Oatmeal-Apple-Cinnamon Muffins

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup quick-cooking (not instant) oatmeal

1 large egg

1/2 cup canola, safflower or corn oil

1/2 cup turbinado or white sugar

1/2 cup whole-wheat flour

1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose white flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup finely cubed apple

1/2 cup raisins

2 tablespoons boiling water

Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.

In a medium bowl, mix the buttermilk and oatmeal together with a fork. Set aside for 10 minutes. Blend in egg, oil and sugar.

Sift the flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon into a large bowl. Make a well in the center, and stir in the oatmeal mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together till smooth. Do not beat. Stir in apple, raisins and boiling water.

Fill each muffin 3/4 cup full, and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.

Makes 12 to 15 muffins.

Associated Press