Preheat oven to 350° Grease 18 holes of two muffin tins
In a large bowl, whisk together, flour, bran, baking soda and salt
In a smaller bowl, beat eggs lightly and combine with buttermilk, molasses, and oil
Pour egg mixture into dry ingredients and stir quickly together until just moistened. Do not over mix.
Fold dates and bacon into batter with a few quick stirs.
Spoon batter into prepared muffin tins, Place tins on middle rack in center of oven
Bake approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in tins for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack
Eat immediately, or freeze.
Notes
Buttermilk substitute: Stir 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar into two cups low fat milk. Allow to sit for 5 minutes.Substitute 3 tablespoon real bacon bits for the cooked bacon.