Searching for wholesome and tasty snacks that you can easily prepare at home for your little ones? Look no further! We've assembled a collection of nourishing bites that are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to fuel your kids' growing appetites. With these homemade snacks, you have the power to ensure your children enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients while exploring a world of delightful flavors.
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we unveil 10 nutritious snacks that your kids will love and that you can whip up in your own kitchen. Let's create lasting memories with homemade goodness that keeps your little adventurers fueled and ready to take on the world!
1. Apple “cookies”
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, cored and sliced into rounds
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or any nut-free butter for allergies)
- Toppings: raisins, sliced strawberries, shredded coconut, chia seeds, etc.
Instructions:
Spread a thin layer of nut butter on each apple slice. Add your favourite toppings on top of the nut butter. Arrange the apple “cookies” on a plate and serve. This snack is fun, nutritious, and offers a good balance of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.
2. Veggie sushi rolls
Ingredients:
- Nori seaweed sheets
- Cooked sushi rice (can use brown or white rice)
- Sliced vegetables (carrots, cucumber, avocado, bell peppers)
- Cooked and seasoned protein (grilled chicken, tofu, or cooked shrimp)
Instructions:
Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat or a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top. Place the sliced vegetables and protein in the center of the rice. Carefully roll the nori and rice around the fillings, using the sushi mat to help create a tight roll. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce or tamari for dipping.
3. Frozen yogurt bark
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Fresh fruit (berries, sliced kiwi, mango, etc.)
- Nuts and seeds (chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, etc.)
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and honey or maple syrup until well combined. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the parchment paper. Arrange the fresh fruit and nuts/seeds on top of the yogurt. Freeze the yogurt bark for a few hours until firm. Once frozen, break the bark into smaller pieces and serve as a refreshing and nutrient-packed treat.
4. Hummus veggie wraps
Ingredients:
- Whole-grain tortilla wraps
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Sliced vegetables (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
Lay a tortilla wrap on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of hummus over the wrap. Add the sliced vegetables on top of the hummus. Roll the wrap tightly and cut it into smaller rolls or bite-sized pinwheels. These hummus veggie wraps are full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great source of nutrition.
5. Banana oatmeal cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup raisins or dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, rolled oats, applesauce, raisins or chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden and firm. Allow them to cool before serving.
6. Ants on a log
Ingredients:
- Celery stalks, washed and cut into sticks
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or any nut-free butter for allergies)
- Raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions:
Fill the celery sticks with nut butter. Place raisins or dried cranberries on top of the nut butter to resemble “ants on a log.” This classic and playful snack is a nutritious combination of crunchy celery, creamy nut butter, and sweet dried fruit.
7. Cucumber and cream cheese bites
Ingredients:
- English cucumber, sliced into rounds
- Cream cheese (regular or vegan)
Instructions:
Spread a dollop of cream cheese on each cucumber round. Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of dill, chives, or a dash of black pepper for extra flavor. These refreshing cucumber and cream cheese bites are low in calories and perfect for hot summer days.
8. Sweet potato toasts
Ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes, sliced into thin rounds or lengthwise
Instructions:
Preheat your toaster or toaster oven. Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds or lengthwise, depending on your preference. Toast the sweet potato slices until they are cooked through and slightly crispy. Top with avocado, hummus, nut butter, or your favourite spread for a delicious and nutritious snack.
9. Mini caprese skewers
Ingredients:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
Thread a cherry tomato, a mini mozzarella ball, and a fresh basil leaf onto a toothpick or small skewer. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Arrange the mini caprese skewers on a plate and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired. This snack is a delightful combination of colors and flavors, perfect for little fingers to enjoy.
10. Banana “ice cream” pops
Ingredients:
- Ripe bananas
- Wooden popsicle sticks
- Toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, etc. (optional)
Instructions:
Peel the ripe bananas and cut them in half. Insert a wooden popsicle stick into each banana half. Optionally, you can roll the bananas in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips for added crunch and flavor. Place the banana “ice cream” pops on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm. These naturally sweet and creamy treats are a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream pops.
Enjoy preparing these 10 healthy snacks at home for your little ones. These delicious and nutrient-packed bites will keep them satisfied, energised, and ready to conquer any adventure that comes their way!
if you wish to prepare the snacks together with the healthy foods, i recommend you to go through another article on 13 healthy foods and ways to enjoy it for this summer!
