Healthy Flax Muffins

Contributed by Debi Smith from Houston

Comments: Flax seeds are a rich source of the Omega 3 fatty acids you hear so much about today. Flax seeds are said to help prevent cancer, improve immune functions and help with male infertility. They are also nice and chewy, which is why I sprinkle them on everything. This recipe calls for ground flax seeds- I ground mine in a coffee bean grinder which worked great and added a little extra flavour to the muffins. You can add a topping of chopped walnuts sprinkled on the tops of the muffins before baking if you wish. Either way, these are a nutritious snack food best served with a large glass of skim milk or your favourite cup of green or herbal tea. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
3/4 cup ground flax seed
2 TBSP whole flax seed
3/4 cup oatmeal (not the quick version)
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt ( I used No Salt substitute)
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup raisins (any kind)
1/8 cup walnuts (optional)
2 large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup skim milk

Instructions:
Move the oven rack up one level so it is almost in the middle of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350F. Mix together all the dry ingredients, including the sugar. Stir in the cranberries and raisins. Add the eggs, applesauce and milk and stir just until moistened. Do NOT overstir or your muffins will be tough. Spoon the batter into paper-lined muffin tins. Only fill 3/4 full. If using walnuts, sprinkle a little on top of each muffin. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops spring back to the touch.
Makes 18 muffins.