50 Healthy Snacks- Perfect For School Lunches or After School Hunger

Here is a list of healthier snack options for whatever the need be. Whether it’s for you or your children you’ll be sure to find some good snack choices!

1. Sliced Apples With Peanut Butter Or Almond Butter

Apples are rich in fiber which means they are filling! Also a great snack for a child who may have a little constipation. When it comes to peanut butter stick with natural (check the ingrediants) some peanut butters have added sugars which is what you want to avoid. The apple has enough good sugar in it. If you’re not much of a peanut butter person almond butter is another great option that taste great on apple slices.

2. Multigrain Toast With Nutella, sliced strawberries and chia seeds

This is one of our favorites in our home. This makes for a great snack or hearty breakfast. The chia seeds is an added dose of fiber for your little to keep them full longer.

4. Sliced cucumbers; lightly salted

A little salt brings out the flavor. You can also take the cucumbers and serve it with a dip. Or on some avocado toast like the picture above! My kiddos love ranch. Some like to peel the skin I prefer to give them a good scrub and just slice them with the skin on. Most of the nutrients are found in, you guessed it, the skin.

5. Raisins

Some kids like them, some kids don’t. Try it out and see how they react! I forgot all about raisins until my kids came home with them from school. Obviously they weren’t too interested since they came home with them.

6. Pistachios

Yum. A snack I often forget about, but what a great snack! And if you ask me, highly addicting! Refrain from eating strait out of the bag and just put a handful in a bowl or small jar.

7. Beef Jerky

A great school snack for lunch time. Full of protein and something that keep you full until your next meal. There are so many different kinds and types. Beef jerky can be expensive, but if you ask me you get what you pay for when it comes to jerky. If you can afford to pay a little extra for the good stuff it’s worth it.

8. Dates or Prunes

Believe it or not one of my daughters LOVES prunes and dates. I tell her though she can’t too much though, otherwise she’ll have diarrhea. Am I lying?

9. Crackers (look for wheat or multigrain)

There are so many crackers to choose from. Specifically look for multigrain or wheat. Eat them plain or load them up with meat and cheese, peanut butter, hummus, tuna, whatever your little heart desires!

10. String cheese

String cheese is a child favorite. It’s delicious and it’s just fun! Who doesn’t enjoy pulling it apart and dangling it in your mouth like it’s spaghetti. I’m not the only one, right?

11. Almonds

This is great snack for on the go or lunches. Protein and fiber in a little nut. Eat them plain or flavor it up! Have you tried the wasabi and soy sauce ones!? So good!

12. Popcorn (lightly salted or buttered)

People forget about popcorn. As long as it is not saturated in butter and salt then it’s not that bad of a snack. We enjoy the smart food popcorn or just the lightly salted pop secret.

13. Trail mix

This was one of my favorite snacks back in the day. I actually don’t buy this too often because my kids right now will just pick out the m&m’s and leave the rest. Those little stinkers.

14. Yogurt/yogurt parfaits

Eat it plain, make a smoothie, make a parfait, mix it with fruit, granola, we love yogurt!

15. Applesauce

Perfect snack for school lunches. Opt for sugar free if you can. Add a little cinnamon, that’s our favorite.

15. Carrot sticks

Love me some carrot sticks! My kids enjoy dipping them in ranch! I’m always telling them it’s good for your eyes! Which they are! Carrots sticks are a great school lunch snack.

16. Celery sticks

I’m not going to lie, I’ve never really enjoyed celery sticks. But my husband likes them and so does one of my daughters. I know eating them with peanut butter is popular among the cool kids.

17. Chopped up fruit like strawberries, canalope, watermelon

Spice it up a little and add some tajin! If you’ve never tried tajin seasoning you need to try it. Or put a little whip cream on the fruit. Another thing to try is a yogurt dip. Of course eating them plain is good too.

18. Blueberries

“They help you poop.” I’m constantly saying this to convince them to eat their blueberries. My girls usually eat them as it but they are also yummy mixed with chopped strawberries. What a fun idea too to put them in an ice cream cone!

19. Sweet potato chips

When you’re craving something salty and crunch these make a great snack to curve that craving. And I believe this is something your child can get away with taking to school for sure! Store bought or try making them yourself!

20. Veggies straws

Another salt and crunchy snack to satisfy the craving. Light and airy. My kids love these. Preferably the ranch flavor. Usually found in the chip aisle at the grocery store.

21. Pretzels

Such a yummy salty snack. I like to put Nutella on the side for my girls or peanut butter. We also love DOTS highly addicting pretzels or the cheddar flavored ones. So good.

22. Granola

I like to make homemade granola. And my kids typically eat granola like they do cereal. They love when I make granola. I like that I get to control the content. Incredibly filling and great for constipation.

23. Chex Mix

Try making a Chex mix yourself! Get the kids involved! Homemade muddie buddies are so good!

