Banana Carrot and Date Muffins

In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder and baking soda. Stir through the brown sugar, salt and bran flakes then make a well in the centre.

Finely chop or mash the dates. To mash the dates, place in a small saucepan with 1/4 cup of water. Bring the water to the boil then cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are soft and can be mashed easily with a fork.

Mix together the milk, egg, vanilla essence and mashed banana. Add to dry ingredients, with the dates, grated carrot and melted butter then stir until just combined.

Line a muffin tray with muffin cases and divide mixture evenly. Makes 12-16 muffins.

Bake at 220ºc for 18-20 minutes until golden. Remove from oven and leave in the muffin tray for a further 5 mintues then cool on a wire rack.