Need a reason to stock up on raisins? Try this variation on raisin & bran muffins. My 9-year-old neighbor prepared this batch with minimal assistance. The thick and creamy batter produces a generous result.

Raisins in the muffins

 1 box (15 oz.) bran or raisin bran cereal

 ½ cup raisins

 ½ cup milled flax seed

 ½ cup canola oil

 1 cup natural apple sauce

 2 cups sugar

 5 cups flour

 2 teaspoons salt

 5 teaspoons baking soda

 6 egg whites

 1 quart buttermilk

Mix dry ingredients. Mix other ingredients. Combine. Fill muffin liners with batter and bake 20 minutes at 400 degrees.

Yield:  two dozen muffins