Most steamed fruits will keep in the refrigerator for about 1 day. You can easily make 2–3 servings for immediate use, but if you plan to make a larger batch, freeze the rest. Cut into pieces and place in small freezer-safe plastic containers. Once thawed, the fruits will be ready to go.

• Wash the apple. Peel and core it; then cut into thin slices.

• Place in a saucepan with a small amount of water. Steam until tender, about 10 minutes.

• Drain the apple pieces and serve as finger food.

First Finger Foods

Once your baby is about 9 months old, it's the perfect time to introduce more finger foods. Some babies have a tendency to shove everything into their mouths at once, so be extremely vigilant while your little ones eat. Soft vegetables should be cut into pieces small enough to be picked up, but not large enough to cause choking.