Kellogg’s Fruit Loops and Apple Jacks

Some days, every meal consists of a dry cereal. It's not that I don't provide well-balanced meals, because I do (well, most of the time), but some days my son just wants cereal. Sometimes it's because he hates whatever I am providing , sometimes it's because he doesn't want to take the time to sit down and eat, and sometimes it's just because he loves cereal. What's a mom to do?

Well, cereal has just gotten a bit more nutritious! Kellogg's has taken two of their staple children's cereals (for the record, there is nothing "kid" about these two-I'm a huge fan of them both!) and added in something that is void in so many people's diets-fiber. Did you know that nearly 9 out of 10 children and adults do not have enough fiber in their diet? Wow! By adding fiber to the whole grains of the cereal, you can feel a lot better about letting cereal be a go-to snack or meal!

I was initially concerned about flavor-not so much for my son, but for me. I tried both varieties, and I have to be honest that the fiber tastes almost exactly the same as the regular. If I wasn't doing an actual taste test, I doubt I would have noticed there was a difference.

I plan on making a Christmas snack mix with the Apple Jacks with fiber for my son's preschool class. It's below if you'd like to try it out…it makes a ton (5 quarts) and kids love it. What a great way to re energize the preschool troops than with a favorite cereal in healthier form?

TKDDaughter gives Kellogg's Fruit Loops and Apple Jacks a big thumbs up for providing moms another healthier snack option:

"I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Kellogg’s and received boxes of Froot Loops and Apple Jacks and a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate."

Apple Jacks Snack Mix

7 cups popped popcorn
4 cups Crispix
4 cups Apple Jacks cereal
2 cups salted peanuts
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, cubed
1/2 cup light corn syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

In a large greased roasting pan, combine the popcorn, cereals and peanuts; set aside. In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter and corn syrup; bring to a rolling boil over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Cook, without stirring, until mixture turns a medium amber color, about 8 minutes.

Remove from the heat; quickly stir in vanilla and baking soda until mixture is light and foamy. Immediately pour over cereal mixture; stir until evenly coated.

Bake at 250° for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread mixture onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Cool completely. Store in airtight containers.