oat bran-applesauce muffins

from martha stewart magazine. this takes more time than it seems like it should, so be prepared to take a little more time to make them. by the way, my kids LOVED them!

2 C unsweetened applesauce

2 oz dates, pitted and chopped (1/2 C)

1 C wheat bran

1/2 C low-fat buttermilk

1 large egg

2 T honey

3/4 t grated fresh ginger

1/2 t vanilla extract
1/2 C plus 2T all-purpose flour

2 T flaxseed meal

1 1/4 t baking soda

1/4 t ground allspice

1/4 C plus 1 T old-fashioned oats (i used quick)

1. preheat oven to 375. coat muffin tin with cooking spray. place applesauce and dates in a medium saucepan. cook over medium heat, stirring often, until mixture is reduced to 1 1/4 C, 15-20 minutes. spread in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet, and let cool completely. (i got impatient and didn't let it cool completely and kept it in the pan and it was fine.)

2. transfer to a large bowl, and stire in bran, buttermilk, egg, honey, ginger and vanilla. let stand for 10 minutes.

3. meanwhile, whisk together flour, flaxseed, baking soda, salt, allspice, and 1/4 C oats. stir into bran mixture.

4. spoon batter into prepared tins, filling to the brims. sprinkle remaining 1 T oats over muffins. bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 20 minutes. remove immediately and place on wire racks.