(Family Features) Whether your favorite springtime meals take you to the patio or have you throwing open the windows to let fresh air in, enjoying the sunshine and warmth with sweet and savory dishes is a perfect way to celebrate the season. Better yet – bring loved ones together with recipes that are as easy to make as they are delicious for refreshing taste without the hassle.

The uplifting aroma and flavor of Envy Apples offer an invitation to savor small moments around the table, especially when used in simple favorites like muffins, sandwiches, pizza or pies for delicious dishes all day long. Celebrating spring can start with this ultimate apple experience, allowing you to introduce loved ones to new ways to rethink weekly staples.

Wake up with breakfast or brunch on the patio, highlighted by Apple and Date Muffins you can prepare fresh or bake ahead of time then reheat for an easy, breezy morning. Spring often means outdoor activities which require a recharge at lunch like these Apple, Bacon and Brie Cheese Toasties featuring the perfect pairing of sweet with savory.

Wind down the day with Stilton Cheese Pizza, an ultimate family favorite and shareable solution. Finally, cap off the excitement of warming weather and time outdoors with a slice of Classic Apple Lattice Tart served with a scoop of ice cream or custard.

These recipes and more start with the craveable texture and crunch of Envy Apples – a leading apple variety – that provide balanced sweetness with flesh that remains whiter longer, even after cutting, so your favorite meals look as delicious as they taste.

Visit EnvyApple.com to find more patio-perfect recipe inspiration.

Classic Apple Lattice Tart

Servings: 8-10

• 2-3 sheets puff pastry dough
• 5 Envy Apples
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar
• ice cream, custard or cream, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 365 F.
2. Use two sheets semi-thawed pastry to line fluted tart pan approximately 10 inches, pressing and trimming neatly to fit; chill 15 minutes.
3. Peel, core and thinly slice apples into large bowl; sprinkle with sugar, lemon zest and cornstarch then toss well to evenly coat.
4. Arrange apple slices in pastry-lined tart pan, laying flat.
5. Beat egg with milk. Brush egg wash around pastry rim.
6. Cut 1/2-inch strips from remaining pastry sheet and make lattice pattern over apples, crimping edges once lattice is completed.
7. Brush tart with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
8. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden. Allow to cool at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with ice cream, custard or cream, if desired.

Apple and Date Muffins

Servings: 12

• 2 Envy Apples
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup bran flakes
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3/4 cup milk
• butter or powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 F and line muffin pan with cupcake papers.
2. Peel and core apples and dice finely; toss with maple syrup.
3. In large bowl, combine flour, bran flakes, brown sugar, dates, pumpkin pie spice and baking powder; mix well.
4. In separate bowl, whisk melted butter, egg and milk.
5. Add half maple-apple mixture to dry ingredients.
6. Pour wet ingredients into dry and fold together until mixed. Spoon evenly into muffin tin cupcake papers. Add 1 teaspoon remaining maple-apple mixture to top of each muffin.
7. Bake 20-25 minutes until muffin mix is set and apple topping is golden. Allow muffins to cool 5 minutes before removing from tin.
8. Serve with butter or dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Stilton Cheese Pizza

Yield: 1 pizza

• 1 tablespoon pizza sauce
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
• 1 storebought pizza crust
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/3 cup stilton cheese, divided
• 1 Envy Apple
• 4 slices prosciutto
• fresh arugula leaves, for garnish
• fresh basil, for garnish
• toasted walnuts (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Combine pizza sauce and sweet chili sauce. Spread sauce over pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the stilton cheese.
4. Cut apple in half then core and slice into thin wedges. Arrange apple over cheese then top with remaining cheese.
5. Cook pizza 7-10 minutes until pale golden and starting to bubble. Add prosciutto and cook 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbling.
6. Serve with fresh arugula and basil. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, if desired.

