Family Fun in a Bowl: How 99th Monkey Almond Butter Makes Breakfast a Delicious Shared Adventure

There's something truly special about shared meals. Beyond just nourishing our bodies, sitting down together – even for a quick breakfast – creates moments of connection, teaches valuable habits, and builds lasting memories. As parents, we often find ourselves preparing separate meals or adapting our own to suit little ones' preferences. But what if we told you there’s a simple, delicious ingredient that can bring everyone to the same table, enjoying the same wholesome goodness?

Enter 99th Monkey Almond Butter.

While often seen as a staple for adult toast or smoothies, our creamy, rich almond butter is actually the secret ingredient to unifying your family's breakfast, making it a truly shared and delightful experience. We're talking about a world where kids genuinely want to eat what you're eating, feeling "all grown up" and loving every single nutty, delicious bite.

Why Almond Butter is the Family Favourite You Didn't Know You Needed

At 99th Monkey, we believe in real food, real flavour, and real goodness for everyone. Our almond butter is crafted from the finest almonds, without any unnecessary additives. This pure, natural quality makes it an ideal choice for the whole family, from tiny tots to busy adults.

Here's why it's a family game-changer:

• Irresistible Flavour: Let's be honest, taste is paramount, especially for kids. Our almond butter has a naturally sweet, creamy, and subtly nutty flavour that is incredibly appealing. It's not overly sweet, allowing its natural goodness to shine, making it a hit with diverse palates.

• Velvety Smooth Texture: The incredibly smooth consistency of 99th Monkey Almond Butter makes it easy to mix into porridges, spread on fruit, or blend into drinks. There are no gritty bits, which is often a win for texture-sensitive eaters.

• Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse: Beyond taste, almond butter is a nutritional superstar. It's packed with:

  • Healthy Fats: Essential for brain development, sustained energy, and nutrient absorption. Crucial for active kids and busy parents alike.

  • Plant-Based Protein: Helps with muscle growth and repair, and keeps everyone feeling full and satisfied, preventing those mid-morning hunger pangs.

  • Fibre: Supports healthy digestion and contributes to stable blood sugar levels.

  • Vitamins & Minerals: A good source of Vitamin E (an antioxidant), Magnesium (for energy and muscle function), and Calcium (for strong bones).

The "I'm Grown Up!" Factor: Sharing the Same Bowl

One of the most powerful motivators for children is the desire to be like their parents or older siblings. When they see you enjoying a delicious, wholesome breakfast and then get to have exactly the same thing, it's incredibly empowering. It validates their independence and makes healthy eating feel like a privilege, not a chore.

Imagine this: You're preparing your morning bowl of oatmeal. Instead of making a separate, "kid-friendly" version, you involve them in making your version. They see you adding the creamy almond butter, the colourful fruit, the sprinkle of cinnamon. When their bowl mirrors yours, they feel a sense of pride and ownership. It's a psychological win that can lead to more adventurous and consistent healthy eating habits.

Breakfast Together: The Oatmeal Adventure

Oatmeal is the perfect canvas for this shared breakfast philosophy. It’s warm, comforting, endlessly customisable, and incredibly nutritious. Here's how to make it a family adventure with 99th Monkey Almond Butter:

The Basic Family Oatmeal Recipe (for 2 adults & 2 kids - adjust as needed):

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats (not instant, for better texture and nutrition)

• 4 cups milk (dairy, almond, oat, or soy – whatever your family prefers)

• Pinch of salt

• Your favourite fruits (sliced banana, berries, chopped apples, pear slices)

• Warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)

• Generous dollops of 99th Monkey Almond Butter!

• Optional: a drizzle of maple syrup or honey (to taste), a sprinkle of chia seeds or chopped nuts.

Method (Get the Kids Involved!):

1. The Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

   • Kids' Role: Let them help measure the oats and milk (with supervision), and give the first few stirs.

