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Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa

Are you looking for the perfect teacher gift? I’ve got you covered! My daughter created Rebecca’s light and dark hot cocoa to give as gifts. Everyone that tries it is blown away by the flavor. You will be too!

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

I remember the first year my oldest was in Kindermusik. She wasn’t even two yet.

We were finally at the point of venturing out of the house without having to worry about nursing schedules. And I wanted the chance to talk to another human being with a little more to talk about than dolls and dancing.

Class started in the fall and ended just before Christmas. That was fun, I thought. Then the last day rolled around…and everyone started handing gifts to the teacher.

Learning how to give.

Wait a minute.

We’re supposed to give a Christmas gift to every teacher/leader our children have? I guess I missed that part in the parenting handbook.

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

Now with three kids I know that it is totally a personal choice who you give to and how much. Some years we go shopping and let the kids pick out gifts for teachers. But that gets to be just one more thing to do.

So two years ago I simplified our gift giving. We give gifts to the teachers we see on a regular basis (maybe I’m Scrooge, but I don’t give something to every bus driver and mail carrier. You have to draw the line somewhere).

And I don’t shop for gifts either. We have two gifts we make every year. One is homemade granola. This year teachers get a special treat with kettle corn granola!

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

The other is my daughter’s “famous” light and dark hot cocoa. She came up with the idea of a layered cocoa mix.

It’s that good.

It is always fun to see the reaction of the people that try it. They assume when a five year old gives them homemade hot cocoa it will be fine. Then they taste it.

Some have even said it’s the best hot cocoa they’ve ever tried.

I love how simple it is to make. And that it doesn’t contain any powdered milk, flavorings, thickeners, etc. Just a few simple ingredients create the most delicious hot cocoa you’ve ever had.

I also love that it is super allergen friendly. Even I can drink it! And if I can drink it anyone can (I haven’t met many people with as many food restrictions as I have). If you can’t have cocoa you can replace all of it with carob. It won’t be light and dark hot cocoa anymore, but it will still taste great.

I even have a couple secret ingredients – unrefined sea salt and grass-fed collagen! Just because you’re drinking hot chocolate doesn’t mean you need to leave the nutrition out.

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

Let the kids help.

This is a great project for kids of just about any age. My oldest (age seven) can make it on her own. My four year old can make it with a little help from me. Even with kids helping it only takes about five minutes to make.

Let the kids create a pretty label and teacher gifts are done! And I have yet to find a teacher that doesn’t like hot cocoa.

Make a big batch. Give some away as gifts. Keep some for the family and enjoy a mug while you open presents or after playing in the snow (if it will ever snow this year!)

I’ve even got a cute gift tag to attach to the jar for you! Just click the link below, print and cut.

Light And Dark Hot Cocoa Gift Tag

Are you looking for a simple, heart-felt gift this year?

Light and dark hot cocoa makes the perfect teacher gift or special treat.

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa | Just Take A Bite

Light and Dark Hot Cocoa
Yields 2
A rich, homemade hot cocoa with light and dark layers.
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Ingredients
  1. 3 cups organic cane sugar
  2. 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  3. 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
  4. 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  5. 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  6. optional: 2 Tbsp. grass-fed collagen
Instructions
  1. In a medium size bowl combine 1 1/2 cups sugar, cocoa powder, 1/4 tsp. salt and 1 Tbsp. collagen.
  2. In another bowl combine 1 1/2 cups sugar, dark cocoa powder, 1/4 tsp. salt and 1 Tbsp. collagen.
  3. In two pint size jars layer 3 Tbsp. cocoa mixture, 3 Tbsp. dark cocoa mixture and a few chocolate chips (about 2 tsp.).
  4. Repeat four times, until the mixture is used.
To use
  1. Mix 1 - 2 Tbsp. of the cocoa mixture into 1 cup of hot water or milk.
Notes
  1. This is enough to fill two pint jars.
  2. Light and dark hot cocoa makes a great gift.
  3. I use Enjoy Life chocolate chips since they are allergen friendly.
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Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses Tonic

In need of a warm drink that not only tastes good but is packed with essential minerals? Molasses tonic is the perfect warm up and pick-me-up drink for cold weather.

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

I like warm drinks. Do you?