Apple, Bacon and Brie Cheese Toasties

Servings: 2

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 teaspoon honey mustard, plus additional for serving (optional)
• 4 slices cooked bacon
• 1 Envy Apple, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 3/4 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• side salad, for serving (optional)

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Lay out two slices bread, buttered sides down. Top with honey mustard then layer with two bacon slices, apple slices and brie cheese slices. Top with remaining slices bread, buttered sides up, to create two sandwiches.
3. Heat grill pan or frying pan and cook sandwiches until golden brown on each side and cheese is beginning to bubble.
4. Cut sandwiches in half and serve with side salad or extra honey mustard, if desired.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) For many, enjoying a small indulgence can serve as a reward for a job well done or a mood-boosting pick-me-up. In fact, mindful snacking is on-trend for a majority of consumers.

According to Mondelez International’s Fourth Annual State of Snacking Global Consumer Trends Study, 78% are choosing small indulgences to pamper themselves and 68% are checking nutrition labels on snacks.

With today’s changing palates and the growing demand for sour, less sweet foods and beverages, a superfruit like tart cherries can help snackers permissibly indulge without the guilt. Primarily grown on small family farms in the United States, Montmorency tart cherries – also referred to as sour cherries – are available year-round in dried, juice and juice concentrate, canned and frozen forms.

More than 110 scientific research studies show Montmorency tart cherries are a superfruit. In addition to their sweet-sour taste and unique nutrient profile, research suggests tart cherries – one of the few natural food sources of melatonin – may help improve sleep, aid in exercise recovery, reduce inflammation, ease arthritis symptoms, improve gut health and promote heart health. In fact, in one study published in the “European Journal of Nutrition,” adults who drank Montmorency tart cherry juice slept about 40 minutes longer on average and had up to a 6% increase in sleep efficiency.

While increasingly featured in functional beverages and health-positioned foods, tart cherries can also add drool-worthy flavor to superfruit-infused snacks, such as these Tart Cherry Superfood Banana Splits and Tart Cherry Brownie Bites. Plus, using tart cherries as a favorite ingredient in recipes like these adds a health halo to sweets – reinforcing the trend of permissible indulgences.

As an ideal superfruit snack that makes snacking more satisfying, tart cherries provide delicious flavor and potential health benefits in these recipes and beyond so you can savor the moment and cherish every bite.

Find more tart cherry snack recipes at ChooseCherries.com.

Tart Cherry Superfood Banana Splits

Recipe courtesy of Hannah Zimmerman of Bite Sized Studio on behalf of the U.S. Tart Cherry Industry
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 cups tart cherry juice
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1/4 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/2 cup frozen tart cherries, thawed

1. Place chocolate chips in bowl.
2. In saucepan over medium heat, bring tart cherry juice to simmer about 20 minutes until reduced to 2/3 cup.
3. Pour juice into bowl and mix until chocolate chips are melted and sauce is smooth.
4. Cut bananas in half lengthwise and place on two plates. Spoon 1/2 cup Greek yogurt on each banana then drizzle with 2 tablespoons almond butter and 2 tablespoons tart cherry chocolate sauce.
5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons granola, 2 tablespoons dried tart cherries and 1/4 cup thawed frozen tart cherries on top of each banana split.

Note: Leftover tart cherry chocolate sauce can be stored in airtight container in refrigerator for later use.

Tart Cherry Brownie Bites

Recipe courtesy of Hannah Zimmerman of Bite Sized Studio on behalf of the U.S. Tart Cherry Industry
Prep time: 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bites

• 10 medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 2 tablespoons rolled oats
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon chia or hemp seeds (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons peanut or almond butter
• 4 tablespoons tart cherry juice
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• cocoa powder (optional)
• melted chocolate (optional)

1. In bowl of food processor, combine dates; dried tart cherries; walnuts; oats; cocoa powder; seeds, if desired; salt; and nut butter. Pulse 30-60 seconds until ingredients are ground into tiny pieces.
2. Add tart cherry juice in 1 tablespoon additions, pulsing mixture after each addition, until crumbly dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to bowl and fold in chocolate chips.
4. Roll dough into 12 balls. Serve plain or finish balls with dusting of cocoa powder or drizzle of melted chocolate, if desired.