24. Wasabi peas (if you can handle them)

These are so good! Might be more of a snack for you than your kids though. They have kick!

25. Ritz crackers with peanut butter

Another fan favorite. Perfect for on the go and I can count on it to fill my kids stomach. Make them yourself or let your child do it. Make it into a fun activity.

26. Grapes

Red or green. Which do you prefer? I know some parents like to put the grapes in the freezer. They say it taste like candy. You be the judge!

27. Avocados slices with everything bagel seasoning or soy sauce

So simple. So delicious. You don’t even need bread. Soy sauce also taste great. My two year old loves avocado slices with a little bit of soy sauce. Try it out !

28. Dried fruit such as mangos

Yum! Can’t get enough of dried mango! Perfect for snack time, lunches, or even car rides!

29. Smoothies

My go-to when I want to get some veggies in my kids. I also tend to sneak spinach in their somewhere and they don’t even notice. Or what I also love to throw in is avocado. It’s creates such a creamy texture. It’s delicious.

30. Banana chips

Buy them or make them yourself! I’ve never made them, but they can’t be that hard right? Right????

31. Peanut butter on a spoon

Sometimes you just gotta keep it simple. My kids love peanut butter on a spoon and I did as well when I was a kid.

32. Frozen banana pops

Break a banana in half, insert popsicle sticks, and freeze! If you really want to get creative you can dip in peanut butter or chocolate.

33. Oatmeal

I never considered oatmeal a snack but I guess it could be! My girls love strawberry and banana flavored oatmeal.

34. Hard boiled eggs

Have you ever had a hard boiled egg with everything bagel seasoning! This snack is full of protein and fun for the kids. What I mean by fun is kids enjoy picking the hard shell off. Snack time meet sensory activity. Win win lol!

3 Steps To A Perfect Hard Boiled Egg

35. Lunch meat

Lunch meat once was one of my favorite snacks. I use to love bologna. Although being older I don’t eat it now I do enjoy turkey or ham and my kids do too. I’ll cut it in strips and let them eat it as is. They seem to enjoy it.

36. Pickles

What’s funny about pickles is I couldn’t stand them before but once I became pregnant I grew a love for them. I love pickles now. Strange right? Pickles don’t have to be just a snack you get at Disneyland!

37. Energy balls

Energy balls consist of oats, peanut butter, honey, flax seed, coconut, chocolate chips, all rolled up into a ball! NO BAKE Coconut Almond Oatmeal Bites

38. Hummus dip with crackers or veggies

There are so many different types of hummus dips you’ll be sure to find one your kiddo likes. Serve it them with some grainy crackers and fresh veggies.

39. Peanut butter and banana quesadillas

You know, I’ve never tried this. But I keep hearing good things. I need to make this!

40. Half of a Peanut butter and jelly sandwich

Make your child a full sandwich. Cut in half. Pack one for school and the other half can be eaten after school. No food wasted.

41. Olives

My husband loves to snack on olives. I personally can’t eat them plain. On pizza, sure! A pasta? Yum!

42.Frozen fruit pops (check the sugar content)

So many different types of fruit pops. I think this would be a great after school treat. Save it for Friday’s!

43. Edamane

Typically we only eat these when we go out for sushi. But this is a great healthy snack to eat after school or whenever!

44. Baby Bell peppers with dip

45. Multi grain bread toasted with some unsalted butter (a little sugar and cinnamon – optional) and some sliced bananas

46. Cottage cheese

Honestly, I don’t eat cottage cheese. It’s the smell or texture….I just can’t. However my husband enjoys this and I know many others do as well which is why it’s on the list. I think many people eat it with fruit preserves.

47. Tuna Melts

This was my ultimate favorite childhood snack. Tuna, cheddar cheese, and tomato! So good!

48. Fig bars

Filling, delicious, full of fiber, a great snack that doesn’t make much of a mess either. Score!

49. Kiwi

When I was in grade school there was a girl who alway brought kiwi to school. I thought it was so pretty, the vibrant green. But my mom never got kiwi I have no idea why. Kiwi is so delicious! My girl love them! Eat them with a spoon, squeeze the fruit out, or slice it up.

50. Pretzel nuggets filled with peanut butter

I forgot about these! The little pretzel nuggets are a fan favorite! These are great for the lunch boxes or a snack after school.

If you have another healthy snack in mind please comment and let us know!

