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Cranberry & White Chocolate Chip Oaties

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If you subscribe to a plethora of food blogs and websites – as I do – you’ve probably lately seen many recipes for cookies featuring dried cranberries and white chocolate. The tart dried fruit is the perfect complement to the sweet chocolate, and the color scheme is undoubtedly holiday-worthy.

What I’m offering you here is a healthier version of this popular cookie. This recipe calls for unsweetened applesauce to replace 1/2 of the fat, and a conservative amount of brown sugar to sweeten the cookies. After about 12 minutes in the oven, these cookies emerge soft on the inside with a crisp golden-brown rim.

If you’re looking for a lighter holiday treat to share with family and friends (or to enjoy yourself), these cookies are a great pick!

Cranberry & White Chocolate Chip Oaties

NameCranberry & White Chocolate Chip Oaties
CuisineDessert
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings24 cookies
Yield24 cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 Tbsp canola oil
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 egg white
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the butter, oil, and brown sugar. Mix on high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, stopping once or twice to scrape the sides of the bowl.
  3. Add applesauce, egg white, and vanilla, and mix to combine. Add flour, rolled oats, salt, and cinnamon, and mix just until combined.
  4. With a rubber spatula, fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
  5. Line a baking sheet with a Silpat or a piece of parchment paper. Using a mini ice cream scoop, spoon dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  6. Bake for about 12 minutes, until golden-brown around the sides but soft in the center. Let cool on a cooling rack.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (1 cookie)

  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
    • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g

Please note that these nutrition estimates are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used in the recipe.

Maple Cranberry with Goat Cheese Filling Recipe

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Muffins are a delightful treat that can brighten up your mornings and add a touch of sweetness to your day.

If you’re looking for a unique twist on traditional muffins, then you’re in for a treat with our Maple-Cranberry Muffins with Goat Cheese Filling recipe.

These muffins combine the comforting flavors of maple syrup and cranberries with a surprising and creamy goat cheese center. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or a tasty snack. Let’s get baking!

NameMaple Cranberry with Goat Cheese Filling
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time20 minutes
Total Time35-40 minutes
Servings12
Yield12

Ingredients

3/4 cup crumbled (about 3 oz) dried cranberry-covered goat cheese, softened (alternately, add 2 Tbsp dried cranberries to 3 oz plain goat cheese)

1 Tbsp pure maple syrup

1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

2 cups white whole wheat flour

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

2 large eggs

1 large egg white

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1 tsp maple extract

1 cup milk (I used skim, but buttermilk, 1%, or non-dairy milk would suffice)

1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Place the mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the muffin batter.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with cooking spray.

3. Prepare the Muffin Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Gently fold in the dried cranberries into the muffin batter.

4. Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon a small amount of muffin batter into each muffin cup, filling it about one-third full.

Make a small well in the center of each muffin using the back of a spoon.

Take the goat cheese filling from the refrigerator and place a teaspoonful into the well of each muffin.

Top each muffin with the remaining batter, covering the goat cheese filling completely.

5. Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the muffin (not the goat cheese filling) comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Enjoy

Serve these delightful Maple-Cranberry Muffins with Goat Cheese Filling as a delicious breakfast treat or a delightful snack. The combination of sweet maple, tart cranberries, and creamy goat cheese is sure to please your taste buds.

The sweet and creamy filling is a lovely complement to the light and spongy muffins, which are made with white whole wheat flour.  Unsweetened applesauce stands in for oil and pure maple syrup replaces refined sugar, making these tasty muffins a smart choice.

Bake a batch of these muffins on Friday morning, and everyone will come flocking to the kitchen!

Estimated Nutrition per serving

Calories250 calories
Fat10g
Saturated Fat6g
Cholesterol45mg
Sodium280mg
Carbohydrates35g
Fiber1g
Sugars18g
Servings12
Protein4g

These nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used in the recipe. Please adjust them accordingly if you have dietary restrictions or are using alternative ingredients. Enjoy your Maple-Cranberry Muffins with Goat Cheese Filling!

Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal Recipe

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Are you looking for a wholesome and delightful breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor?

Look no further than this Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal recipe! This dish combines the goodness of oats.

the sweetness of blueberries, and the tropical flair of coconut to create a breakfast sensation that will leave you craving for more. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrition to kickstart your day.

NameBlueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings6
Yield1
Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal

I bookmarked this recipe from Tara’s gorgeous blog Seven Spoons ages ago, and am kicking myself for not making it sooner. I made a few substitutions and additions to the original recipe, and am already excited to try out various ingredient combinations.

Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal

This oatmeal is comprised of quickly-assembled layers that are baked together into a deliciously satisfying morning meal. Sliced bananas and frozen blueberries are topped with a mixture of rolled oats, chewy dried blueberries, rich coconut flakes, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and fragrant spices. Poured over the oats is a mixture of milk, egg, vanilla extract, and sweet maple syrup.

After about 40 minutes in the oven, the baked oatmeal emerges with a crisp crust enveloping a soft filling. The double dose of blueberry pairs well with the coconut and spices, and the contrast of textures is lovely. A bit more time-consuming that stovetop oats, sure… but baked oatmeal just might become my weekend breakfast staple.

Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal

Ingredients

  • canola oil cooking spray
  • 2 medium bananas, sliced
  • 3/4 cup frozen blueberries
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened dried blueberries
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
  • 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • pinch each ground nutmeg, cloves, and salt
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp margarine or butter, melted & cooled, divided
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) or use a silicone baking mold for easy removal.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well.

Add the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), milk, egg (or flax egg for a vegan option), and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh or thawed blueberries. The burst of blueberry goodness in each bite is what makes this dish special.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown, and the oatmeal is set.

Serve

Once done, remove the Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice it into squares or scoops, and serve it warm. Drizzle a bit of honey or sprinkle some extra shredded coconut on top for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal

Nutrient-Rich Oats are a fantastic source of fiber and essential nutrients, while blueberries provide a healthy dose of antioxidants. Combined with the healthy fats in coconut and nuts, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse.

Convenient This recipe is perfect for busy mornings. You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat portions for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Customizable Feel free to adjust the sweetness level to your liking. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the honey or maple syrup.

Versatile You can experiment with different fruits, nuts, or spices to suit your taste. Raspberries, strawberries, or chopped apples can be excellent alternatives to blueberries.

Start your day on a nutritious and delicious note with this Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal recipe. Whether you enjoy it as a weekday breakfast or serve it to guests for brunch, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Plus, the aroma of baking oats and blueberries will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting. Give it a try, and enjoy a hearty and wholesome breakfast experience!

Blueberry-Coconut Baked Oatmeal

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Calories300 calories
Carbohydrates 35-40g
Protein6-8g
Fat8-10g
Fiber4-5g
Servings6
Sugars15-18g

Please note that the provided nutrition values are rough estimates and can vary based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used in the recipe. Additionally, serving sizes may vary, so adjust the values accordingly if you cut the dish into more or fewer servings.

Sleepy time Baby Banana Pops

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I was first introduced to the idea of incorporating chamomile tea in baby popsicles by a fellow mom of a parents group I am a member of.  She is knowledgeable about herbal remedies for kids/babies, and cleverly refers to the frozen treats as “herbsicles”.

Chamomile is a gentle, naturally caffeine-free herb that not only has the ability to induce a calm demeanor conducive to sleep, but can also settle gastrointestinal upsets, which are common amongst babies. Fortunately, Lily has never suffered from colic, but she is a wakeful 8 month old who sometimes has difficulty settling down for sleep; especially now that she’s actively exploring her new world!

The other two ingredients in these pops – yogurt & banana – are also recognized as gentle & natural sleep aids. The former contains tryptophan (yep, just like Thanksgiving Day turkey!), and calcium, which can reduce stress. The latter are chock full of both magnesium & potassium, which can relax overactive muscles.