Source: Cherry Marketing Institute

(Family Features) Power up for summer adventures by shaking up your snacking routine with homemade recipes inspired by childhood favorites.

Tasty and versatile, California walnuts are easy to swap into your favorite snack recipes and work hard to keep you energized and full. Kick off summer with some irresistible plant-forward Walnut Chorizo Pizza Bites and Strawberry Walnut Hand Pies for delicious summer snacks loaded with the nutrition benefits of walnuts.

Visit walnuts.org/snacking for more snack recipes.

Strawberry Walnut Hand Pies

Dough:

• 1/4 cup California walnuts
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cane sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 7 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4-5 tablespoons ice cold water
• 1 egg, beaten

Strawberry Walnut Filling:

• 1 cup strawberries, tops removed, halved
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cane sugar
• 1/3 cup finely chopped California walnuts

Frosting:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons 2% milk
• 1/2 teaspoon beetroot powder
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped California walnuts

1. To make dough: In food processor, pulse walnuts until fine and evenly ground. Add flour, sugar and salt to ground walnuts; pulse to combine. Add cubed butter; pulse until butter is in small pieces. Add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing while adding, until dough starts sticking together.
2. Transfer dough to clean surface; shape into two 4-inch discs. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate 1 hour.
3. To make filling: In food processor, pulse strawberries and lemon juice until slightly chunky.
4. Transfer to saucepan and gradually whisk in cornstarch until dissolved. Stir in sugar.
5. Heat over low heat until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Turn heat off and stir in chopped walnuts. Transfer mixture to small bowl; refrigerate.
6. To assemble hand pies: Remove one dough disc from refrigerator. Lightly flour work surface and rolling pin. Roll out dough into large rectangle. Slice dough into six 4-by-2-inch rectangles. Place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
7. In bowl, mix water and egg. Brush perimeter of dough rectangles with egg wash. Place 1 tablespoon filling on center of dough.
8. Roll out second dough disc, creating six rectangles of dough. Place on top of jam and crimp edges with fork to seal. Freeze hand pies 20 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 375 F.
10. Trim uneven edges of dough with sharp knife and brush tops and sides with egg wash.
11. Bake 20-24 minutes until golden brown around edges. Cool at room temperature 5 minutes on baking sheet then transfer to wire cooling rack until completely cooled.
12. To make frosting: In bowl, whisk sugar, milk and beetroot powder until thick but smooth. Drizzle frosting over hand pies and top with chopped walnuts. Cool 15 minutes, or until frosting is set.

Walnut Chorizo Pizza Bites

Walnut Chorizo:

• 1 1/2 cups California walnuts
• 1 cup pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pizza Bites:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup sliced sweet onion
• 5 mini bagels
• 1 large zucchini, sliced 1/2 inch (10 slices)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup walnut chorizo
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped basil

1. To make walnut chorizo: In food processor, pulse walnuts until finely crumbled. Transfer to mixing bowl.
2. In food processor, pulse pinto beans, lime juice, paprika, oregano, cumin, chipotle powder, salt and garlic powder until mixture resembles ground meat. Stir bean mixture with walnut pieces.
3. In medium skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add walnut chorizo and cook 5-7 minutes until lightly browned, using spatula to break into crumbles.
4. To make pizza bites: In pan over medium heat, heat olive oil and add onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, 15-20 minutes until onion is soft and golden brown.
5. Preheat oven to 375 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Halve bagels and place on baking sheet. Place zucchini slices on second baking sheet.
6. Top each bagel and zucchini slice with 1 tablespoon marinara; spread with back of spoon. Add 1 tablespoon walnut chorizo crumbles to each bagel and zucchini slice. Sprinkle with caramelized onion and goat cheese.
7. Bake 10 minutes.
8. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheets. Top with basil.

Source: California Walnut Board

(Family Features) The winter months provide many occasions to celebrate, and no celebration is complete without tasty treats. A perfect partner for a broad variety of flavors, popcorn is a versatile pantry staple that can be served plain or as a better-for-you addition to seasonal snacks.

With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to satisfy cravings for something savory, sweet and just about every flavor in-between. Plus, whole-grain popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer.

