Perfect Pear Muffins

Pears are high in fibre and contain a good amount of vitamin C as well. These muffins make a tasty, nutritious breakfast on the go.

1 cup (250 mL) pitted dates
2 ripe Bosc pears, cored
1 1/4 cups (310 mL) whole wheat flour
1 cup (250 mL) unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup (180 mL) natural almond butter
1/2 cup (125 mL) honey
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) cinnamon
1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda
1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking powder

Put dates in large mixing bowl. Boil 1/2 cup (125 mL) water and pour over dates to cover. Let dates soak for about 5 minutes.

Leaving water in the bowl, take a fork and knife and chop up dates until a pur'ee forms. Next, cut pears into small pieces and add to mixing bowl. Add all remaining ingredients to bowl and stir just until combined.

With spoon, scoop batter into muffin pan lightly greased with natural cooking spray. Bake at 350 F (180 C) for 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted into centre of a muffin comes out clean.

Makes 12 servings.

Each serving contains: 208 calories; 4 g protein; 8 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 34 g carbohydrates; 4 g fibre; 43 mg sodium

source: "Healthy Indulgence", alive #330, April 2010