Even on the hottest summer days I still start the day with a warm drink. It has a calming effect on my mind and body. In fact I’m sipping on one right now while I write this post!

I’ve never been a coffee drinker. I usually go for tea.

But these days I pretty much drink one of two things. Either healing hot chocolate or molasses tonic. Both provide minerals in a great tasting, soothing beverage.

You may be wondering, what’s so great about molasses? Isn’t that just sugar?

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses is actually packed with vitamins and minerals.

It contains:

  • potassium
  • magnesium
  • calcium
  • iron
  • vitamin B6
  • niacin
  • pantothenic acid
  • choline
  • phosphorus
  • zinc
  • copper
  • selenium
  • chromium
  • cobalt
  • sodium

It has also been shown to be helpful with a variety of health issues from PMS, headaches and acne to bone health and constipation.

What’s not to love?

Well, maybe the flavor.

Molasses is an acquired taste.

At least for me. If you are not a fan just start with a small amount and work your way up to a full tablespoon.

You can even do half molasses and half maple syrup to start. Maple syrup has minerals too!

As you can see molasses is very nutritious. You could just take a big spoonful once or twice a day.

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

I like to combine it with some other nutrients in a hot drink to really give my body a boost.

So you can add any or all of the following to create a molasses tonic:

  • stinging nettle (allergy relief, reduce inflammation)
  • grass-fed collagen (easy-to-digest protein, gut healing)
  • unrefined sea salt (trace minerals, hydration/electrolyte balance)
  • cocoa powder (magnesium, iron, fiber, manganese, zinc, flavonoids)
  • carob powder (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium)
  • maple syrup (calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus sodium, potassium, zinc)
  • butter and/or coconut oil (healthy saturated fat, helps balance the protein and carbohydrates)

When you put all of these together molasses tonic can practically be a meal replacement! And if you have a super busy morning here and there it could be. I drink it after a meal. Though it is best to wait an hour after eating to let your food settle/start digesting first.

If you don’t have time or all of the ingredients to make the full molasses tonic you can simply add molasses and sea salt to hot water. You’ll still get a big nutritional boost and feel hydrated.

The next time you need a hot beverage skip the coffee. Instead whip up a power packed molasses tonic.

This is great for kids too. Add some whole milk or coconut milk to their molasses tonic for a creamy drink.

Do you consume molasses regularly? What is your favorite way to use it? 
Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses Tonic
Serves 1
A warm drink packed with vitamins and minerals
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Ingredients
  1. 1 1/2 - 2 cups boiling water
  2. 1/2 - 1 Tbsp. blackstrap molasses
  3. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
optional
  1. 1 tsp. nettle leaf
  2. 1 Tbsp. grass-fed collagen
  3. 1 tsp. organic cocoa powder
  4. 1/2 tsp. organic carob powder
  5. 2 tsp. grade B maple syrup
  6. 1 Tbsp. butter or coconut oil
  7. 2-4 Tbsp. whole milk or coconut milk
Instructions
  1. If using nettle leaf, use a tea strainer or cheesecloth to steep nettle leaves in 1/2 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove the leaves.
  2. Add the remaining boiling water and ingredients.
  3. Stir to combine.
  4. Allow to cool enough to drink or add ice cubes or milk.
Notes
  1. This can be served warm or cold (iced molasses tonic).
  2. This can be placed in a water bottle and packed for school lunch.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

Homemade Grape Juice: From The Vine to Your Cup

When it comes to juice fresh is always best. Learn how to make  your own homemade grape juice starting with picking grapes and ending with sweet juice.

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

 

Confession. I love grape juice. Love it.

I don’t drink it very often these days because I know most juice is just empty calories with no nutrition. Otherwise I would.

Once in a while I buy pure organic concord grape juice for making jello or gummies. But I can’t afford to buy that just to drink plain.

Homemade Grape Juice | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Free grapes.

A few weeks ago my mom called to tell me my grandpa said I could have his grapes. My grandma passed away earlier this year and my grandpa is now in hospice. So the grapes on their farm are just sitting there.

He thought I might be able to put them to good use.

He knows me well.

Homemade Grape Juice | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

I made a trip to the farm with my two youngest, hoping to pick a bunch of grapes. Then I realized that picking grapes when everything is soaking wet and you have a toddler with grabby hands strapped to your chest is next to impossible.