As a way to honor one of America’s oldest and most beloved snack foods, National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19 is a perfect opportunity to pop up a bowl to enjoy with loved ones or create whole-grain culinary masterpieces like fragrant and flavorful Jamaican Jerk Popcorn, which features hot pepper, spices and jerk butter to help you warm up from the inside out. Or consider another tasty snack option like Furikake Popcorn, a lighter recipe exploding with the flavors of sesame, nori and a Japanese spice blend.

You can combine favorite flavors for movie night with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn, which is perfect for settling in on a snowy winter’s eve, and an option like Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters, featuring chocolate, marshmallows and nuts, are perfect for sharing with loved ones after an evening meal.

Find more fun, fluffy and flavorful recipes to celebrate everything winter has to offer at Popcorn.org.

Furikake Popcorn

Yield: 2-3 servings

Furikake Seasoning:

• 1 nori sheet, broken into pieces
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 6 cups popped popcorn
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

1. To make furikake seasoning: In spice grinder or using mortar and pestle, grind nori with 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds until finely ground. Transfer to small bowl; stir in remaining sesame seeds, salt and sugar.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with butter and furikake seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Tips: Use store-bought furikake seasoning and season to taste.
4. To toast sesame seeds: In small dry skillet over medium heat, cook sesame seeds 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool completely before using.

Jamaican Jerk Popcorn

Yield: 4-6 servings

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon minced, seeded scotch bonnet chili pepper
• 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 cups popped popcorn

1. In small saucepan, combine butter, chili pepper, lime zest, chili powder, thyme, allspice, pepper, ginger, garlic powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, onion powder and salt. Cook over low heat 3-5 minutes, or until butter melts and mixture is fragrant.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with spice mixture until evenly coated.

Tip: Omit scotch bonnet pepper and substitute 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, if preferred.

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn

Yield: 6-8 servings (1 cup each)

• 1/4 cup nonfat Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon dried sage
• black pepper, to taste
• 12 cups air-popped popcorn
• 3/4 cup turkey pepperoni, cut into bite-size bits
• olive oil cooking spray

1. In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil, sage and pepper; mix well.
2. In large bowl, combine popcorn and turkey pepperoni; spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture; toss to coat evenly.

Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters

Yield: 3 dozen

• 1 bag (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups popped popcorn
• 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

1. In small microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave on high 1 minute, until melted. Stir in vegetable oil.
2. In large bowl, add popcorn, marshmallows and walnuts. Pour melted chocolate over mixture, tossing to coat.
3. Drop mixture by tablespoonful onto wax paper-lined jellyroll pan.
4. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours, or overnight.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Entertaining guests during the holidays isn’t just about a main course that calls all to the table. What often makes a festive gathering more fruitful is a spread of delicious appetizers, delightful drinks and divine desserts that keep loved ones coming back to the kitchen for more.

For appetizing dishes from the first guest at the house to the last out the door, you can heighten the flavor and appearance of favorite recipes with one simple ingredient: apples. Ranging from tart to sugary sweet, finding the right balance for your palate is key. Scent can also influence taste, especially when you have a balanced sweetness with an uplifting, fresh aroma.

Turn to an option like Envy Apples this holiday season for satisfying texture and taste with a consistently balanced, refreshing sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch. They make for an easy snack when eaten fresh out of hand but are also perfect for holding over pre-dinner appetites in small plates like this Bell-Issimo Brie Melt or Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy.

The versatile flavor of apples isn’t just limited to foods, however. For the adults in the room, Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider with a splash of bourbon is a seasonally appropriate way to quench thirst and break the ice. Simply omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version so the whole party can savor a sip.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, Envy Apples offer an easy, eye-catching way to try new tastes and celebrate joyful occasions together. The bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown when sliced for a fresher flavor in sweet treats like Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping for a tasty way to elevate your holiday get-togethers.

Find more sweet holiday recipes at EnvyApple.com.

Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 Envy Apples, diced into large cubes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup cold butter, diced small
• 1/2 cup caramel
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 orange, zest only
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In bowl, stir together sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. Toss apples in lemon juice then in cinnamon sugar mixture. Spread in 9-inch pie dish.
4. In another bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour and oats. Using hands or fork, cut in butter until pea size crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
5. Bake 40-45 minutes until mixture is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool 15 minutes.
6. In small pot, whisk caramel, salt, orange zest and orange juice until warm.
7. Spoon apple oat crumble over large scoop vanilla ice cream and top with salted citrus caramel.

Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy

• 1 box stovetop stuffing
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups diced Envy Apples
• 1/2 onion, diced small

Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 20 turns fresh cracked pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary

1. Preheat broiler.
2. Cook stuffing according to package directions; set aside and allow to cool slightly.
3. In large saute pan, melt butter saute apples and onion until tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Stir together stuffing and apple mixture. Spread stuffing on sheet tray and allow to cool in refrigerator.
5. After cooling, form stuffing into medium bites and place on sheet tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Broil bites until golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. To make gravy: In small pot, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook flour 1 minute, whisking frequently.
8. Whisk in beef broth, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce; bring to boil, whisking frequently. Remove from heat and stir in rosemary. If desired, continue gently simmering gravy to thicken.
9. Arrange stuffing bites in serving dish and drizzle with gravy. Serve hot.

Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider

• 1 Envy Apple, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 2 ounces bourbon
• 4 ounces pumpkin spice apple cider
• demerara sugar
• Envy Apple slices, for garnish
• rosemary, for garnish
• cinnamon stick, for garnish

1. In pan over medium heat, saute diced apples in butter and pumpkin spice 5-10 minutes.
2. In glass, combine bourbon and pumpkin spice apple cider; top with sauteed apples.
3. Add demerara sugar then garnish with apple slices, rosemary and cinnamon stick.

Bell-Issimo Brie Melt

• 1 round brie (6-8 ounces)
• 2 Envy Apples
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• firm crackers

1. Unwrap brie and place on microwave-safe dish. Cut off top of brie round and microwave 60 seconds until middle is soft.
2. Slice apples into thick wedges.
3. Top brie with half the apples, crushed walnuts and dried cranberries.
4. Serve with firm crackers and remaining apple wedges.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) One of the best parts of the holidays is the aromas and flavors of the season, from walnuts and cinnamon to peppermint and nutmeg. Sweet treats and mouthwatering desserts can bring family and friends around the table to celebrate the season together, one bite at a time.

During your festive gatherings this year, choose walnuts as the star baking ingredient. As many home cooks turn to wholesome ingredients that offer health benefits this holiday baking season, California walnuts make for a perfect addition to almost any dish and are an excellent source of omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz). With a buttery flavor that elevates traditional and modern recipes, home bakers can do more with walnuts in the kitchen.

Part pumpkin, part cheesecake, this Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart spices up the classic pumpkin pie recipe. Top it, or other favorite desserts, with light and airy Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream flavored with honey and vanilla to complement festive dishes.

This holiday season, pick up a bag of walnuts for all your baking needs. To discover more festive dessert ideas, visit walnuts.org.

Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart

Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Sweet Tart Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1/3 cup California walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup salted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• nonstick cooking spray

Filling:

• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin
• 4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 cup California walnuts, coarsely chopped

• whipped cream, for serving (optional)

1. To make sweet tart crust: In medium bowl, stir flour, walnuts and powdered sugar. Stir in butter and egg. Using fork, stir well until soft dough forms. Gather into ball and wrap tightly.
2. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or until dough is easy to handle.
3. Preheat oven to 350 F and coat 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom with nonstick cooking spray.
4. Lay pastry dough on lightly floured board and roll into 11-inch circle. Press dough into bottom and sides of prepared pan and poke with fork on bottom and sides. Bake 20 minutes.
5. To make filling: In medium bowl, whisk pumpkin and cream cheese until smooth. Add brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, egg and egg yolk, beating until incorporated.
6. Pour into prepared crust and top with walnuts. Bake 40 minutes, or until filling is set when pan is gently tapped.
7. Remove from oven and let cool. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
8. Serve each slice with dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream

Total time: 8 minutes
Servings: 14

• 2 1/2 cups California walnuts, divided
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons honey, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

1. In blender, puree 2 cups walnuts and water 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon honey, vanilla extract and salt; blend 30 seconds. Add remaining honey if sweeter taste is desired.
3. To achieve thicker whipped cream, add remaining walnuts and puree until light and fluffy.
4. Store tightly covered in refrigerator until ready to use.

