By Christine Galeone

Summer mornings are something many of us enjoy. They’re a little slower-paced and brighter.  And a leisurely breakfast or morning snack is an added benefit.

But a leisurely breakfast consisting of donuts, pancakes or store-bought muffins isn’t always the best compliment to these summer mornings. Instead, why not try a healthier breakfast that features blueberries, a summertime favorite for many? These blueberry banana protein treats could be exactly what you need. 

Although they look like muffins, these treats are much healthier. They don’t have any added sugar or flour, and they’re packed with protein. They also contain heart-healthy ingredients, including blueberries, bananas and walnuts. Cinnamon also has antioxidant properties. 

Blueberries are considered to be a superfood for many reasons. They are certified by the American Heart Association to be a heart-healthy food. Loaded with antioxidants, they are believed to be beneficial in fighting cancer and in improving brain health. Additionally, the anthocyanins – which give the fruit its deep color – may have antidiabetic effects. 

Blueberry Banana Protein Treats

Ingredients:

1 Cup of Blueberries 

1 Cup of Chopped Walnuts 

1 tsp. of Cinnamon

½ tsp. of Ground Cardamom 

2 mashed ripe bananas

2 eggs

6 tablespoons of smooth peanut butter 

Directions:

Rinse the blueberries.

Mix together all the dry ingredients.

Mix together all the wet ingredients.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.

Pour the batter evenly into 8 muffin cups (glass cups or a muffin tin) after placing muffin/cupcake liners into the cups or tins

Press the blueberries into the batter.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 21 minutes. 

  

Although these treats are definitely better fresh, as refrigerating them with the paper causes them to stick to the paper quite a bit, they’re a healthier choice than many leisurely morning snacks or breakfasts. And they’re a great compliment to a summer morning! Happy (healthier) baking!