Some new, out-of-the box recipes, from our friends at Post Foods, makes it possible to enjoy one of America’s favorite breakfast cereals, Honey Bunches of Oats, in ways that are as creative, as they are delicious. Packed with wholesome ingredients, such as honey, dried fruit and nuts, Post’s recipes also contain things distinguished as being “superfoods.” Rainforest Chewy Bars, for instance, are crowded with apricots and almonds (a whopping cup of each), as well as vitamin E-rich sunflower seeds. And, Morning Energy Mocha Balls, a showcase for Post’s new Morning Energy Chocolate Almond Crunch cereal, are likewise endowed, thanks to the inclusion of healthful sesame seeds, flax seeds and chia seeds – a staple in ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures. (If you are not sure what chia seeds are, see description following today’s recipes.) A simple homemade chocolate chip cookie recipe can benefit from the addition of some cereal, too – the one here calling for two cups of Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds. The options for breakfast cereal are near endless, and we all have favorites. As part of a healthy-diet, cereal has its place, but keep in mind, recipes for foods intended as in-between meal snacks and treats, should be portioned and eaten within limits – especially those comprised of concentrated amounts of sugar and calories.

Sue Ade is a syndicated food writer with broad experience and interest in the culinary arts. She has worked and resided in the Lowcountry of South Carolina since 1985 and may be reached at kitchenade@yahoo.com.