Source: California Walnuts

(Family Features) The importance of health and wellness is top of mind for many people. There are many contributing factors to wellness such as diet, physical activity, social engagement and genetics. All are important, but a first step to wellness is choosing healthy foods to fuel the body every day, ideally foods that support health in multiple ways.

Consider grapes from California: they are convenient, healthy, hydrating and provide energy to help support healthy and active lifestyles. Eating grapes is also linked to beneficial impacts on the health of specific body parts and systems, including the heart, brain, skin and colon.

Most of grapes’ health benefits are attributed to the presence of natural plant compounds known as polyphenols, which help promote antioxidant activity and influence biological processes that support overall health. Grapes of all colors – red, green and black – are natural sources of polyphenols.

Fresh California grapes are refreshing by the handful, but they also lend a tasty burst of flavor to a wide range of recipes you can enjoy any time of day. This Heart Smart Smoothie is a deliciously healthy way to start the day; pairing grapes with nuts and seeds in No-Bake Energy Bites delivers a hearty snack to enjoy midday, after school or following a workout; and Quinoa, Cauliflower and Grape Salad is perfect at any mealtime for a powerful combo of both taste and health.

Grapes and a Healthy Brain

Research suggests regularly eating grapes as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to improved health outcomes, including brain health.

In a study of people with early memory decline published in “Experimental Gerontology,” subjects were either fed whole grape powder equivalent to just 2 1/4 cups of grapes per day or a placebo powder. The results showed consuming grapes preserved healthy metabolic activity in regions of the brain associated with early Alzheimer’s disease, where metabolic decline takes hold.

Subjects who didn’t consume grapes exhibited significant metabolic decline in these critical regions. Additionally, those consuming the grape-enriched diet showed beneficial changes in regional brain metabolism that correlated to improvements in attention and working memory performance.

Find more nutritious recipes at GrapesFromCalifornia.com .

No-Bake Energy Bites

Prep time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 energy bites

• 1/3       cup raw almonds
• 1/3       cup walnuts
• 1/2       cup pitted dates
• 1 1/2    teaspoons fresh orange juice or lemon juice
• 1          pinch sea salt
• 8          seedless California grapes
• 1/3       cup chia or hemp seeds

1. In bowl of food processor, pulse almonds and walnuts 5-6 times to coarsely chop. Add dates and process until mixture is finely chopped. Add juice and process until just combined; transfer mixture to small plate.
2. Dry grapes. Pack 1 tablespoon date mixture around each grape, completely covering to seal. Repeat with remaining grapes and date mixture.
3. Roll balls in seeds to coat. Store in covered container in refrigerator up to three days.

Nutritional information per energy bite: 120 calories; 3 g protein; 12 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (53% calories from fat); 0.5 g saturated fat (4% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 20 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Heart Smart Grape and Peanut Butter Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1          cup red California grapes, chilled
• 2/3       cup unsweetened almond milk, chilled
• 1/2       cup ice cubes
• 1/2       small banana
• 1          tablespoon peanut butter
• 1          tablespoon ground flax seed
• 2          teaspoons cacao powder

1. In blender on high speed, blend grapes, almond milk, ice, banana, peanut butter, flax seed and cacao powder until smooth.

Nutritional information per serving: 350 calories; 8 g protein; 53 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (36% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 220 mg sodium; 7 g fiber.