I know there is some concern about giving babies dairy products before the age of one, but yogurt & cheese are generally considered safer than cow’s milk. Here’s more information on the topic if you’re interested.

So… am I claiming that these tasty little pops will turn your son or daughter into a magicsleepingbaby? Of course not! But if there’s even the slightest chance that they might help to mellow your baby before bed or naptime, isn’t it worth a shot?

Lily loves the popsicles, but big kids and adults are sure to enjoy them as well!

Sleepytime Baby Banana Pops

NameSleepy Time Baby Banana Pops
CuisineMixed
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time0 minutes
Total Time2-3 hours (including freezing)
Servings4 servings
Yield8 banana pops (2 per serving)

Ingredients (yield depends on size of popsicle molds)

  • 1 medium-sized very ripe banana, preferably organic, peeled
  • 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt, preferably organic
  • 1/2 cup brewed chamomile tea, cooled completely

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend/process until smooth.

Pour into baby popsicle molds (I like these). Freeze until frozen, at least 2-3 hours for small molds (longer for larger molds).

Estimated Nutrition per Serving

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and optional toppings used.

  • Calories: 80 calories per serving
  • Protein: 2 grams per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams per serving
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 grams per serving
  • Sugars: 8 grams per serving
  • Fat: 2 grams per serving
  • Saturated Fat: 0 grams per serving
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams per serving
  • Sodium: 5 milligrams per serving

Please keep in mind that these nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s advisable to calculate the exact nutritional information based on your ingredients and serving sizes. Enjoy your Sleepy Time Baby Banana Pops!

Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancake Muffins

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I’d love to tell you that the whole “pancake muffin” concept behind this recipe was intentional, but sadly… no. You see, I bought these square muffin liners, thinking they were the kinds that can stand on their own without the support of a muffin tin. As soon as I scooped the muffin batter into the cups, though, I realized I was sorely mistaken. As the muffins baked, the batter spread, and the muffins took on a pancake appearance.

Buuuuut, these muffins’ appearance is not the only trait that resembles pancakes. The buttermilk & maple syrup in the batter lends a flavor reminiscent of the classic breakfast food as well.

Think of ‘em as pancakes you can eat one-handed on the way to work or school.

Soft, moist, chewy, and dotted with decadent dark chocolate chips, these pancake muffins might have an identity crisis when it comes to exactly which breakfast food they actually are, but don’t let that stop you from making them!

Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancake Muffins

NameChocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancake Muffins
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time18 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings12
Yield1 muffin per serving

Ingredients (12 pancake muffins)

  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup low fat buttermilk, well shaken
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, preferably Grade B
  • 1 large egg, preferably organic
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp pure maple extract
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup dark chocolate cups

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place 12 muffins liners on a baking sheet.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, maple syrup, egg, oil, and both extracts.

Toss the chocolate chips with the flour mixture. Add the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until incorporated.

Divide the batter evenly amongst the muffin cups.

Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean about 15 minutes.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 3g

Please note that the nutrition information provided here is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used in the recipe. It’s always a good idea to calculate precise nutrition information if you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns.

Baked Cherries and Peaches with Oat Topping — A Light Dessert or Breakfast Treat

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I was tempted to entitle this recipe “Cherry-Peach Crisp”, but the truth of the matter is this healthier version of the classic dessert differs from the original in many ways.

The filling relies on the natural sweetness of in-season fresh stone fruit, so there is no need for added sugar. Instead of butter or oil for the oat topping, I used unsweetened apple butter; this ingredient results in a chewy rather than crunchy topping, which is why I hesitate to call this a “crisp”.

Equally well-suited for a light breakfast served with Greek yogurt or as a guilt-free dessert, this cup of fruity and oat-y tastiness showcases the healthful ingredients of a traditional fruit crisp with none of the unhealthy components.

