Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites Tasty and Healthy Snack
Are you craving a quick breakfast or snack that’s both tasty and healthy? Look no further! Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites are perfect for busy mornings or a nutritious pick-me-up. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bites are easy to make and satisfying. In this post, I’ll guide you through the process and share tips for delicious variations. Let’s dive into the goodness of these nutritious snacks!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
These ingredients come together to create tasty Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites. Each item plays a vital role in flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 150 calories. These bites provide fiber from oats, healthy fats from almond butter, and antioxidants from cherries. You get energy and nutrients in every bite.
Possible Substitutions
If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. For dried cherries, you can use raisins or dried cranberries. If you want a different sweetener, try agave syrup or coconut sugar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Mixing the base ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of almond butter, and 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup. Then, pour in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix these ingredients well until they form a dough-like texture. This step is fun, and the smell is amazing!
Adding cherries and almonds
Next, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped dried cherries and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds. Make sure they are evenly mixed throughout the base. This adds a sweet and nutty flavor to your bites.
Forming the Bites
Refrigeration before rolling
Now, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture makes it easier to handle. It also helps the flavors blend nicely.
Shaping the bites into balls
Once chilled, take the mixture out. Use your hands to scoop small spoonfuls and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in size. This step is perfect for getting your hands a bit messy, but it’s totally worth it!
Setting and Serving
Final refrigeration tips
After shaping, line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place each cherry almond bite on the tray. Once all bites are on, return them to the fridge for another 15-20 minutes. This helps them set and hold their shape.
Serving suggestions
You can serve these bites chilled or at room temperature. They make a great breakfast or snack option. Enjoy them with your favorite drink or share them with friends!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To make Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites, the right consistency is key. You want a dough-like texture that holds together. If it is too dry, add a little more almond butter or honey. If it is too wet, add more oats. Finding that perfect balance makes all the difference.
Handling the mixture can be tricky since it may be sticky. Refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling. This chill time helps firm it up. You can also wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking while you shape the bites.
Variations to Try
You can easily customize these bites. Try adding protein powder to boost nutrition. A scoop or two can enhance the flavor without changing the texture much.
Feel free to mix in different fruits or nuts. Swap dried cherries for raisins or cranberries. You could also use walnuts or pecans instead of sliced almonds. This adds new tastes and textures.
Health Benefits
Cherries have many nutritional benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Eating cherries can help reduce inflammation and improve sleep.
Almond butter also offers great advantages. It is a good source of healthy fats and protein. Almonds can help lower cholesterol and support heart health. Together, these ingredients make a tasty and healthy snack.
Variations
Flavor Combinations
You can easily switch up the flavor of Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites. Here are two tasty options:
– Chocolate Cherry Almond Bites: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the base mix. This gives a rich, chocolatey taste that pairs well with cherries. You can also fold in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
– Coconut Cherry Almond Bites: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut. This adds a chewy texture and tropical flavor. You can top each bite with a sprinkle of coconut for a fun look.
Dietary Adjustments
Need to make some changes for your diet? Here are some easy swaps:
– Vegan or gluten-free versions: Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it vegan. For gluten-free bites, check that your oats are certified gluten-free.
– Low-sugar alternatives: If you want less sugar, reduce the honey or maple syrup by half. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
Seasonal Ingredients
Using seasonal ingredients can enhance your bites:
– Using fresh cherries in season: When cherries are in season, you can substitute dried cherries with fresh ones. Chop them up and fold them into the mix for a juicy burst.
– Incorporating seasonal spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice during fall. This gives your bites a warm, cozy flavor that is perfect for cooler weather.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers or plastic food storage boxes work great. Store them in the fridge to maintain their taste and texture. This snack stays best when kept cold.
Shelf Life
These bites last about one week in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage, like a change in smell or appearance. If they look dry or hard, it’s best to toss them. Fresh bites should be chewy and aromatic.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bites in the fridge overnight. You can also let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Enjoy your tasty snack straight from the fridge or at room temp!
FAQs
How long do you need to refrigerate the mixture?
You should refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes. This step is key. It makes the mixture firm. A firmer mixture helps you shape it into bites easily.
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can make these bites ahead of time. They store well in the fridge. Prepare a batch on Sunday. Grab them for a quick snack during the week. This saves time and keeps you on track with healthy eating.
What are the best ways to enjoy Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites?
You can enjoy them in many ways. Try pairing them with yogurt for breakfast. They also make a great snack with fruit. You can even serve them with a glass of almond milk. The flavors blend well together.
Can I substitute other nuts?
Yes, you can easily substitute other nuts. If you have nut allergies, use seeds instead. Pumpkin or sunflower seeds work great. You can also use cashews or walnuts if you prefer. Just chop them up and mix them in.