At least I had a great helper! We did pick a few to get us started. But I had to send my husband and big kids back a few days later to finish the job.

My suggestions for picking grapes:

  1. Have two free hands.
  2. Use clippers.
  3. Be prepared to get messy.

Making juice.

Once we had the grapes at home I had to figure out what to do with them.

It turns out that making homemade grape juice is quite simple. You basically just wash, cook and strain. You may need to add sweetener if you want to drink the juice plain. It just depends how tart the grapes are.

Homemade Grape Juice | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

It also turns out that the “hardest” part is just separating the good grapes from the bad ones.

It was fun to make my own grape juice for the first time. As I did it I couldn’t help but smile and think of my grandparents standing in the kitchen on their farm making juice together every year for decades.

I felt honored to carry on the tradition, and I think of them every time I drink our homemade grape juice. They are some of the most amazing people I know. And their farm has always been one of my favorite places.

Now we have some grape juice in the freezer for later (that I will try really hard to share with my family). Plus I used some to make grape jelly! I’ll be sharing that recipe tomorrow.

Have you ever tried making homemade grape juice? If you have access to fresh, concord grapes start picking! There is nothing quite like it.

Homemade Grape Juice | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

 

 

Homemade Grape Juice: From the Vine to Your Cup
Fresh, homemade grape juice from concord grapes.
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Ingredients
  1. Freshly picked concord grapes
  2. Organic cane sugar or honey
Tools
  1. Large stockpot
  2. Large fine mesh strainer
  3. Cheesecloth
Instructions
  1. Wash the grapes. Get rid of any bad or unripe grapes.
  2. Place the grapes in a large stockpot.
  3. Mash the grapes with a potato masher to get the juices flowing.
  4. Turn the heat on to high. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer the grapes for 10 - 15 minutes, mashing periodically while they cook.
  6. Turn off the heat.
  7. Strain the grapes/juice through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth over a large bowl.
  8. Allow the grapes to strain for a few hours or over night.
  9. Discard the grapes/skin/seeds.
  10. Strain the juice a second time through clean cheesecloth.
  11. If using the juice for drinking add sugar if the grapes are too sour. Stir and let the sugar dissolve.
  12. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to a year.
Notes
  1. I used about 1/4 cup cane sugar per quart of juice for drinking.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Brain Booster Milkshake | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Brain Booster Milkshake

Get the school morning started right with a brain booster milkshake. Full of protein, vitamins and minerals it will keep your kids going all day.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

School mornings can be hard. Get breakfast on the table. Feed the baby. Brush everyone’s teeth. Find shoes and backpacks.

You do your best to prepare and have things go smoothly. But even with good planning it is tough to always give your kids the nourishment they need before heading out the door.

Especially if you have a child like mine that eats very slowly and ends up often only managing a few bites of breakfast.

To make sure she starts her day the right way I created my brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Are Milkshakes Healthy?

This milkshake is packed with some nutritional powerhouses.

  • raw milk – easy to digest protein, calcium and vitamins
  • raw pastured egg yolks – B vitamins that are critical for brain function and concentration
  • probiotics – for gut health and boosting the immune system
  • grass-fed collagen – easy to digest protein and important amino acids
  • maple syrup – carbohydrates for energy and trace minerals
  • unrefined sea salt – trace minerals

I usually serve the milkshake with something else like a homemade granola bar or even dinner leftovers! But even if she doesn’t take a single bite of her breakfast I know she’s going to be fueled for the morning as long as she drinks her brain booster milkshake.

This is a really good option for kids with oral SPD and chewing problems. A milkshake goes down pretty quickly. It is also easy on the digestive system. The nutrients are very easy to absorb and utilize.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

One of the key components is the raw, pastured egg yolk. Have you ever read about them? Though often deemed as unhealthy or bad for your heart the opposite is actually true. And eaten raw (as long as they are pastured) the nutrients are not damaged and are easy to absorb.

Egg yolks are amazing little packages of nutrients, specifically B vitamins that are essential for your child’s brain development and ability to focus. They contain other nutrients such as choline (necessary for methylation), selenium (great for the thyroid) and biotin (helps with blood sugar regulation – perfect for breakfast!).

