1. Wash your hands and make sure your baby is seated upright in a safe highchair or seat.
2. Rinse the blackberries under cool running water and gently pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
3. Inspect the blackberries and discard any that are overripe or mouldy. If the berries are very large, cut them in half lengthwise to reduce choking risk; otherwise whole soft berries are fine for 10+ months as they squash easily.
4. Choose a mild, pasteurised cheese suitable for toddlers (e.g., mild cheddar). Cut the cheese into batons about 1 cm thick and 4 cm long (or into small cubes/sticks) that are easy for little fingers to grasp.
5. Arrange 4–6 blackberries and several cheese batons on a small plate or tray, leaving space so the baby can pick up each piece easily. Offer one piece at a time if you prefer a slower introduction.
6. Encourage self-feeding but stay within arm’s reach and maintain eye contact. Let the toddler handle and explore the foods; do not leave them unattended while eating.
7. If introducing both foods together, you can offer a blackberry followed by a cheese baton to combine sweet and savoury textures. Avoid adding salt, honey, or strong spices for babies under 12 months.

Summary

Simple baby-led weaning snack of blackberries and mild cheese cut into toddler-friendly pieces. Soft, mostly cold, and meant for self-feeding by babies 10 months and older.

Storing

Prepared cheese and cut berries should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge at ≤4°C and used within 24 hours. Whole unwashed blackberries keep longer if refrigerated in their original container; wash just before serving.

Allergies & Side Effects

Possible dairy allergy or intolerance from cheese and rare berry-related reactions. There is always a choking risk with finger foods—ensure appropriate piece size, supervise closely, and seek immediate help if choking or allergic reaction occurs.