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!
![- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green) - 1 small onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) I love this dish because it is easy to make and so tasty! Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor. The chicken adds protein and heartiness. The rice absorbs all the delicious broth, making it comforting. Bell peppers and onions give a nice crunch and sweetness. Garlic adds depth, while peas bring a pop of color and texture. Don't forget about the cheese! It melts on top and makes the dish creamy and rich. You can even mix in some spices like smoked paprika, dried thyme, and oregano to add warmth and complexity. You can find the full recipe for this Chicken and Rice Skillet Casserole at the end of the article. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. - Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small pieces. - Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and oregano. - Sauté the chicken in the hot oil until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. - Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. - In the same skillet, add 1 small chopped onion and 1 cup of diced bell peppers. - Cook the veggies until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. - Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. - Mix in 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice with the cooked vegetables. - Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. - Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. - Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to mix well. - Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. - Cook for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and absorbs most of the liquid. - In the last 5 minutes, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. - Cover again to let the cheese melt before serving. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To ensure the rice cooks evenly, rinse it well before use. Rinsing removes excess starch, leading to fluffier rice. Use a medium heat when cooking. This helps the rice absorb the broth without burning. Adjusting seasonings can make a big difference. Taste the broth after adding chicken. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne. For side dishes, a fresh green salad pairs great. You can also serve crusty bread for dipping. To garnish, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Consider adding more cheese on top for a cheesy finish. You can also serve it with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream. Use medium heat to start cooking your casserole. After adding the broth, reduce the heat to low. This slow cooking helps the rice fluff up nicely. If you have an electric stove, cook for about 20 minutes. For gas stoves, keep an eye on the time, as they can cook faster. Adjust your cooking time based on the heat you use and your stove type. {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Turkey works great for a leaner option. Tofu is a wonderful choice for a plant-based meal. Both taste good and cook well in this dish. You can also try different rice types. For gluten-free options, use brown rice or cauliflower rice. These will change the texture but still taste amazing. Want to spice up your casserole? Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Dried herbs such as rosemary or sage also work well. If you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes. You can even use jalapeños for a bigger kick. Experiment with spices to find your perfect blend. You can easily adapt this dish for the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F. After cooking the chicken and veggies, transfer everything to a baking dish. Pour in the broth and cover with foil. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is soft. Another way is to use a slow cooker. Just layer all the ingredients in the cooker. Set on low for 4-6 hours and let it do the work. Enjoy a hands-off cooking day! To keep your Chicken and Rice Skillet Casserole fresh, follow these tips: - Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. - Freezing: If you want to save it longer, freeze individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you have two great options: - Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's hot all the way through. - Microwave: If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. To keep the texture and flavor, the oven is the best choice. It helps the dish stay creamy and delicious. Enjoy your reheated Chicken and Rice Skillet Casserole just like it was fresh! For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Just cook it fully and cool it down. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, reheat it on low heat or in the oven. This keeps the flavors fresh and the dish ready to serve. If you need a substitute for chicken broth, try vegetable broth or water. You can also use bouillon cubes mixed with water. These options add flavor and keep your dish tasty and moist. Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it into single servings. Use small containers for easy grab-and-go meals. It warms up well in the microwave or oven, making it a great choice for busy days. This casserole can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. You can serve this casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. These sides balance the meal and add freshness. You might also enjoy it with steamed veggies or a light soup for a complete dinner. For the [Full Recipe], check out the main article. This chicken and rice skillet casserole is simple to make and delicious. You mix chicken, rice, and veggies, then let it all simmer together. Add cheese on top for a tasty finish. Remember, you can change ingredients or cooking methods to fit your needs. Store leftovers safely for future meals. Overall, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy creating your own version, and serve it with your favorite sides.](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/c524a3fd-62d5-4d38-9ae2-7923776d4e2f-768x768.webp)
