A Hearty Bran Muffin Inspired by a Baseball Legend’s Family
Nutritious, lightly sweetened, and perfect for breakfast, Willie Mays’ Favorite Bran Muffins combine wholesome bran, whole wheat flour, and natural honey into a simple homemade muffin that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This family recipe reflects the growing appreciation for healthier home baking while still delivering the comforting flavor of a classic breakfast favorite.
Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this recipe was contributed by Mae Louise Mays, wife of baseball legend Willie Mays. It demonstrates how family recipes, even from well-known figures, become part of the shared culinary traditions celebrated throughout the cookbook. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packed for breakfast on the go, these muffins are an easy way to start the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup natural bran
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup skim milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons natural honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Favorite fruit (optional)
Makes: 12 muffins
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease twelve medium (2½-inch) muffin cups or line them with paper or foil baking liners.
- Place the bran, whole wheat flour, skim milk, eggs, baking powder, honey, and salt into a large mixing bowl.
- Stir the ingredients together just until well blended. If desired, gently fold in your favorite fruit.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the muffins soft and tender.
- Fresh blueberries, diced apples, raisins, or chopped peaches make excellent fruit additions.
- Drizzle with a little extra honey before serving for natural sweetness.
- Freeze leftover muffins individually for quick weekday breakfasts.
- Serve with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced morning meal.
About the Creator
The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) compiled The Black Family Reunion Cookbook to preserve African American culinary traditions, treasured family recipes, and the stories that accompany them. Through recipes and food memories contributed by families across the United States, the cookbook celebrates the role of food in bringing generations together while honoring Black history, heritage, and community.
This particular recipe was contributed by Mae Louise Mays, wife of Willie Mays, one of baseball’s greatest players, reflecting the cookbook’s unique blend of family traditions and contributions from notable members of the African American community.
The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a treasured collection of heritage recipes, family traditions, and personal food memories that celebrate African American cooking, culture, and the joy of gathering around the family table.
