DIRECTIONS:

Combine water, 1 cup bran and honey in mixing bowl. Set aside. In large mixing bowl, mix sugar, shortening, soda and salt. Add eggs; beat well.

Stir in half the flour. Blend in buttermilk, then remaining flour. Add soaked bran and remaining 2 cups bran; blend well.

Pour batter into large plastic bowl. Cover tightly, date and refrigerate and use as directed.

How to Microwave Muffins:

Line each custard cup with two paper liners. Fill cups half full. Arrange in ring when microwaving 3 or more muffins at a time in custard cups. Rotate and rearrange after half the time. Remove from cups to wire rack immediately after baking. (Moist spots will dry on standing.)

Microwave (on High) Times:

1 muffin 20-40 seconds
2 muffins 1/2-1-1/2 minutes
4 muffins 1-2-1/2 minutes
6 muffins 2-1/2-4-1/2 minutes