2. Cook Until Creamy: Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached a creamy consistency.

   • Kids' Role: Let them stir again (carefully, if the pot is hot). They'll love watching it thicken.

3. Divide & Personalise: Once cooked, scoop equal portions into everyone's individual bowls. This is where the real fun begins!

4. Add Your Favourite Fruits: Lay out a colourful array of pre-cut fruits.

   • Kids' Role: This is their moment to shine! Let them pick their own fruits and arrange them on top. "Can I have strawberries just like Mum?" "Dad, can you cut my banana into stars with the cookie cutter?" (See our previous blog post for more on this fun idea!)

5. Sprinkle with Spices: A dash of cinnamon not only adds flavour but also a lovely aroma.

   • Kids' Role: They can use a small spoon to sprinkle cinnamon, feeling like a true chef.

6. The Star of the Show: 99th Monkey Almond Butter! Now for the grand finale. Offer the jar of 99th Monkey Almond Butter.

   • Kids' Role: Let them add their own dollop (or two) to their bowl. The sheer joy of scooping from the same jar as you, watching that creamy goodness melt into their warm oats, is priceless. They'll feel so grown up having the "same" delicious spread as you do.

7. Sweeten (Optional) & Enjoy: If desired, a tiny drizzle of maple syrup or honey can be added for extra sweetness.

   • Kids' Role: If they're old enough, they can manage a small pour.

Then, sit down, breathe, and enjoy your delicious, shared breakfast. Watch their faces light up as they dig into a bowl that looks just like yours, savouring the rich, nutty flavour of the almond butter.

Beyond Oatmeal: More Family-Friendly Almond Butter Ideas

The family fun doesn't stop at oatmeal! Here are more ways to enjoy 99th Monkey Almond Butter together:

• Almond Butter & Banana Smiles: Simply slice bananas into "coins" and spread a thin layer of 99th Monkey Almond Butter on each one. You can even add mini chocolate chips for "eyes" to make smiley faces. Kids love assembling these!

• Fruit & Veggie Dippers: Cut up apple slices, celery sticks, or carrot sticks and serve with a small bowl of 99th Monkey Almond Butter for dipping. It's an easy way to get more fruit and veggies into their day.

• Smoothie Station: Set up a smoothie bar with our 99th Monkey Protein Smoothies (Chocolate for kids, Coffee for adults), fresh fruit, and, of course, the jar of almond butter. Let everyone choose their blend.

• Lunchbox Love: Spread almond butter on wholemeal bread or wraps for a nutritious and satisfying sandwich. Pair it with fruit slices or even some veggie sticks for a balanced lunch.

• Homemade Snack Bites: Mix oats, shredded coconut, a touch of maple syrup, and plenty of 99th Monkey Almond Butter. Roll into small balls and chill for a quick, wholesome snack you can all enjoy.

Building Healthy Habits, One Spoonful at a Time

By inviting your children to share in the preparation and enjoyment of meals featuring wholesome ingredients like 99th Monkey Almond Butter, you're doing more than just feeding them. You're:

• Fostering a positive relationship with food: Making healthy eating enjoyable and exciting, rather than a battle.

• Encouraging independence: Giving them choices and roles in the kitchen builds confidence.

• Creating lasting memories: These shared moments around food become cherished family traditions.

• Leading by example: When kids see you enjoying nutritious food, they're more likely to embrace it themselves.

At 99th Monkey, we're passionate about making products that fit seamlessly into your life, enhancing both your health and your happiness. Our Almond Butter is a testament to this philosophy – a simple, pure ingredient that brings so much to the table, literally.

So, go ahead. Grab that jar of 99th Monkey Almond Butter. Get your kids involved. Make breakfast a shared adventure. Watch their eyes light up as they eat "just like Mum/Dad," and savour the delicious, nutty goodness together.

What's your favourite way to enjoy 99th Monkey Almond Butter with your family? Share your tips and tricks with us!