Baked Cherries and Peaches with Oat Topping

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cherries and Peaches Recipe

This baked cherries and peaches with oat topping is the kind of recipe that feels both comforting and nourishing. It relies on the natural sweetness of ripe fruit, so it doesn’t feel heavy or overly indulgent. The oat topping adds just the right amount of texture, making every bite warm, fruity, and satisfying.

It’s also incredibly versatile — perfect as a lighter dessert, a weekend breakfast, or even a healthy snack. Whether you’re looking for a simple way to enjoy seasonal fruit or a wholesome alternative to traditional crisps and crumbles, this recipe fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle.

Baked Cherries and Peaches with Oat Topping

Name: Baked Cherries and Peaches with Oat Topping
CuisineFusion
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings6 servings
YieldOne 9×9-inch baking dish

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pitted & halved fresh sweet cherries, preferably organic
  • 2 medium-sized peaches, preferably organic, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 1 tsp arrowroot powder OR cornstarch
  • 2 Tbsp fruit juice (I used POM Wonderful), divided
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 Tbsp flour (all-purpose or whole wheat pastry flour will work best)
  • 2 Tbsp Sucanat or brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp unsweetened applesauce OR unsweetened apple butter

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Lightly coat 4 individual oven-safe ramekins with canola oil cooking spray.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the cherries, peaches, arrowroot or cornstarch, and 1 Tbsp pomegranate juice. Stir to mix well and spoon into the prepared ramekins.
  4. In a separate small bowl, stir together the oats, flour, Sucanat, and cinnamon. Add the remaining 1 Tbsp pomegranate juice and applesauce or apple butter; stir to moisten the oat mixture.
  5. Evenly divide the oat topping between the fruit-filled ramekins.
  6. Set ramekins onto a baking sheet and bake until the fruit filling is bubbling and the oat topping is golden, about 20-25 minutes.
  7. Allow to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature (or chilled the next morning for breakfast!).

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 280 calories per serving
  • Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Vitamins and Minerals
    • Vitamin A: 15% DV
    • Vitamin C: 15% DV
    • Calcium: 3% DV
    • Iron: 8% DV

Please note that these nutrition values are estimated and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Additionally, serving sizes may vary, so adjust the portion size accordingly based on your dietary needs.

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

A few simple tips can make this baked fruit dessert even better:

  • Use ripe, flavorful fruit: The sweeter the cherries and peaches, the better the final dish will taste without needing extra sugar.
  • Don’t overbake: Baking just until the fruit is tender and bubbling helps preserve its juiciness and prevents the topping from drying out.
  • Customize the topping: If you enjoy extra crunch, a small handful of chopped nuts or seeds can be added to the oat topping without changing the overall character of the recipe.

These small adjustments can elevate the texture and flavor while keeping the recipe just as wholesome.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is delicious served warm, straight from the oven, but it’s equally enjoyable at room temperature or chilled. For a more indulgent dessert, it pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt. For breakfast, try serving it with plain yogurt or a splash of milk.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, or enjoy cold for a quick, ready-to-eat option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries and peaches for this recipe?
Yes, frozen fruit works well if fresh cherries and peaches aren’t available. Let the fruit thaw slightly and drain off excess liquid before baking to avoid a watery texture.

Is this baked cherries and peaches recipe healthy?
This recipe is a lighter dessert because it relies on the natural sweetness of fruit and uses a simple oat topping. It’s a good choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a wholesome, fruit-based treat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving, or enjoy it cold as a quick snack or breakfast.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats in the topping while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.

What can I serve with baked cherries and peaches?
This dish pairs well with yogurt, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of cream. It can also be enjoyed on its own for a simple and satisfying dessert.

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter & Honey Cereal Bars

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Here’s a perfect no-bake back-to-school snack/dessert, the ingredients for which you most likely already have in your kitchen; especially if you have kiddos.