In this article, we explored how to make Cherry Almond Breakfast Bites. You learned about the key ingredients, the step-by-step process, and helpful tips for success. We also covered storage and variations to keep things fresh and exciting.
These bites are healthy, tasty, and simple to prepare. With a few swaps, you can cater to dietary needs too. Enjoy your creations and share them with others. They’ll love these nutritious snacks!
![- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh broccoli florets are key to this soup. They bring a bright color and a nice crunch. Chopped onion adds a sweet base flavor. Minced garlic gives a touch of warmth and depth. Together, these ingredients form a great start for our cozy soup. - 4 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup heavy cream Vegetable broth gives our soup a rich, savory taste. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is the star. It melts beautifully, creating that creamy texture we love. Heavy cream adds smoothness and richness. These dairy ingredients make the soup feel indulgent and satisfying. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of spice) - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) Olive oil is perfect for sautéing the onion and garlic. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the soup. Paprika gives a slight kick that pairs well with cheddar. If you like a thicker soup, cornstarch is your friend. Just mix it with a little water before adding it in. For the full recipe, check out Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss! 1. Sautéing the onion and garlic Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step builds a great base flavor. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic will become fragrant, adding depth to your soup. 2. Cooking the broccoli and broth mixture Add the fresh broccoli florets and the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender during this time. This step lets the flavors meld together beautifully. 1. Blending the soup to the desired consistency If you like a smooth soup, grab an immersion blender. Blend the soup until it reaches your preferred texture. If you prefer chunks, blend it less or leave it as is. This step lets you customize the soup to your liking. 2. Stirring in cream, cheese, and seasonings Now, stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Keep cooking on low heat until the cheese melts completely. This step creates that creamy goodness we all crave in broccoli cheddar soup. 1. Thickening the soup (if desired) If you want a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water first. Then, stir this mixture into the soup. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step gives your soup that perfect, hearty texture. 2. Tasting and adjusting flavors Finally, taste your soup. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed. This step ensures your soup is just right for your palate. Enjoy your cozy bowl of broccoli cheddar bliss! For the complete method, check out the Full Recipe. - Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh broccoli florets. They give the best flavor and color. Look for bright green florets with no yellow spots. Fresh onions and garlic also boost taste. - Blending Methods: Use an immersion blender for easy blending. You can blend until smooth or leave some chunks. If you don't have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. - Additional Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for warmth. A sprinkle of paprika adds color and flavor. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. - Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a crusty bread or a side salad. These pair well and add comfort. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works great. - Too-Thin Soup: If your soup is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water. Stir this into the soup and cook for a few minutes until thickened. - Seasoning Balance: If the soup tastes bland, add more salt and pepper. Taste as you go, and adjust to your preference. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors too. {{image_2}} You can make this soup lighter by using low-fat dairy options. Swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or a plant-based milk. This change still keeps the soup creamy. You can also add more vegetables. Carrots and spinach fit well in this soup. They boost nutrition and add color. Mixing in different cheese varieties can change the taste. Try gouda or pepper jack for a twist. You can also add herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor. Crispy bacon gives a rich taste and crunch. It adds depth to the creamy soup. If you need a gluten-free version, use cornstarch as a thickener. Make sure your vegetable broth is gluten-free too. For vegan options, swap cheese and cream for plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can still enjoy this soup without animal products. Feel free to explore these variations to make this easy broccoli cheddar soup your own. For a full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Store your broccoli cheddar soup in a tight container. Let it cool first. The best practice is to use glass or BPA-free plastic. This soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. When you want a bowl, just take it out and reheat. To freeze soup, let it cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. This helps with expansion. Use containers made for freezing to avoid cracks. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. You have two great options to reheat your soup. You can use the stovetop or microwave. On the stovetop, heat it gently over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If you use the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating. When reheating, you might notice the soup has thickened. To restore creaminess, add a splash of cream or broth. This keeps your soup smooth and delicious! Enjoy your cozy bowl of soup anytime. Broccoli cheddar soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it down before putting it in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy those cheesy flavors for a few days. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It’s great for meal prep! I often make a big batch and store it. Just let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to eat. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend more. You can serve this soup with many sides. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. A simple salad adds freshness and crunch. You could also enjoy it with a grilled cheese sandwich for extra comfort. These pairings make your meal even more delightful! Yes, this broccoli cheddar soup can be gluten-free. Just use gluten-free vegetable broth and cornstarch. Always check labels to ensure the ingredients are safe. This way, everyone can enjoy this creamy delight without worry. This blog post covered everything you need to make delicious broccoli cheddar soup. We explored key ingredients like fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and heavy cream. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, blending, and adjusting flavors. We also shared tips for enhancing your soup, plus healthy variations to try. Lastly, I provided storage and reheating advice. Enjoy making your soup, knowing it’s simple and adaptable. Dive in, savor every bite, and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/80916b53-9b02-4ceb-883a-5c917337c047-768x768.webp)