Simple Breakfast Tacos

Simple Breakfast Tacos

What You Need:

6 eggs

1 1/2 tablespoons of milk (eye it)

6 pieces of chopped up ham or turkey lunch meat

1/4 or 1/2 diced jalapeño (depending on your heat level)

1/4 of a purple onion diced (more or less)

A spoonful of jarred minced garlic

2 times around the pan of olive oil (about 2 tablespoons)

1 large avocado sliced

A couple of dashes of your favorite hot sauce

Salt, pepper, and oregano

Steps:

1. Whisk together your eggs, milk, and season with salt, pepper and a little bit of oregano.

2. Coat your pan with the olive oil and add the garlic. Then add your jalapeño, onion, and turkey or ham. Sauté until soft and a little brown. (You can also raise the heat to give it a little crisp)

3. Add egg mixture to veggies and meat and let the magic happen. Scramble as you would with basic scrambled eggs.

4. Serve on heated corn tortillas with sliced avocado, topped with hot sauce.

Delish!

A visual of how much I used of onion, jalapeño, and meat.
6 eggs, milk, salt and pepper
Heated tortillas on the pan
Hot sauce is a must!

Enjoy! Happy breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner!

Banana Cream Cheese Muffins or Bread

This recipe can be used to make a banana bread loaf or banana bread muffins! If you choose to make banana bread instead of the muffins I would suggest sprinkling a little brown sugar right on top before baking! It provides a sweet crusty top!

Enjoy!

What you will need:

2 to 3 very ripe bananas

1 8oz package of cream cheese

1/2 cup of unsalted melted butter

3/4 to 1 cup of sugar

A pinch of salt

1 teaspoon of baking soda

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups of flour

1 beaten egg

Brown sugar for sprinkling on top before baking (optional)

Steps:

1. In a medium bowl mix together with an electric mixer the bananas, cream cheese, and melted butter.

2. Next add the sugar, salt, and baking soda.

3, Then add vanilla extract and the beaten egg.

4. Last, add your flour and mix well.

5. What you want to do now is butter your muffins tins and pour batter into the tins. Distributing equally. (If making banana bread loaf sprinkle a little brown sugar and pat into bread *optional*)

6. Place in oven at 350 for 12-15 mins. Oven time may vary. Be sure to check on them. They are done when the tops are little golden.

*if baking a banana bread loaf bake at 350 for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick or butterknife comes out clean*

Serve warm with butter! So good!

Breakfast Zucchini Bread

This bread is easy to make and super tasty. A yummy quick breakfast treat, but hey, if you want to have this for lunch or dinner I won’t judge!

Is best served warmed up with unsalted butter! Enjoy!

Breakfast Zucchini Bread

(This is called ‘Breakfast Zucchini Bread’ because it’s best to make in the evening and allow to sit overnight.)

Makes one small 8 x 4 loaf

Bake at 350 for 50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

What You Need:

1 large zucchini or 2 small ones finely shredded

1 beaten egg

1 1/2 cups of flour

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon plus a sprinkle of nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup of sugar

1/4 cup of vegetable oil

Steps:

1. In one small bowl whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda.

2. In a separate medium/large size bowl mix the beaten egg, sugar, vegetable oil, and shredded zucchini with an electric mixer.

3. Begin adding the dry ingredients (the flour and spices) to the wet ingredients (the egg and oil) slowly till batter is consistent.

4. Generously butter up the loaf pan and pour batter into pan. Bake at 350 for 50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

5. When bread is complete, allow to cool completely. Cover and let it sit overnight.

And then, enjoy for breakfast!

Mix all the dry ingredients in separate bowl.
Then, mix your wet ingredients.
Combine flour mixture and zucchini mixture together and bake at 350.

Saturday Morning French Toast

What You Need:

1 loaf of French bread (Vienna bread is tasty with this recipe as well) cut in 1/2 inch slices

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons of sugar

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

4 beaten eggs

Cinnamon sugar spice, fresh fruit, and pure maple syrup for finishing – OPTIONAL (but truthfully, makes a huge difference!)

Steps:

1. Heat skillet to medium-high heat.

2. In a shallow bowl combine beaten eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract and sugar. Dip bread slices into egg mixture and allow a few moments to absorb the mixture on both sides of each slice.

3. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter on a hot skillet and begin your first batch of bread slices. 2-3 minutes on each slice of bread until golden.

4. Repeat step 3 with remaining butter and bread slices.

While warm spread softened butter on French toast. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar and serve with pure maple syrup and fresh fruit.

Enjoy!

3 Steps To A Perfect Hard Boiled Egg

What came first, the chicken or the egg?

3 Steps To A Perfect Hard Boiled Egg

Step 1: Fill a small to medium size pot of water, then, place desired amount of eggs into water. Turn stove top to medium high (to about a 7 or 8 on stove)

Step 2: When water comes to a rolling boil, turn heat down to medium (About a 5 or 4). You want to keep the rolling boil going but you don’t want it to be an aggressive boil. Set timer for 18 minutes.

Step 3: Once the timer goes off remove pot from stove immediately and place eggs into an ice bath (a bowl of water with ice). Let sit for about 5 to 10 minutes.

After removing from ice bath, cut in half, and your eggs should look like this.