Milkshake for Breakfast or Lunch

I sometimes put milkshakes in my daughter’s lunch too. She struggles to eat much lunch at school. There just isn’t enough time for her, and she’s busy talking. But she usually comes home with an empty cup!

This is also great for kids going through orthodontic work. The day after adjustments their mouth can be very sore and chewing can be a challenge. A milkshake is always in my daughter’s lunch the day after her expander gets adjusted. I tell her that even if she can’t eat anything she should be sure to drink her brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Healthy Chocolate Milkshake

The base milkshake recipe is vanilla. But you can create other flavors too. My kids love when I add a bit of cocoa powder or carob powder for a chocolate shake.

Add some strawberries from your freezer stash for a strawberry shake. Any berry or even cherries will work.

Sometimes we really get creative and add mint extract. It tastes like mint ice cream (my kids’ favorite!).

If you can’t have dairy, coconut milk is a great substitute! Any milk alternative will work.

Serve it in a fun cup with a straw or in a sealed cup to pack in a lunch box.

Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch or both you’ll know your child is getting essential nutrients with a brain booster milkshake. All they have to know is they get something delicious to drink!

Get your kids excited about breakfast. What flavor do you think they’ll like best?

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Brain Booster Milkshake
Serves 1
A delicious shake perfect for breakfast or lunch that will give your kids the nutrients they need to perform their best.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup raw milk or coconut milk
  2. 1 - 2 raw pastured egg yolks
  3. 1 Tbsp. grade B maple syrup
  4. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  5. 2 tsp. grass-fed collagen
  6. 1/2 capsule preferred probiotics
  7. 1/2 capsule preferred multi-vitamin
  8. optional: 2 tsp. carob powder or cocoa powder OR 1/4 cup berries or cherries
  9. optional: 1/2 tsp. organic vanilla OR 1/4 tsp. organic mint extract
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender or a cup with a lid.
  2. Blend or shake until well combined.
  3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Bedtime Beverage

Bedtime Beverage | Homemade Dutch Apple PieDo you have trouble falling asleep at night? Or maybe your kids have a hard time winding down at the end of the day? Mine sure do!

Except for one…the baby. How does she go to sleep? She nurses and falls fast asleep. Mother’s milk is warm and has the perfect balance of nutrients to help a little one nod off to sleep. It is comforting and nourishing.

So how does that translate to everyone else? Surprisingly ice cream (the kind made with real, whole ingredients) is about the closest thing we have to breast milk in terms of its nutrient profile.  It has a good balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat.

You could definitely indulge in a dish of ice cream to see if it helps you get sleepy. But I have a drink that might work better. It’s like warm ice cream!

Raw cream or whole milk is the ideal base for this drink. If you can’t have dairy you can use full fat coconut milk and add a little extra gelatin for the protein balance.Bedtime Beverage | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Egg yolks are added because they are packed with vitamins (especially B) and a little bit of protein. The cream or milk has lots of healthy fat. Gelatin gives more amino acids and protein. Plus the gelatin makes it all easier to digest. The sea salt helps you absorb everything and adds trace minerals. The syrup also helps digestion (sugar is easily absorbed) and gives balance to the drink by adding carbohydrates.

At bedtime you need your adrenals to settle down for the night. Having a balance of sugar, salt and fat will help your body accomplish that.   You can also add a small starchy snack along side the bedtime beverage to really balance out the components. A couple soaked graham crackers or even a slice of sourdough bread are perfect.

This bedtime beverage is like a nutritionally boosted version of the warm milk you grew up drinking at bedtime (yes, there was some truth behind that). It’s almost as comforting and calming as mother’s milk. It tastes great too!

This drink can also be very helpful during the first trimester of pregnancy. Even if you can’t get much else down this will give you a nutrient boost and may be soothing to an unsettled stomach.

There is no fancy equipment required for this drink. Just a small pan and a whisk.  It only takes a few minutes to make. Don’t forget to save your egg whites for baking. They store well in the refrigerator or freezer for a long time. I like to use them for making gluten free bread!

