Recipe: Orange and Pecan Bran Muffins

Orange and Pecan Bran Muffins
rec.food.recipes/Robin Cowdrey (1999)
Makes 12 large muffins

2 cups natural wheat bran
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 cup wheat germ
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 Tbsp grated orange rind
1-3/4 cups buttermilk
1/3 cup melted butter or oil
1/3 cup molasses or corn syrup

In large bowl, stir together bran, flour, wheat germ, baking soda and salt. Add dates, pecans and orange rind; toss lightly to separate and coat dates. In small bowl, blend buttermilk, butter and molasses. Pour over dry ingredients and stir together briefly just until blended. Transfer to large greased or paper-lined muffin cups, filling each cup to the top. Bake in 400F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until well risen and firm to the touch. Let cool on racks and store in covered containers. Freeze if desired.