Bacon Apple Muffins

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400.
2. 2
   Line 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
3. 3
   In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
4. 4
   In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat, stirring, until crisp.
5. 5
   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a small bowl.
6. 6
   Add butter to the bacon fat in skillet and melt over medium heat.
7. 7
   Add apples and cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes or until softened.
8. 8
   Remove from heat and return bacon to pan.
9. 9
   In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, and buttermilk until well blended.
10. 10
    Add the egg mixture and bacon mixture to the flour mixture and stir until just blended.
11. 11
    Divide batter equally among prepared muffin cups.
12. 12
    Bake in preheated oven for 19-22 minutes or until tops are golden and a pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
13. 13
    Let cool in pan on a wire rack for 5 minutes, then transfer to the rack to cool.