Choose Fresh Cherries for Healthy and Sweet Back-to-School Snacking

(Family Features) This year provided a long, sweet cherry season, which means fresh sweet cherries will be available in produce aisles during the back-to-school season. Cherries, which are a superfruit packed with nutrients and antioxidants, are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacking, and grab-and-go munching in the car on the way to and from activities.

In addition to school lunches and snacking, cherries can also be added to many breakfast foods like pancakes, granola, yogurt, smoothies, or these Cherry Overnight Oats. Give your family a jumpstart on the day with a healthy cherry breakfast featuring sweet cherries to deliver nutritional benefits, a natural sweetness, and bright color that is sure to delight.

More recipes, from breakfasts and entrees to desserts and drinks, can be found at nwcherries.com/recipe.

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Cherry Overnight Oats

Recipe courtesy of Northwest Cherry Growers

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons pure almond extract
• 4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup Northwest Cherries, roughly chopped, plus additional for serving (optional)
• Greek yogurt (optional)
• Sliced almonds (optional)

In a mixing bowl, stir oats and chia seeds to combine.

Add milk, almond extract, and maple syrup. Stir to combine until uniformly mixed.

Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, divide the oat mixture among four small jars, adding a layer of cherries between scoops. Top with remaining cherries.

Seal jars and transfer to refrigerator overnight, or at least 6 hours, before serving.

Serve on their own or top with Greek yogurt, additional dried cherries, and sliced almonds, if desired.