You won’t have to convince your kids to drink this before bed. Offer a soothing bedtime beverage that tastes like ice cream and I’m sure they will gladly oblige. Then watch them settle down and drift off to sleep.  Mother’s milk is wonderful for helping little ones get to sleep. Now everyone else can do the same.Bedtime Beverage | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Bedtime Beverage
Serves 1
A warm drink to help you sleep at night.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup heavy cream, coconut milk or whole milk
  2. 2 Tbsp. maple syrup (or honey)
  3. 1/4 - 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  4. 1 - 2 tsp. collagen or gelatin
  5. 1 - 2 egg yolks
  6. optional: 1 - 2 tsp. cocoa or carob powder
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a small saucepan.
  2. Whisk to combine.
  3. If using gelatin let the mixture set for 1 minute.
  4. Gently warm the mixture over low heat. Do not let it boil or you could curdle the milk or cook the egg yolks.
  5. Pour into a mug and enjoy before bed.
Notes
  1. This can be made with just the cream, syrup and salt.
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Homemade Quinoa Milk {Nursing Mother’s Drink}

Homemade quinoa milk is a delicious alternative to dairy that is also great for nursing mothers boost milk supply.

Quinoa Milk Nursing Mother's Drink | Homemade Dutch Apple PieHave you ever tried quinoa milk?  Despite the growing variety of alternative milks available, it is not something I’ve ever seen at the store (though I have seen one brand of it online).

As I mentioned in my oat milk post I’m not a huge fan of nut milks. Especially for young kids and nursing moms.

My first choice is always fresh, raw milk from cows or goats. Unfortunately a dairy intolerance is very common for small babies. Which  means mom needs an alternative.

Coconut milk is a great choice for cooking, baking and adding a splash to tea. But it’s not something most people will drink plain in large quantities. Plus it can also be hard on babies since it can be gassy and even cause reflux.

Enter quinoa milk! It has a very mild flavor – similar to rice milk. It is also very easy to make and very cost effective. One quarter cup of quinoa can make up to six cups of milk!

The best thing about quinoa milk is that it is great for boosting milk supply.   If you tolerate quinoa and are a nursing mother I encourage you to include quinoa in your diet. Even if you can have dairy this is a great alternative milk to have in your diet for variety and nutrition.

Unlike other alternative milks quinoa milk has quite a bit of protein.  You can add both calcium and vitamin D when you make it to boost nutrition even more.

Quinoa milk is not heavy like nut milks. It has a very neutral flavor. It works well for cooking and baking. Plus it is great for boosting milk supply!

Need some variety in your diet? Or are you just looking for an alternative to dairy? Give quinoa milk a try. Quinoa Milk Nursing Mother's Drink | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Homemade Quinoa Milk: Nursing Mother's Drink {fermented option}
A delicious alternative drink that helps boost milk supply.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/4 cup quinoa
  2. 2 tsp. lemon juice
  3. warm water
  4. 5 cups water
  5. 2 Tbsp. coconut sugar, cane sugar, honey or maple syrup OR 3 dates (optional)
  6. 1/2 tsp. sea salt (optional)
  7. Vitamin D drops (optional)
  8. calcium powder (optional)
  9. 2 Tbsp. whey (optional)
Instructions
  1. Place the quinoa and lemon juice in a bowl. Cover with warm water (quantity does not matter, as long as it's covered)
  2. Let soak for 24 hours.
  3. Drain and rinse the quinoa.
  4. Combine the quinoa and 5 cups water in a medium saucepan.
  5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours.
  6. If using dates as a sweetener add them to the pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  7. Pour the quinoa and water into a blender.
  8. Blend until smooth.
Non-fermented method
  1. Add sweetener (if desired/if not using dates) and sea salt. Blend.
  2. Pour into a serving container.
  3. Add vitamin D and calcium if desired.
  4. Refrigerate.
  5. Shake before serving.
Fermented Method
  1. Pour the blended mixture into a container.
  2. Add salt and whey.
  3. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 3 days.
  4. Add sweetener and vitamin D/calcium and refrigerate.
  5. Shake before serving.
Notes
  1. You can add 1 tsp. of pure vanilla to the pureed mixture for vanilla quinoa milk.
  2. If the milk is too thick for your taste it can be diluted with extra water or it can be strained.
  3. This should not be used for children under one year of age.
  4. This makes a great dairy alternative for both kids and adults.
  5. This recipe can easily be doubled.
  6. This recipe makes about 5 cups of milk. It can be increased by adding extra water.
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This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Looking for a unique dairy alternative that does not contain coconut or nuts? This homemade oat mlk is cheap, easy to make, and delicious.