Quinoa, Cauliflower and Grape Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1          cup white quinoa
• 1          small head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into small florets
• 1 1/4    cups red California grapes, halved
• 3          scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced
• 2          ripe avocados, diced 1/3 inch

Dressing:

• 2          tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1          tablespoon lime juice
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1/2       teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2       teaspoon dried oregano, crumbled
• 1/2       teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4       cup extra-virgin olive oil
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions and drain on two layers of paper towels. Transfer to mixing bowl. Add cauliflower, grapes, scallions and avocado pieces.
2. To make dressing: In small bowl, whisk vinegar, lime juice, honey, cumin, oregano and salt until blended. Gradually whisk in oil. Drizzle dressing over quinoa mixture and toss gently. Season with pepper, to taste.

Nutritional information per serving: 260 calories; 5 g protein; 27 g carbo hydrates; 16 g fat (55% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Bring your family together for a tasty dessert that’s packed with whole grains, a nutrient many Americans are missing from their diets.

According to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, most Americans fail to get enough whole grains each day, opting instead for mostly refined grains. Because whole grains keep their dietary fiber, they play a key role in keeping bodies healthy.

These Power Packed Popcorn Cookies can help you make every bite count by including an easy health hack: popcorn. As a simple option for meeting dietary recommendations, 3 cups of popcorn is equal to one serving of whole grains, meaning you can snack on it throughout the day to meet your goals or enjoy it in a sharable dish.

Find more whole-grain solutions at popcorn.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Power Packed Popcorn Cookies

Yield: 4 dozen cookies

•             Nonstick cooking spray
• 1/4       cup whole-wheat or all-purpose flour
• 2          teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
• 1          cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1          egg
• 1          teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1          cup toasted wheat germ
• 1/2       cup oatmeal
• 1/2       cup flaked coconut
• 3          cups popped popcorn
• 1          cup raisins, dried cranberries or other dried fruit, chopped
• 1/2       cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. In small bowl, stir flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. Cream butter and brown sugar together then add egg and vanilla; mix well. Stir in flour mixture, wheat germ and oatmeal until well blended. Add coconut, popcorn, raisins and sunflower seeds, if desired; mix until well blended.
4. Drop rounded teaspoons onto baking sheets with 2 inches between cookies.
5. Bake 7-8 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
6. Allow cookies to cool on pan 5 minutes before removing to racks to cool completely.

Source:  Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Fun in the summer sun can mean anything from poolside play and outdoor exercise to simply relaxing in the shade. While these activities make the season special for people of all ages, the heat also leads to the inevitable: sweat.

Electrolytes, critical for the human body to function, are lost via sweat throughout the day. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, helps keep you hydrated. However, adding 100% orange juice to your diet can help replace those lost electrolytes in addition to aiding hydration. According to a study published in the “Journal of Nutrition and Health Sciences,” drinking 100% orange juice following exercise contributes to hydration equally as well as water and sports drinks, making the beverage a viable alternative for recovery.

“Electrolytes include nutrients such as potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, scientific research director at the Florida Department of Citrus. “In fluids, these nutrients carry an electric charge, which allows muscles to contract and nerves to transmit signals, and are critical for the human body to function. Plain water contains few if any electrolytes, so you must replace lost electrolytes by consuming foods or beverages that contain these nutrients. Drinking fluids that contain both water and electrolytes, such as 100% orange juice, may help support hydration.”

In fact, 100% orange juice contains about 90% water and can contribute to overall water intake. With no added sugar, it’s an ideal way to support hydration by drinking it on its own or by adding it to recipes like this Healthy Broccoli Salad with Miso Orange Dressing or Pineapple Orange Smoothie.

Consider these major electrolytes found in orange juice:

• Potassium: The major electrolyte within all cells, it helps balance fluid in the body with a strong relationship to sodium, the major electrolyte in the blood and outside the cells. Potassium is especially important for regulating heart rhythm and function. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice provides 10% of the recommended daily value for potassium.
• Magnesium: The fourth-most abundant mineral in the body and essential in the regulation of muscle contraction, cardiac excitability, blood pressure and other vital processes. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice contains 6% of the recommended daily value for magnesium.
• Calcium: Found in fortified varieties of orange juice, calcium plays an important role in muscle contraction, nerve transmission and the contraction and relaxation of the cardiovascular system. As an excellent source of calcium, an 8-ounce serving of fortified orange juice provides 30% of the recommended daily value.

