Not all sugars raise blood sugar at the same speed, and maple syrup is a useful example because it swaps in easily for anything that calls for a liquid sweetener. Baked into individual portions instead of one shared pan, these cups also make it easy to grab exactly one serving instead of guessing at a slice, the way you would with a Date Syrup Gingerbread Loaf.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk of choice
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced fruit or berries, fresh or frozen
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin well.
- Combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted oil, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stir to combine, then fold in the fruit.
- Divide evenly among the muffin cups, filling almost to the top.
- Bake 20 to 22 minutes, until set and lightly golden on top.
- Cool 5 minutes in the tin before removing. Store in the fridge or freezer.
Nutrition Facts (per cup)
| Calories | 130 |
| Total fat | 5g |
| Total carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 115mg |
Why This Is Good for Your Gut
A 2021 systematic review of glycemic index values lists maple syrup at roughly 54 and table sugar at roughly 65 on the glucose-referenced scale, meaning maple syrup raises blood sugar more slowly gram for gram.[1] A slower rise gives the gut and pancreas more time to respond, which is one reason a liquid sweetener swap like this can matter even before fiber or fat content comes into it.
These freeze well for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the microwave for about 45 seconds, or let one thaw overnight in the fridge. Keep a batch next to your morning coffee for a grab-and-go breakfast.
This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.