grated apple and raisins (including and extra orange juice).

Fill muffin pan with paper liners and divide batter evenly. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in the pan for several minutes and serve.