America's Test Kitchen Season 14 Episode 14 Oatmeal Muffins & Granola

In episode 14 of season 14 of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Oatmeal Muffins & Granola," the team focuses on creating delicious and nutritious breakfast options. Hosts Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster start off by tasting various brands of instant oatmeal, comparing texture and flavor to find the best option for homemade oatmeal muffins.

Next, the team experiments with different types of oats and oatmeal in order to develop the perfect recipe for these muffins. They test variables such as the proportion of oats to flour, the type of sweetener used, and the method of incorporating the oats into the batter. The goal is to create a muffin that is both hearty and moist, with a subtle sweetness that doesn't overpower the nuttiness of the oats.

While the oatmeal muffins are in the oven, the team turns their attention to homemade granola. They start by breaking down the various components of granola - grains, nuts, and dried fruit - and experimenting with different combinations and ratios. They also explore different techniques for achieving the perfect crunchy texture, from using an egg white to creating a syrupy coating. The result is a versatile granola that can be customized to the tastes of any home cook.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide useful tips and tricks for baking with oats and creating tasty yet nutritious breakfast options. They explain the importance of measuring ingredients accurately, using the right kind of oats for each recipe, and incorporating healthy ingredients such as flaxseed and chia seeds into baked goods.

Finally, the team presents their finished products - a batch of tender oatmeal muffins and a jar of crunchy homemade granola - for taste-testing. The hosts demonstrate how the muffins can be easily customized with mix-ins such as blueberries or chocolate chips, while the granola is versatile enough to be eaten on its own or used as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

"Oatmeal Muffins & Granola" is a must-watch episode for anyone looking for healthy and delicious breakfast options. The hosts' clear explanations and step-by-step demonstrations make it easy to recreate these recipes at home, while their flavor testing and experimentation provide valuable insights into the science of baking with oats. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this episode has something to offer.