Cornflakes are a popular breakfast cereal that many children love. However, while they may be a quick and convenient breakfast option, they are often high in sugar and lacking in nutritional value. If you’re looking to make cornflakes a healthier and more delicious option for your kids, here are three ways to do so.
Add Fresh Fruit
One of the simplest ways to make cornflakes healthier and more delicious is by adding fresh fruit. Not only does this add natural sweetness to the cereal, but it also adds important nutrients and fiber. Some great fruit options to add to cornflakes include:
- Bananas: Sliced bananas are a great addition to cornflakes. They add natural sweetness and are a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health and muscle function.
- Berries: Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are packed with antioxidants and are a good source of fiber. They also add a burst of flavor to cornflakes.
- Apples: Chopped or grated apples are a great addition to cornflakes. They add natural sweetness and are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
- To add fresh fruit to cornflakes, simply chop or slice the fruit and sprinkle it over the cereal. Alternatively, you can mix the fruit with the cornflakes and a splash of milk in a bowl.
Make Your Own Granola
Another way to make cornflakes healthier and more delicious is by making your own granola. Store-bought granola is often high in sugar and fat, but making your own allows you to control the ingredients and the amount of sugar added.
To make your own granola, start with a base of cornflakes and add a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Some great options include:
- Almonds: Almonds are a good source of healthy fats and protein. They add a crunchy texture to granola and are naturally sweet.
- Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which is important for bone health and muscle function. They add a nutty flavor and crunch to granola.
- Dried cranberries: Dried cranberries are a good source of antioxidants and add a tart and sweet flavor to granola.
To make granola, mix the ingredients together in a bowl and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Let cool and store in an airtight container.
Add Nut Butter
Adding nut butter to cornflakes is another way to make them healthier and more delicious. Nut butter is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, and adds a rich and creamy flavor to cornflakes.
Some great nut butter options to add to cornflakes include:
- Peanut butter: Peanut butter is a classic choice for adding to cereal. It’s rich and creamy and pairs well with the natural sweetness of cornflakes.
- Almond butter: Almond butter is a good source of healthy fats and protein. It has a nutty flavor that pairs well with the crunch of cornflakes.
- Cashew butter: Cashew butter is a good source of magnesium and has a creamy and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with cornflakes.
To add nut butter to cornflakes, simply spread a tablespoon or two of nut butter over the cereal and mix well. You can also add a splash of milk to create a creamy texture.
Making cornflakes healthier and more delicious for your kids is easy and fun. By adding fresh fruit, making your own granola, or adding nut butter, you can transform this simple breakfast cereal into a nutritious and tasty meal that your kids will love. Additionally, these options provide a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep your children full and energized throughout the morning. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when making cornflakes for your kids:
- Choose a low-sugar option: When purchasing cornflakes, look for brands that have little to no added sugar. Alternatively, you can choose unsweetened cornflakes and add your own natural sweeteners, such as fresh fruit or honey.
- Use unsweetened milk: To avoid adding extra sugar to your child’s breakfast, opt for unsweetened milk, such as almond or soy milk. These options are also great for children who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.
- Mix it up: Encourage your children to try different combinations of toppings and flavors. You can add different fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices to keep things interesting and provide a variety of nutrients.
- Involve your children: Making breakfast can be a fun activity to do with your kids. Encourage them to help you with measuring and mixing ingredients, and let them choose their own toppings and flavors.
By following these tips and getting creative in the kitchen, you can turn a simple bowl of cornflakes into a nutritious and delicious breakfast that your children will enjoy.