Homemade Oat Milk {fermented option}

Looking for a unique dairy alternative that does not contain coconut or nuts? This homemade oat milk is cheap, easy to make, and delicious.

Looking for a unique dairy alternative that does not contain coconut or nuts? This homemade oat milk is cheap, easy to make, and delicious.

I am a huge fan of raw milk. I’d drink it by the glass full if I could right now.  But my little one would be in a lot of pain if I did.

Being dairy-free is a big adjustment. But it’s nothing new to us. We entered the world of no dairy and alternative milks years ago.

At that time my son was also allergic to nuts and rice. So that eliminates a lot of options.

Homemade Oat Milk Dairy Alternative

We tried different versions of coconut milk. That was a big no. I can’t blame him – coconut milk tastes nothing like dairy milk. Even I can’t drink that plain.

Finally I found oat milk – something he didn’t mind drinking. Something I could use in cooking and baking that would be safe for him.

But oat milk is definitely not cheap. We usually pay about $3.50 for each small box.

Recently I was reading through Nourishing Traditions and saw a recipe for rice milk with an option to use oats. I had to try it immediately!

Looking for a unique dairy alternative that does not contain coconut or nuts? This homemade oat milk is cheap, easy to make, and delicious.

How to Make Oat Milk

First I made a fermented version. I figured it would be the healthiest option if my son would drink it. But it didn’t go over very well.

So I modified it a bit and made an unfermented version. Success!

Let me tell you this is SO much cheaper than buying oat milk. A quarter cup of oats makes over four cups of milk!  Not only that I like that I can make sure the oats are properly prepared since oats are very high in phytic acid.

Nut-Free Milk Alternative

I may be in the minority, but I am not a big fan of nut milks.  I don’t think anyone needs to consume that kind of quantity of nuts on a regular basis. They do contain quite a bit of omega-6’s, which we get more than enough of.

So I’m happy to have a safe alternative to dairy that my kids enjoy and doesn’t cost a ton. It is also extremely easy to make (just cook oats and puree).

The other benefit of having alternative milks is to make sure you get variety in your diet. This is very important when dealing with allergies. Rotating milk sources can help prevent future allergies or sensitivities.

How to Use Oat Milk

Oat milk works very well for baking. I even use it in cream soups and stews. It has a very neutral flavor.

You can also drink it plain or use it on oatmeal or homemade cereal.

As I mentioned you can make it into a fermented drink to boost nutrition. If you are used to ferments you can give that a try. If you are making it for kids that might have a more sensitive palate try it without fermenting.

Are you dairy-free? Are you looking for a unique milk substitute? Try homemade oat milk. It’s a mildly sweet, satisfying drink.

Need more options?

Try homemade rice milk or homemade quinoa milk. 

Homemade Oat Milk {fermented option}
A simple beverage made from oats.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
  2. 1 cup warm water
  3. 4 cups water, divided
  4. 4 Tbsp. coconut sugar, honey or maple syrup (optional)
  5. 1/4 tsp. sea salt (optional)
  6. vitamin D drops (optional)
  7. 2 Tbsp. whey (optional)
Instructions
  1. Soak the oats in 1 cup warm water for 24 hours.
  2. Combine the soaked oats and 3 cups water in a medium saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil and simmer, covered, 2 hours.
  4. Pour the oats and water into a blender.
  5. Proceed with the non-fermented or fermented version from this point.
Non-fermented method
  1. Add the salt and sugar.
  2. Blend well.
  3. Pour into a jar and add another 1 cup water.
  4. Refrigerate.
  5. Add a few drops of Vitamin D (optional).
  6. Shake before pouring.
  7. Add extra water if milk is too thick for your taste.
Fermented method
  1. Blend the oats and water.
  2. Pour into a jar.
  3. Add the whey and 1/2 tsp. sea salt.
  4. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 3 days.
  5. Stir in sweetener and 1 cup extra water.
  6. Add vitamin D if desired.
  7. Store in the refrigerator.
  8. Shake well before serving.
Notes
  1. This recipe easily doubles to make a half gallon of oat milk.
  2. This milk should not be used for children under the age of one since they don't have the enzymes to digest grains.
  3. This makes about 5 cups of milk.
  4. You can add extra water to the milk to thin it out.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

“More Peas Please!” Green Smoothie

More Peas Please Green Smoothie | Homemade Dutch Apple PieThis month I had the challenge from Stonyfield to come up with a green smoothie. I’ve made plenty of smoothies with green stuff in them. But I wanted to try something new.

