It’s finally Summer! The beautiful bright sun shines well past 8, long walks at the lake reveal all sorts of beautiful new flowers and plants, and fresh berries are everywhere from farm stands to your favorite market.

These treats capture a little of that summery cheer, sweet and a little savory, with a nice crunch from the nuts. However, if you prefer to go nut free, you can leave them out of the mixture and they still taste great! While I used blueberries here, your favorite berry (or mixture of berries) is also delicious.

Enjoy!

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Blueberry PB & J Bites
Copyright 2016 Lauren Bradford (aka The Food Puzzler)

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Yield: 24-2 ounce bites (as pictured)*
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Ingredients:

1 pint fresh blueberries, rinsed and stems removed
1-12 ounce container of plain raisins
3/4 cup unsweetened 5-grain cereal (I use a brand by Old Wessex, with Oats, Triticale, Flax, Rye and Barley)
1/2 cup peanuts (optional)
4 tbsp chia seeds

Steps:

1. Place the first 4 ingredients in your food processor (or first 3 if omitting nuts) and pulse until the mixture is well blended.

2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chia seeds. Let rest 10 minutes.

3. Using a tablespoon, take 2 scoops and form them into a patty.

*If you prefer truffle-shaped, use 2 teaspoon-size scoops (you’ll have more than twice the yield stated above). If you prefer bar-size, use 4 tablespoon-size scoops (you’ll have half the yield stated stated above).

4. Store in an airtight container in either the refrigerator for one week or freezer for three months.