Chocolate-Date Bran Muffins

Not your grandma’s bran muffins! Still high in fiber, these hearty treats are loaded with extras to keep them flavorful and interesting. Bran lends nutty flavor, earthy sweetness, and flaky texture, and whole wheat flour gives these muffins their signature heft without being overly dense. Chewy dates and crisp slivered almonds break up the moist and tender crumb, and orange juice brings a bright and fresh finish. The result is a muffin equally well-suited for breakfast or a midafternoon snack, ready to be tucked into a tote bag to save the day when the 3 p.m. hunger slump sets in.

Like all muffins, these are ready to take on whatever mix-ins you prefer or have on hand. Swap in your favorite chopped dried fruit or nuts for the dates or almonds, add shredded coconut, or use chocolate chips if you don’t feel like chopping up a bar.