As I was pureeing peas for my six month old it dawned on me that peas are quite sweet. They would be the perfect green component to a smoothie!

It also just so happens that my oldest just got an expander…and could hardly chew while she adjusted to it. I was feeding her soft food like yogurt and applesauce.

But she wasn’t eating many vegetables. I could have pureed some for her, but she’s not a big fan of that. So I gave them to her in a smoothie!

This is my “More peas please!” green smoothie. It will have your kids begging for peas.  The peas give it a nice bright color (my daughter said it looks like a mint shake). Then I add some pear and honey for extra sweetness. This is perfect for spring and St. Patrick’s Day!More Peas Please Green Smoothie | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

If you need an extra boost of fruit flavor you can add a few strawberries, blueberries or cherries. It will change the color a bit, though.

As with all of my smoothies I like to use them to boost nutrition. That is especially true when I have a child not able to eat their normal diet.

I use full fat yogurt. I like the Stonyfield whole milk plain yogurt. Then I add egg yolk, gelatin and sea salt to the mix.

You can make the smoothie fresh or prepare it the night before. Then just grab it out of the fridge for an easy breakfast. You can also pour it into popsicle molds for a fun frozen treat (this really works well to give nutritious food to sick or picky kids).

My daughter can be very picky when it comes to smoothies. But she drank this whole thing without complaint.

Are you struggling to get your kids to eat something green? Give this smoothie a try. Your kids will be begging for more peas please!

If you don’t tolerate or are allergic to peas (like my son) you can use another mild green vegetable like green beans. If you want to use greens like spinach be sure to cook them first to eliminate oxalates.

More Peas Please Green Smoothie | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

"More Peas Please!" Green Smoothie
Serves 1
A sweet and fruity green smoothie with peas.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/4 cup frozen peas (thawed/rinsed under hot water)
  2. 1/2 cup full fat plain yogurt
  3. 3/4 - 1 medium pear
  4. 2 Tbsp. honey (or maple syrup)
  5. 1 egg yolk (optional)
  6. 1/8 tsp. sea salt
  7. 1 - 2 tsp. collagen (optional)
  8. 2 Tbsp. strawberries, blueberries, cherries or raspberries (optional - for extra flavor)
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until well combined and smooth.
  3. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator or in popsicle molds in the freezer.
Notes
  1. This can be made with coconut milk or coconut milk yogurt if you are dairy free.
  2. This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/


I am working with Stonyfield to blog about the yogurt. I have been compensated for my time commitment to use this product. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie Review

A Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie is a fun way to start the day. I’ve got the the scoop on this new product – the good and bad.Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie Review | Homemade Dutch Apple PieI recently joined the Stonyfield Clean Plate Club!  My first assignment as part of this great group is to sample the new Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie and tell you all about it. How fitting since I just finished my simple smoothie series!

If you’ve been around here long you know that my newest little one is very sensitive (if not allergic) to dairy. Which means I couldn’t try the OP Smoothies myself.

But my family sure has been enjoying them!

My daughter says they taste like milkshakes.  She really loved the chocolate.

My son can only have limited dairy, so I let him try a very small amount of the strawberry smoothie. In his three year-old description: “Yum! It tastes like strawberry.”  He was sad when I told him he couldn’t have any more.

My husband says they are “easy to drink and not too sweet.”  The not too sweet part is a big bonus for my family! Normally any kind of store bought yogurt tastes sickeningly sweet to us.Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie Review | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

My first choice when it comes to smoothies is always to make them myself.  Put raw milk, coconut milk and/or yogurt, strawberries and a bit of honey in a blender. In two minutes you’ve got a nutritious smoothie with no strange ingredients.

