Quick & Easy Plant-Based Snack Ideas for Kids

Whether you’re basking in the warmth of the Southern Hemisphere's summer holidays or settling into a back-to-school routine in the Northern Hemisphere, we all need snack ideas that are quick, healthy, and loved by the little ones. These plant-based snacks are perfect for busy days and will keep your kids energized and satisfied, all while supporting their growing bodies with nutrient-packed ingredients.

Here are a few go-to plant-based, kid-friendly snack ideas that are not only delicious but easy to make!

1. Apple Nachos with Nut Butter and Granola

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, cored and sliced thinly

• 2 tbsp almond or peanut butter

• 2 tbsp granola (your favorite variety)

• A drizzle of maple syrup (optional)

• A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Arrange the thin apple slices on a plate.

2. Drizzle with almond or peanut butter.

3. Top with granola, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost!

4. Serve immediately and watch your kids enjoy this fun twist on nachos!

2. Mini Veggie Wraps

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat or spinach tortillas

• Hummus

• Shredded carrots

• Cucumber slices

• Fresh spinach or lettuce

• Avocado, sliced

• A squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Spread a thin layer of hummus over the tortilla.

2. Layer on the shredded carrots, cucumber slices, spinach, and avocado.

3. Squeeze a little lemon juice for freshness.

4. Roll up the tortilla and cut it into mini bite-sized pieces, perfect for little hands!

3. Banana & Chia Pudding Parfaits

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, sliced

• 1 cup coconut milk or almond milk

• 2 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp maple syrup or agave (optional)

• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions:

1. In a jar or bowl, mix the coconut milk, chia seeds, and maple syrup. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to thicken into a pudding consistency.

2. In a small cup or jar, layer banana slices and chia pudding.

3. Top with fresh berries or more banana slices for a fun and nutritious parfait!

4. Peanut Butter & Banana Smoothie Popsicles

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana

• 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter

• 1/2 cup almond milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blend the banana, peanut butter, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup together until smooth.

2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.

3. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Pop them out of the molds and enjoy a cooling, plant-based treat perfect for warm days.

5. Crispy Chickpea Snacks

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel.

3. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.

4. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until golden and crispy.

6. Let cool and serve as a crunchy, high-protein snack.

6. Sweet Potato Fries with Avocado Dip

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 ripe avocado

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• A pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss the sweet potato fries in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet.

3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

4. While the fries bake, mash the avocado with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of garlic powder for the dip.

5. Serve the sweet potato fries with the creamy avocado dip on the side for a nutritious, crunchy snack!

7. Frozen Yogurt Bark with Fruit and Nuts

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dairy-free yogurt (coconut, almond, or soy)

• 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)

• 1 tbsp coconut flakes (optional)

• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread the dairy-free yogurt evenly on the sheet to form a thin layer.

3. Top with mixed berries, chopped nuts, and coconut flakes.

4. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.

5. Freeze for 2-3 hours, or until firm.

6. Break into pieces and serve as a refreshing and sweet snack that’s full of vitamins and healthy fats!