Mormon Muffins

2 c. boiling water

1 T. plus 2 t. baking soda

1 c. Crisco

2 c. sugar

4 eggs

1 qt. buttermilk

5 c. flour

1 t. salt

4 c. 100% bran buds

2 c. 40% bran flakes

1 c. chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Add soda to hot water and let cool. Whip shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs slowly; mix well. Add buttermilk, flour and salt; mix well. Add soda water very slowly. Fold cereals into mixture. Spoon into greased muffin tins. Bake at 350 degrees for 18 minutes.