But there are seasons and events in your life when  you need easy…as in grab it out of the fridge easy. Like when I had morning sickness…these smoothies would have been handy for my family (and myself!!). OP smoothies would also be great for when you are on vacation.

There are a few things I love about the OP Smoothies:

  • No artificial flavors
  • No artificial colors
  • Real fruits and vegetables added (to the strawberry flavor)
  • Probiotics
  • Lots of vitamins and minerals
  • Organic ingredients

There are also some things that I don’t like as much:

  • Low fat milk instead of full fat/only 2g of fat in a whole smoothie
  • Erythritol – I had to look this up. It’s a sugar alcohol that is hard to digest. I wish they had stuck to all plain cane sugar.
  • Milk protein concentrate – Another ingredient that I’m not really sure what it is. I assume that is where the protein boost comes from.
  • Natural flavor – This seems to be in every organic product but it can have many sources. If it is so natural I wish companies would just say what it is! It’s important for those with allergies.
  • Carob bean gum – Any kind of gum can be hard on the digestive system.

    Photo Credit: Stonyfield Organic
    Photo Credit: Stonyfield Organic

The new Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie tastes great. It doesn’t have any artificial ingredients. Plus it is very convenient. I love that.

On the flip side, the smoothies contain a few questionable ingredients (things I wouldn’t normally let my kids have). Plus they are unbalanced in their protein/fat/starch ratio. If I were drinking one I’d definitely pair it with extra starch and fat, like a piece of sourdough bread with lots of butter and even some sea salt.

I personally don’t think we need large amounts of protein. So a smoothie that boasts protein isn’t a huge draw for me. But balanced with some other nutritious food it can be a great addition to your diet.

A Stonyfield Organic Protein Smoothie would be a nice treat once in a while for a lunch. It comes in vanilla, strawberry and chocolate to please any taste buds.

If you need a quick protein boost in your snack or a simple breakfast option when you can’t make something at home, try a Stonyfield OP Smoothie.

I am working with Stonyfield to blog about the OP Smoothies. I have been compensated for my time commitment to review this product. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Simple Smoothie Series: True Blue-Berry

Simple Smoothie Series: True Blue-Berry || Homemade Dutch Apple PieToday I’ve got a smoothie that is sure to please everyone.  Who doesn’t love blueberries?!

This true blue-berry smoothie gives a double shot of flavor with both whole blueberries and blueberry juice.

A blueberry smoothie is great for really little ones because you can leave out the sweetener and it still has a lot of flavor. Just be careful how you serve it so it doesn’t get on everything!

If you or your kids are adventurous you can also add a few pieces of roasted beets. A little goes a long way in terms of changing the flavor. But it also adds a lot of nutrition. If you don’t tell your kids it’s in there they might not know. It won’t change the color.

You can also easily add elderberry syrup to a blueberry smoothie for extra immune system support.

If you are dairy free you can leave out the yogurt and add a bit of powdered probiotics instead. The smoothie will taste great without the yogurt. Or you can add some coconut milk for texture.

Every summer we load up on fresh Michigan blueberries while they are in season and freeze them. Then all winter long we can have delicious smoothies like this, knowing we’re using fruit from the peak of freshness.

If you do not have a blueberry stash in your freezer you can get frozen organic blueberries at the store. They are a better option than any fresh berries you find in the winter since it is not blueberry season.

Blueberries are my favorite fruit…and a blueberry smoothie is my favorite flavor. What’s yours?Simple Smoothie Series: True Blue-Berry || Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Simple Smoothie Series: True Blue-Berry
Serves 2
A healthy smoothie bursting with blueberry flavor.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
  2. 1/4 cup pure blueberry juice
  3. 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt or coconut milk yogurt
  4. 2 egg yolks
  5. 2 Tbsp. honey
  6. 1/4 tsp. sea salt
  7. 1 Tbsp. roasted beet (optional)
  8. 2 Tbsp. elderberry syrup (optional)
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
  1. To make this into popsicles simply pour the smoothie into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.
  2. If you serving the smoothie to a child under one year of age leave out the honey.
  3. You can omit the egg yolks if you are allergic to eggs.
  4. The yogurt can be left out or replaced with coconut milk yogurt or coconut milk to make this dairy free.
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In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.