Prune Muffins

These whole wheat prune muffins are made extra healthy by replacing the oil in the recipe with ripe avocado. They’re a delicious way to keep your digestive system regular. Prunes are not only loaded with fiber but they also have a lot of antioxidants, iron, and potassium.

I know some people get freaked out when they see prunes in recipe but they’re actually quite tasty, just don’t overdo it. I love making recipes with prunes. I loved the show Little Paris Kitchen which was popular quite a few years ago. In one episode, the host made an amazing prune cake with goat cheese and pistachios. It was so good and it taught me to not be afraid to bake with prunes (again, just don’t overdo the prunes in the recipe). On a side note, Little Paris Kitchen is also a great show to get acquainted with French cooking.

These whole wheat muffins with prunes are great for breakfast or for an afternoon snack. They’re pretty simple to make and you can swap the whole wheat flour for all purpose flour if that’s what you have on hand. These were even a hit with my toddlers who are known for being picky at times. I try to make these every now and then since they don’t always eat enough fiber.

What ingredients do I need to make these prune muffins?

• Whole wheat flour: You can also substitute all purpose flour if you don’t have whole wheat flour on hand.
• Ground flaxseed: The ground flaxseed in this recipe is totally optional but I think it gives the muffins a nice nutty flavor. It also gives you an extra boost of nutrients.
• Baking powder and baking soda: To make the muffins rise.
• Salt: Just ½ a teaspoon is needed.
• Avocado: You’ll need one large ripe avocado for these muffins.
• Sugar: You’ll need only ¾ cup of sugar for this recipe.
• Egg: One large egg is all you need.
• Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is always best for baking.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream: You’ll want to use plain greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Chopped prunes: I used about ½ cup of chopped prunes. You can add more or less, if desired.

Does the avocado turn the muffins green or make them taste different?

If you use all purpose flour instead of whole wheat your muffins might have a slightly green tint. If using whole wheat flour you shouldn’t notice any difference. You also won’t be able to taste the difference.

Why cook or bake with prunes?

Prunes are great for keeping your digestive system regular. They’re also quite sweet. Prunes are also loaded with fiber, antioxidants, iron, and potassium.

Can you freeze these muffins?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these muffins. I recommend doing a double layer of plastic food wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze these muffins for up to three months.

To prepare from frozen, wrap the frozen muffins in a moist paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds at a time until they’re warmed all the way through.

How many muffins does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes about 15 muffins.

How to make these prune muffins

To make these whole wheat muffins with prunes, begin by gathering and measuring out your ingredients. You will need:

• 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour (you can also easily substitute all purpose flour in this recipe)
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (optional)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large ripe avocado (peeled, pitted, and mashed)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup greek yogurt or sour cream
• ½ cup of chopped prunes (you can use more, if desired)

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Place paper liners or coat a cupcake pan with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, flaxseed (optional), baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well with a large spoon.

Next, add the mashed avocado, egg, vanilla and greek yogurt. Mix with a hand mixer until well blended. Use a large spoon and stir in the chopped prunes.

Fill your muffin cups about three-fourths full. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the middle. Serve warm with butter on top (if desired).

If you liked these prune muffins, you might also like:

• Whole Wheat Chia Banana Bread
• Flaxseed and Chia Banana Muffins
• Whole Wheat Pumpkin Banana Bread

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