![To make this easy chicken tortilla soup, gather these simple items: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn (frozen or canned) - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Tortilla strips (for garnish) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Sliced avocado (for serving) - Lime wedges (for serving) Choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Here are my tips: - Chicken: Look for plump and juicy chicken. Cooked rotisserie chicken works well too. - Onion: Select firm onions with dry skin. Avoid any soft spots or sprouting. - Garlic: Pick garlic bulbs that feel heavy and firm. The cloves should be tight. - Corn: If using fresh corn, choose bright yellow ears with no brown patches. - Tomatoes: For canned tomatoes, check the can for dents or rust. Always opt for quality brands. If you lack an ingredient, here are some easy swaps: - Chicken: Use turkey or even canned chicken if needed. - Black beans: Swap with pinto beans or kidney beans. - Corn: Try using bell peppers or zucchini for a different texture. - Chicken broth: Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a lighter soup. - Spices: If you don’t have cumin, use paprika or a taco seasoning mix. This soup is flexible, so feel free to adjust based on what you have at home. For the full recipe, check out the link. Making Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is simple. You start by cooking the onion and garlic. Then, you add the other ingredients and let them simmer. This lets all the flavors mix well. Finally, you serve it hot with tasty toppings. 1. Heat olive oil (5 minutes): In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and clear. This takes about 5 minutes. 2. Add garlic (1 minute): Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute until your kitchen smells great. 3. Combine ingredients (5 minutes): Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of black beans, and 1 cup of corn. Mix well. 4. Season the soup (20 minutes): Bring the mix to a simmer. Add 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. 5. Prepare tortilla strips (12 minutes): While the soup simmers, cut tortillas into thin strips. Bake them at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until they are crispy. 6. Taste and adjust (3 minutes): After 20 minutes, taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. 7. Serve (5 minutes): Serve the soup hot. Top with crispy tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices. Don’t forget a lime wedge for extra flavor! - Sautéing: Sautéing the onion and garlic first brings out their flavors. This step is key for a rich taste. - Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer for enough time. This helps the flavors blend perfectly. - Baking tortilla strips: Baking instead of frying gives you a crunchy topping without added oil. This makes your soup lighter and healthier. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To make your chicken tortilla soup pop, focus on layers of flavor. Start with fresh herbs like cilantro and lime. These add brightness. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. If you like heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Finally, finish each bowl with crispy tortilla strips. They add crunch and texture. One common mistake is overcooking the soup. If you simmer too long, the chicken can become dry. Another mistake is skipping the seasoning. Make sure to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. Lastly, don’t forget the toppings! They make the soup fun and flavorful. Missing them can dull the dish. Use a large pot or Dutch oven for even cooking. A wooden spoon is great for stirring. Make sure you have a sharp knife for chopping. You’ll also need a cutting board and measuring spoons. If you want crispy tortilla strips, a baking sheet is a must. With these tools, you'll make the whole process easier and more enjoyable. For more details on the recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} When making chicken tortilla soup, you can mix things up. Here are some fun options. To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Use more beans instead. Black beans work great. Chickpeas add a nice twist too. You can add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps all the flavors without meat. If you love spicy food, add jalapeños or serrano peppers. Chop them finely and cook with the onion. You can also add a dash of hot sauce. For more heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or chipotle powder. This gives the soup a smoky taste. Just remember to taste as you go! For a creamy twist, stir in some cream or sour cream. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version. Add it in right before serving. This makes the soup rich and smooth. You can also blend some soup to make it thicker. This way, you still have some chunky bits. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Chicken Tortilla Soup! Storing your chicken tortilla soup is easy. First, let it cool down. Then, put the soup in an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This helps the soup expand when frozen. Store it in the fridge if you plan to eat it in a few days. It can last about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is best. When you are ready to enjoy your soup, reheating is simple. Pour the soup into a pot. Heat it on medium until it bubbles. Stir it often to avoid sticking. You can also use a microwave. Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the soup from getting too hot in some spots. Always check the temperature before serving. To freeze your soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, just like before. You can also use freezer bags. Lay them flat in the freezer to save space. This way, they stack nicely. When you want to eat it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. You can also use the microwave to defrost it quickly. Make sure to reheat it well before serving. For the best taste, use frozen soup within 2 to 3 months. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. To make chicken tortilla soup gluten-free, skip the tortilla strips or use gluten-free tortillas. You can find corn tortillas that are safe for gluten-free diets. Check labels to be sure. Use gluten-free chicken broth too. This keeps your soup tasty and safe to eat. Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred it and add it to the pot when the soup simmers. This makes weeknight cooking easy and quick. Your soup will still taste fresh and delicious! Chicken tortilla soup has many health benefits. It is high in protein from the chicken. The beans and corn add fiber, which is good for digestion. Plus, the tomatoes give vitamins that help your body. This soup is also low in fat, making it a smart choice for dinner. Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Start by adding all the ingredients, except the tortilla strips, to the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through. This method is great for busy days! For the full recipe, check the link above. This blog post covered everything you need for delicious chicken tortilla soup. We discussed the best ingredients, tips for selection, and substitutes. I shared step-by-step instructions and key techniques for cooking. You learned how to enhance flavors and avoid common mistakes. We explored variations for different tastes and shared storage tips. Embrace your cooking journey and enjoy the soup! With these insights, you're ready to impress everyone.](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4c837e08-7a40-4cb5-8eb2-23b66dcc18ae-768x768.webp)
