2 cups natural bran
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 cup wheat germ
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tbsp grated orange rind
1/3 cup melted butter
1/3 cup molasses or corn syrup
1-3/4 cups buttermilk
In large bowl, stir together bran, flour, wheat germ, baking soda and salt. Add dates, pecans and orange rind: toss lightly to separate and coat dates.
In small bowl, blend butter, molasses and buttermilk. Pour over dry ingredients and stir together briefly just until blended.
Transfer to large greased or paper-lined muffin cups, filling each cup to the top. Bake in 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until well risen and firm to the touch. Let cool on racks and store in covered container. Freeze if desired.