Visit floridajuice.com to find more recipes that aid in summer hydration.

Healthy Broccoli Salad with Miso Orange Dressing

Servings: 1

Salad:

• 2          heads broccoli, cut into small florets
• 2          cups purple cabbage, chopped
• 1/2       cup golden raisins
• 1/2       cup slivered almonds
• 1/2       cup chopped green onions

Miso Orange Dressing:

• 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
• 2          tablespoons canola oil
• 2          tablespoons miso
• 2          tablespoons almond butter
• 1          shallot

1. To make salad: In bowl, toss broccoli, cabbage, raisins, almonds and green onions.
2. To make miso orange dressing: In food processor or blender, pulse orange juice, canola oil, miso, almond butter and shallot until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over salad, tossing to coat. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator.

Pineapple Orange Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1/2       cup plain almond milk
• 1          frozen banana
• 1          cup frozen pineapple
• 1          teaspoon turmeric
• 1          scoop walnuts
• 1/8       teaspoon cayenne
• 2-3       ice cubes
• 1          scoop plain protein powder (optional)

1. In large blender, blend orange juice, almond milk, frozen banana, frozen pineapple, turmeric, walnuts, cayenne, ice cubes and protein powder, if desired, until smooth.
2. Portion into two small glasses.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Plant-forward eating should be easy and delicious – and it can be. Rather than follow strict rules, simply add plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and grains to more meals throughout the day.

Walnuts, for example, are a kitchen multi-tasker with uses well beyond baked goods. In fact, walnuts can be used as a simple, whole-food meat alternative. One ounce of walnuts contains important nutrients including 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat, 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat and 2.5 grams of essential omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid.

Try walnuts as an alternative to meat in recipes like Walnut Meatless Meatballs or Pizza with Plant-Based Walnut Crumble, and find more plant-forward recipes at walnuts.org/plantrecipes.

Walnut Meatless Meatballs

Total time: 42 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4       cup minced onion
• 1          teaspoon minced garlic
• 1          tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2       cup California Walnuts, chopped
• 1/4       cup cooked brown rice
• 1/4       cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 1/4       cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4       cup Parmesan cheese
• 1          tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2          tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
• 1          egg, beaten

1. Preheat oven to 375 F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In small skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic; saute 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Transfer to food processor with walnuts, rice, roasted red peppers, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley and egg. Pulse until combined but not mushy.
3. Form into eight equal balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Cook 12 minutes, or until firm to touch. Serve with sauce of choice.

Pizza with Plant-Based Walnut Crumble

Total time: 38 minutes
Servings: 4

Walnut Sausage Crumble:

• 1          cup California Walnuts
• 1/2       cup cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1          tablespoon coconut aminos
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 2          teaspoons fennel seeds
• 2          teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1          teaspoon onion powder
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1          teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4       teaspoon celery salt

Walnut Sausage Pizza:

• 1          pound pizza dough
• 6          tablespoons pizza sauce
• 2/3       cup mozzarella cheese, divided
• Walnut Sausage Crumble, divided
• 6          tablespoons pesto
• 1/4       cup sliced small tomatoes
• fresh basil leaves
• shaved Parmesan cheese

1. To make Walnut Sausage Crumble: In food processor, pulse walnuts, cannellini beans, coconut aminos, olive oil, fennel seeds, seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika and salt to sausage like consistency.
2. To make Walnut Sausage Pizza: Preheat oven to 500 F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide dough into four pieces and roll out into thin ovals; place on baking sheets.
3. Spread two dough pieces with equal amounts pizza sauce, 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese and half of Walnut Sausage Crumble.
4. Spread remaining dough pieces with pesto, remaining cheese, remaining Walnut Sausage Crumble and tomatoes.
5. Bake 8 minutes, or until pizza edges are golden brown. Garnish with basil leaves and shaved Parmesan.

Source: California Walnuts