PERFECT AND DELICIOUS.

That’s it!! Place in fridge to enjoy later or eat right away.

Blueberry Muffins With Oatmeal Streusel Topping

Pair this muffin with a cup of coffee or make some for your friends & family!

Blueberry Muffins With Oatmeal Streusel Topping

Oven: 400 Makes: 12 muffins Bake: 15-18 mins oven time varies

Insert toothpick and when it comes out clean then it’s complete

What You Need For Muffins:

1 3/4 cups of flour

1 1/4 cup of sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 beaten egg

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup of milk

1/4 cup of vegetable oil

3/4 cup fresh blueberries

What You Need For Oatmeal Streusel Topping:

3 tablespoons of brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon

A dash of nutmeg (optional)

2 tablespoons of butter

3-5 tablespoons of rolled oats (if you don’t want to use oats you can use flour)

Steps For Muffins:

1. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder in large mixing bowl. In another small mixing bowl combine beaten egg, milk, and oil.

2. Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and then add egg mixture. Mix until completely combined. Then add fresh blueberries to mixture.

3. Spoon batter into muffin tins, then sprinkle streusel topping on muffins. Bake at 400 for 15 to 18 mins.

Serve with softened butter. Absolutely delish.

Steps For Oatmeal Streusel Topping:

Combine the oatmeal, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl. Add butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle onto muffins before baking.

Enjoy!

4 Ingredient Baked Pop-Tarts

Easy, yummy, and quick!

Once you figure out how easy this is the possibilities are endless!

I’m so excited to try more flavors and to really get creative!

Let’s just get to it shall we.

All You Need Is (for this specific pop-tart)

• premade pie crust

• smuckers natural strawberry fruit spread

• The egg white of ONE egg (all you do is brush this over the pastry before popping into the oven)

• Cookie Icing

(Sprinkles optional)


Maybe one of these days I’ll try making these with homemade dough and icing but I don’t have time! Do you!? This method of using store bought and pre-made makes this super easy, especially with your kids!

This is something fun then can make by themselves too! With adult supervision with the oven of course.


4 Ingredient Baked Pop-Tarts with pictures

Steps:

Step 1. Follow steps on the pre-made dough, on the box of dough I bought it said to roll out and let rise for 20 mins.)

– once dough is ready, cut out the size of rectangles you want and as many as you want (doesn’t need to be perfect).

– in this picture there are 6 rectangles which will make 3 pop -tarts.

Step 2:

Put a dollop amount of strawberry spread onto the rectangles. However many you are making you want to make sure each rectangle has a plain one to go on top.

Step 3.

Place a plain rectangle of dough onto each rectangle with strawberry spread. And seal each pastry with a fork. Poke some holes on top with a toothpick.

Brush egg white wash all over the pastries. (whisk egg white a little before brushing)

(I made these with my girls so they aren’t the prettiest but I’m sure if you have time you can do a nicer job!)

Step 5.

Bake at 400 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes (oven time may vary) allow to cool

Step 6.

Add cookie icing and sprinkles!

Enjoy! See, simple!

Now go get creative and Wild with this!!!

Coconut Almond Chia Seed Pudding

Talk about creamy, light, and refreshing! Especially when you add fresh fruit!

I love this flavor because it’s not overly sweet but it’s satisfying enough when you want to indulge in something sweet.

Especially if you’re trying to limit your intake on the super sugary stuff.

The coconut milk is what provides that creamy texture while the almond extract supplies the flavor.

Hope you enjoy it!


Coconut Almond Chia Seed Pudding

Servings: 4-6

What you need:

  • 2 cups Coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup Chia seeds
  • 1/2 tsp Almond extract
  • 1 Tbsp Honey

(Side note: a can of coconut milk is only 1 and 1/3 cup so if don’t feel like opening a new can of coconut milk just add regular milk. As long as it equals 2 cups)

Steps:

  1. Mix all ingredients into a bowl
  1. Store chia mix into an airtight container and allow the pudding to sit overnight
  1. Serve with fresh fruit

Enjoy!

NO BAKE Coconut Almond Oatmeal Bites

This is the perfect pick me up snack!

Full of energy, protein, and it’s enough when you’re craving something sweet but you want something healthy!

Husband and kid approved and extremely easy to make!

(This is also something very fun to make with your kids! They will enjoy being involved and helping you in the kitchen!)



NO BAKE Coconut Almond Oatmeal Bites

Makes 12 Bites

What you need:

1 cup dry oatmeal

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1 tsp of almond extract

2/3 cup coconut flakes

1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter

1/3 cup honey

Optional – you can add chia seeds, ground flaxseed, or protein powder

Steps:

– Combine ALL ingredients in a medium sized bowl and mix with hands till throughly mixed.

– store in fridge for 1 hour

– roll into small/medium balls

– store in container and keep in fridge

Enjoy!