Baking with Brain Boosting Wild Blueberries

As many of us self-quarantine to prevent the spread of COVID-19, people are looking for ways to pass the time at home, while also curbing anxiety. One of the big trends emerging is baking (and lots of it).  Why, you ask? Well, baking can be extremely calming because it requires focus. You’ve got to admit, forming a pie crust or digging your hands to knead bread can transport you away, almost like meditating. If you’re finding comfort in baking while at home, consider a recipe with brain-healthy Wild Blueberries. This special fruit – one of North America’s original fruits – has been studied by scientists for over 20 years and evidence suggests that consuming Wild Blues may lead to better mood in adolescents, improved memory for adults, and better focus for all ages. Turns out that it’s your brain’s lucky day…we have some wild baking recipes up our sleeves that we’d be happy to share.

If you’re leaning toward the healthy side:

• Standard Baking Company’s Wild Blueberry Oat Scones – If you’ve been to Portland, Maine, chances are you’ve heard that Standard Baking is a local favorite. Give these scones a try for a healthier breakfast baked good that kids are sure to love.
• Wild Blueberry Bran Muffins – These muffins are healthy, easy to make, and good for noggins of all ages.
• Healthy Wild Blueberry Crumble Bars – The ingredients and directions for these crumble bars are a perfect fit for getting the whole family baking by your side. Grab a mixing bowl and get the kids involved to pass the time at home.

If you’re feeling like you want a treat:

• Wild Blueberry Baked Donuts – Plain and simple, you donut want to miss this recipe (see what we did there?) Because really, who doesn’t like donuts?
• Wild Blueberry Ice Cream Sandwiches – With warmer days on the way, you’ll definitely want to check out this ice cream sandwich recipe topped with frozen Wild Blueberries. These little sandwiches are great to enjoy outside and are still relatively healthy!
• Wild Blueberry Pie – We couldn’t pass up the chance to share a Maine classic. Did you know that Wild Blueberries are native to Maine? They grow on ankle-height bushes in the cold, harsh, rocky climate of Maine’s countryside. Surviving the environmental stressors of the harsh winter climate is what makes the berries so hardy and good for you! When making this pie recipe, here’s a hot tip from Maine natives: you won’t regret topping your slice with a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream.

Looking for more cooking inspiration beyond baking? Check out the dozens of recipes we have on our website.

We’re all making the most of our current situation and, lucky for many of us, that means eating well. In a time when mental health is so important, take care of your brain by including Wild Blueberries in your next baking escapade. You find them in the frozen fruit aisle of the supermarket and a good item to add to your freezer pantry so you have that taste of summer at the ready whenever you want to use them. Once you’re done, post a photo of your masterpiece and tag @wildblueberries on Instagram. We can’t wait to see what you come up with. Stay healthy and happy in your kitchen in the days ahead.