I bought a huge box of toasted whole grain oats cereal (basically Cheerios) from Trader Joe’s a few weeks ago, with Lily in mind. I place a handful on her high chair tray every morning, and enjoy watching her rake palmfuls towards her mouth… though most end up on the floor. She hasn’t yet mastered her pincer grasp, but when she starts working on it, the O’s will be perfect for practicing.

Neither John nor I are big cold cereal eaters, and since Lily is going through the box very slowly, I decided to incorporate the O’s into a recipe.

Although these cereal bars are definitely kid-friendly, they’re not for tots under the age of one. If babies under 12 months of age eat honey, they could develop Botulism, and it is recommended to hold off on all nut products in order to stave off possible allergies.

Sorry Lil’… these are for Mommy and Daddy for the time being ;).

by Lauren Zembron (adapted from Honey-Peanut Squares)
Name:3 Ingredient Peanut Butter & Honey Cereal Bars
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Time2 minutes (for melting peanut butter and honey)
Total Time1-2 hours (including chilling time)
Servings12 bars
Yield12 cereal bars

Ingredients (9 bars)

  • 1/2 cup crunchy natural peanut butter, well-stirred
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 3 cups toasted whole grain oats cereal (I used Trader Joe’s O’s)

Instructions

Line an 8 x 8 inch square pan with parchment.

Combine peanut butter & honey in a large saucepan and set over medium heat. Heat until mixture just starts to simmer, about 2-3 minutes, stirring. Remove from heat and stir until mixture is well-combined.

Stir in cereal until evenly coated. Pour mixture into prepared pan, cover with parchment, and press firmly. Let sit for 1 hour. Cut into bars.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (1 bar):

  • Calories: 140 calories
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 9g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Potassium: 110mg
  • Vitamin C: 0%
  • Calcium: 1%
  • Iron: 6%

Please note that these nutrition estimates are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any additions or substitutions made. It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition labels on your ingredient packages for the most accurate information if you have specific dietary concerns. Enjoy your cereal bars!

Apricot Jam

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Boy, do I know how to pick ‘em. Yes, I’m being sarcastic and yes, I chose another batch of less-than-stellar summer fruit that I neither wanted to eat plain nor throw out. I’d been quite impressed by the fresh apricots that I bought at Trader Joe’s about a month ago, so I expected this bunch to be just as sweet and juicy. Not quite. In fact, these stone fruit were borderline sour which leads me to believe they were picked prematurely, before they had the chance to properly ripen.

Rather than pout and complain, I remedied the rather unfortunate situation by transforming the lackluster apricots into a deliciously simple jam. No need for either pectin or a gluttonous amount of sugar, this jam turned out perfectly thick and sweet. Given apricots’ natural affinity for a variety of foods, I bet this jam would be great as a glaze for grilled chicken, layered with plump blueberries and granola in a yogurt parfait, or spread with goat cheese on a piece of toast.

Apricot Jam

Apricot Jam

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pitted & chopped fresh apricots (about 5 apricots), preferably organic
  • 1-2 Tbsp evaporated cane juice or granulated sugar, depending on sweetness of the apricots
  • 1 Tbsp water

Directions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small non-stick saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve sugar.
  3. Maintain boil for 10-15 minutes, or until apricots begin to break down and form a thick jam, stirring often to keep jam from sticking to pan.

Strawberry Sauce

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Happy second day of summer!

Along with 2 1/2 months off from work, I have been eagerly anticipating the return of farmer’s markets. This time of year, various locations throughout Boston showcase vibrant, fresh, and aromatic produce ripe for the picking. Last Friday I walked to Copley Square with visions of lush fruit, sweet corn, and perfectly ripe tomatoes growing more vivid with each step. Along with other farm-fresh goodies, I arrived home with a carton of ruby-hued strawberries, picked just that morning.  I wasted no time gently rinsing the still-warm berries in preparation for that first blissful bite.

