Getting your little ones to eat healthy snacks can be a challenge, but with these 20 fun and easy recipes, you’ll be well on your way to raising a generation of snack enthusiasts! From classic combinations like banana and peanut butter to new twists like strawberry and cream cheese pinwheels, we’ve got a recipe for every young palate. Whether you’re packing lunches, looking for after-school treats, or just trying to keep the hangry monsters at bay, these healthy snacks are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Banana Peanut Butter Roll-Ups
Get ready for a sweet treat that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat! These Banana Peanut Butter Roll-Ups are perfect for snack time, lunchboxes, or as a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
3. Dip each banana piece into the peanut butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll the coated banana pieces in the rolled oats to create a crunchy exterior.
5. Place the roll-ups on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Berries
Start your day off right with this sweet and satisfying yogurt parfait, packed with crunchy granola and juicy berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in a glass or bowl:
– Start with the yogurt.
– Add the granola on top of the yogurt.
– Spoon the mixed berries over the granola.
2. If desired, drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( Assembly only)
Cheese and Whole Wheat Crackers
These crunchy, cheesy crackers are a perfect snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups and spreads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or to taste)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. Add salt and mix well.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add water as needed to form a dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead 2-3 times.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cracker.
7. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the crackers.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crackers are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Sandwiches with Almond Butter
This recipe combines the crunch of fresh apples with the nutty flavor of almond butter, creating a delicious and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1-2 ripe apples, sliced
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1 tsp honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Spread one slice of bread with the almond butter.
2. Top with a layer of sliced apples.
3. Drizzle with honey, if using.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Cut in half or into quarters, depending on your preference.
Cooking Time:
– 0 minutes! No cooking required, just assemble and enjoy!
Ants on a Log (Celery with Peanut Butter and Raisins)
Get ready for a simple yet satisfying snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike! This classic recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 large celery stalk
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Wash the celery stalk and dry it thoroughly.
2. Spread 1-2 tbsp of peanut butter evenly onto the celery, leaving a small border at each end.
3. Place raisins along the length of the peanut butter-covered celery, spaced out evenly.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready when you are.
Enjoy your delicious Ants on a Log!
Mini Pizza Bagels
Mini Pizza Bagels: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pizza
These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of pizza with the convenience of a bagel, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. In just 20 minutes, you can have a tray of mini pizzas that are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini bagels (8-10 count)
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the mini bagels in half and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the pizza sauce over each bagel, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Fruit Kabobs with Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your snack time with this colorful and refreshing fruit kabob recipe! A sweet and tangy yogurt dip complements the natural flavors of the fresh fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruits (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, banana)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread the fruit pieces onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, honey, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Serve the fruit kabobs with the yogurt dip for a healthy and delicious snack.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes!
Homemade Trail Mix with Nuts and Dried Fruit
Stock your backpack or grab-and-go bag with this tasty and healthy trail mix, made with a combination of nuts, dried fruit, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the dried cranberries and raisins.
3. Add the chocolate chips to the fruit mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Add the puffed rice cereal to the nut mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Combine the fruit-chocolate mixture with the nut mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and serve or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Enjoy a healthy and delicious snack by pairing crunchy veggie sticks with creamy hummus. This recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup carrot sticks
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup hummus
– Optional: paprika, parsley, and/or lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized sticks and arrange on a plate or platter.
2. Serve the hummus alongside the veggie sticks, allowing everyone to help themselves.
3. Garnish with paprika, parsley, and/or lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
A creamy and delicious blend of peanut butter, banana, and milk, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. If desired, add a few ice cubes and blend until frosty.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy smoothie that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Cheesy Quesadilla Triangles
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and addictive triangles that combine the flavors of quesadillas and the ease of a single-ingredient appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each tortilla into three equal triangles.
3. Place a triangle on a flat surface and sprinkle a pinch of cheese in the center.
4. Fold the base of the triangle up over the cheese, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining tortillas and cheese.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the triangles seam-side down.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack. Made with rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey, they’re easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 bites.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None needed! These bites are ready to go straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Oatmeal Energy Bites!
Mini Pancake Stacks with Maple Syrup
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized pancake stacks, drizzled with a rich maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
8. Serve stacks warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on skillet temperature).
Popcorn with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
Elevate your popcorn game with this rich and indulgent treat that combines the perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping snack for movie nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, melt the coconut oil and sprinkle with salt. Pour over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn mixture, using as much or as little as desired.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting of chocolate)
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Get ready to wrap up a delicious treat with this simple recipe! Strawberry and cream cheese pinwheels are the perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread cream cheese evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
4. Top with strawberry jam and sliced strawberries.
5. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
A classic combination of cool cucumber slices and creamy cream cheese makes for a light and satisfying sandwich perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 4 slices of white bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves or chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean work surface.
2. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese onto each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese, slightly overlapping each other.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place another bread slice on top to create a sandwich.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious twist on traditional potato fries, with a natural sweetness and crispy texture. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make baked sweet potato fries that are easy to prepare and healthier than deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the sweet potatoes and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Cut the sweet potatoes into long, thin strips, similar to traditional potato fries.
4. Place the sweet potato strips in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle salt and any additional seasonings you like over the sweet potato strips.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the sweet potato strips in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potato fries are tender and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Muffin Tin Frittatas
A breakfast or brunch favorite, mini frittatas are easy to make and perfect for on-the-go. These individual omelets are a great way to use up leftover vegetables and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for mini muffin tin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add diced bell peppers, onions, cheese, and parsley to the egg mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Spray mini muffin tin cups with cooking spray or oil.
5. Pour egg mixture into each cup, filling about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Pudding
This rich and creamy pudding is a game-changer for chocolate lovers. With the added bonus of healthy avocados, you’ll feel good about satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Rainbow Fruit Salad
Add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your meal with this vibrant Rainbow Fruit Salad! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1 cup grapes, halved
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, blueberries, grapes, and pineapple.
2. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the fruit and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle the honey over the fruit and gently mix until coated.
4. Arrange the orange segments on top of the salad for garnish.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use a variety of colorful fruits to create the rainbow effect.
– Adjust the amount of honey and lime juice to your taste preferences.
– This recipe is best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
Summary
Get ready to delight your kids with these 20 fun and healthy snack recipes! From classic combos like banana peanut butter roll-ups and ants on a log, to sweet treats like mini pizza bagels and chocolate avocado pudding, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruit, or satisfy their hunger with veggie sticks and hummus. These easy-to-make snacks are perfect for school lunches, after-school treats, or just a quick pick-me-up on-the-go. Get creative and have fun with these tasty and nutritious snack ideas!
