Houstonist Cooks: Flaxseed Bran Muffins

September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and because we care about your health, dear reader, we are disclosing our super top secret muffin recipe. A recent study conducted at MD Anderson indicates that flaxseed may have a role in cancer prevention. In particular, prostate cancer is linked to testosterone, and the lignans in flaxseed may reduce testosterone levels. Flaxseed is also chock full of fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and B-vitamins. These muffins (adapted from this recipe) are a tasty way to get more of the tiny cancer fighting seeds into your diet, even if you don't have a prostate.

Flaxseed Bran Muffins

Makes 12 muffins

no-stick spray
1 cup wheat bran (find it in Whole Foods bulk section or at larger grocery stores in the health food aisle)
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 to 1/4 cup flaxseeds
1 ¼ cup buttermilk
1/3 cup agave nectar or 1/2 cup sugar
1-4 ounce single serving cup of apple sauce
1 egg
1½ Tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1. Pre-heat the oven to 325° F (or 350° F if using sugar). Spray no-stick spray into the cups of a muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl mix the wheat bran, white and wheat flours, baking soda, salt and flax seeds. Set aside.
3. In a smaller bowl, mix the remaining ingredients. If using sugar, mix for about 30 seconds to make sure the sugar is mostly dissolved.
4. Mix the wet ingredients with the dry, and stir until just combined. Spoon or pour batter into the prepared muffin tin. Bake the muffins for 18-20 minutes, until the top springs back when pressed in the center. Let cool in the pan.