Oh boy, was I disappointed. The deceivingly gorgeous strawberries were watery and seriously lacking in the flavor department. Not to be deterred from enjoying these rather expensive berries, I brainstormed an easy way to “dress them up”. I initially thought of making strawberry jam, but a) didn’t have pectin on hand and b) didn’t want to add a ton of sugar to the lackluster berries. A simple strawberry sauce lightly kissed with agave nectar came to mind, and it came together in little time with minimal effort.

Strawberry Sauce

Use this luscious sauce as a…

  • topping for waffles, pancakes, or french toast
  • mix-in for plain yogurt (think homemade “fruit on the bottom” yogurt):
  • layer in a fruit/yogurt/granola parfait
  • topping for vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt
  • dipping sauce for a peanut butter & banana sandwich/panini
  • layer in a whipped cottage cheese & graham cracker crumb “strawberry cheesecake” parfait
  • treat straight from the container!
Strawberry Sauce

Strawberry Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb freshly picked strawberries, preferably organic (even better if local!), washed, hulled & sliced in half
  • 1-2 Tbsp agave nectar, (I used Madhava Pure Organic Vanilla Agave Nectar), or more or less depending on sweetness of the berries

Directions:

  1. Combine prepared strawberries and agave nectar in a medium saucepan over high heat.
  2. When the agave begins to bubble, decrease heat to low and simmer until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly – about 40 minutes – stirring often.
  3. Allow to cool before coarsely mashing with a spoon.
  4. Store in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.

Summer Fruit Crisp

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Unlike those strawberries and these apricots, the blueberries and nectarines used for this Summer Fruit Crisp were near perfect in their pure, unadulterated state. I typically have no problem tearing through a pint of berries or a bagful of stone fruit before they surpass their state of prime ripeness, but in this case I needed to put to quick use the dregs of a two pound carton of blueberries and a couple of soft nectarines.

You see, as we near the end of the season for these and other summer fruits, I have been buying more than I can eat. In one trip to Trader Joe’s I snagged the previously mentioned two pounds of blueberries in addition to two pounds of sweet red cherries, 1 lb of strawberries, a small container of raspberries, and four nectarines… not to mention my staple bunch of bananas. <Side note: for anyone who claims that organic produce is not affordable, go to the nearest Trader Joe’s. ASAP.>

Now, I could theoretically consume all of that fruit in one week, but I wouldn’t be eating much protein, whole grains, vegetables, or dairy to supplement… and my food philosophy is all about balance.

Summer Fruit Crisp

My solution to the overcrowded refrigerator produce drawers was to bake these individual crisps, one of which I ate for dessert later that evening, and the rest of which I wrapped up and stored in the freezer for future enjoyment.  You might do a double take when you see that the last listed ingredient is – gasp! – butter. It’s no secret that I rarely cook or bake with this ingredient, but a crisp just isn’t a crisp without a bit of butter mixed into the topping. This is inarguably a lighter version of a classic fruit crisp, but it is sweet and buttery enough to satisfy my craving for an indulgent dessert.

Summer Fruit Crisp

Summer Fruit Crisp

yields 5 servings

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh & ripe summer fruit, pitted and chopped if including stone fruit (I used 2 cups organic blueberries & 2 cups chopped organic nectarines)
  • 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp Sucanat or brown sugar, divided
  • 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp whole wheat pastry flour, divided
  • 1/4 cup old fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp chilled unsalted butter, cubed

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Coat 5 individual ramekins with canola oil cooking spray.
  3. In a medium bowl, toss fruit with 1 Tbsp Sucanat and 1 Tbsp flour. Spoon mixture into prepared ramekins.
  4. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the remaining 1/4 cup Sucanat, 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup rolled oats, and cinnamon. Pulse a few times until mixed. Add cubed butter into dry ingredients and pulse until crumbly. Sprinkle crisp mixture evenly over fruit-filled ramekins.
  5. Bake for 30 minutes, or until fruit filling is bubbly and crisp topping is golden.

Enjoy Your Summer Fruit Crisp!