These 3 recipes are yummy, nutritious, easy to whip up, and perfect for tiny hands to help with.
We know that keeping your little ones entertained, happy, and healthy can be quite the balancing act. That's why we've put together some delightful and easy recipes for you and your littles. These fun and simple snacks are perfect for tiny hands to help with, and they make for delicious and nutritious treats. Let’s get right into it and dive into some culinary creativity!
Let’s Get Cookin’!
1. Ants on a Log
An oldie but a goodie–this easy snack for kids is a fantastic AND fun way to sneak in some veggies. Here’s how you can make this crunchy, sweet, and savory treat:
Ingredients:
- Celery sticks
- Peanut butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- Raisins
Instructions:
- Wash the celery sticks and cut them into manageable pieces.
- Spread a generous layer of peanut butter (any nut butter or substitution works) into the groove of each celery stick.
- Place raisins on top of the peanut butter to resemble "ants on a log."
Tip:
If your child has a nut allergy, substitute the peanut butter with cream cheese or another spread. It’s just as tasty!
2. Muddy Buddies
This treat is a fun and delicious way to bring a little sweetness into snack time. Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, are a fantastic mix of crunchy, chocolaty, and powdered sugar goodness.
Ingredients:
- 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of peanut butter
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar
Instructions:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter together. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract to the melted mixture.
- Pour the Rice Chex cereal into the bowl and gently stir until all the cereal is coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large plastic bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake until each piece is well coated.
- Spread the Muddy Buddies out on a baking sheet to cool and set. Enjoy!
3. Nut Butter Energy Balls
These little bites of energy are perfect for an on-the-go snack or a quick pick-me-up during the day. This easy recipe for you and your littles is packed with protein and fiber to keep everyone fueled and happy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup of nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, sunflower butter, etc.)
- 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup of ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), mini chocolate chips, ground flaxseed, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Using your hands, roll the chilled mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tip:
Get creative with add-ins! You can mix in dried fruits, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to customize your energy balls! Bonus: Rolling the mixture around is fantastic for fine motor skills and a fun sensory experience!
Your Turn!
We hope these easy and fun recipes bring joy to your kitchen! Additionally, cooking these easy snacks for kids not only creates delicious memories but also teaches them valuable skills and fosters a love for healthy eating. Happy snacking!
For a chance to be featured, share your tasty treats with us on social media using #PlaygroundPressKids. We can't wait to see your creations!