Getting kids to eat healthy snacks can sometimes be challenging. Finding nutritious options that kids will actually enjoy isn’t always easy. The good news is that healthy snacking doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few creative tricks and simple ingredients, parents can create snacks that are fun, delicious, and nourishing for kids of all ages! Check out these kid-friendly snack hacks, curated by Logan, our Nutrition and Health Programs Manager!
Baked Cinnamon Pear Chips
Ingredients:
- 2-3 ripe pears
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sugar
- Lemon juice to prevent browning
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 225°F.
- Wash the pears and slice very thinly and brush with lemon juice.
- Lay the pear slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, flip, and do the same on that side.
- Bake for 1.5-2 hours. They are done when the edges are crisp and centers are mostly dry.
Veggie Stars and Ranch
Ingredients:
- 1 Cucumber
- 1 Wide Bulk Carrot
- Ranch dressing, or other dip
Directions:
- Slice the carrot and the cucumber into thin slices.
- Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut the veggie slices into star shapes. Serve with ranch, or a favorite dip!
Ants on a Log
Ingredients:
- 5 stalks celery
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup raisins
Directions:
- Cut the celery stalks in half.
- Spread with peanut butter.
- Sprinkle with raisins.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
- ½ cup oats
- ½ cup milk
- 1 Tbsp strawberry jam
- 1 Tbsp peanut butter
- ¼ cup strawberries
- 2 Tbsp crushed peanuts
Directions:
- Place all ingredients into a large glass container and mix until combined.
- Cover the glass container with a lid or plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. Toppings can be added the night before or immediately before serving.
- Uncover and enjoy from the glass container the next day. Thin with a little more milk or water, if desired.
Whether you’re packing lunches, preparing after-school treats, or looking for quick bites on busy days, these simple recipes can help bring healthier snacks into your household. We hope you get the opportunity to try these snack hacks and that your little ones love them!
