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17 After-School Snacks Kids Love (And Take 5 Minutes to Make)

17 After-School Snacks Kids Love (And Take 5 Minutes to Make)

After a long day at school, kids often come home hungry and eager for a quick bite. Here are ten delightful snacks you can whip up in five minutes, satisfying their hunger and taste buds.

1. Apple Nachos

Apple Nachos
© The Simple Veganista

Transform a regular apple into a delightful treat with just a few ingredients. Arrange thin apple slices on a plate like nachos, then drizzle with peanut butter. Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for sweetness.

A dash of chopped nuts adds a crunchy texture, making this snack both nutritious and fun. Apples provide fiber and vitamins, while the toppings ensure it’s a hit with kids.

Quick to prepare and visually appealing, apple nachos are perfect for those post-school hunger pangs. Try adding a touch of cinnamon for an extra flavor kick.

2. Banana Sushi

Banana Sushi
© Made It. Ate It. Loved It.

Ever thought bananas could be sushi? Spread peanut butter over a banana, then roll it in crushed cereal or granola for an interesting twist.

Slice into bite-sized pieces, and voilà! This snack combines the creaminess of bananas with the crunchy texture of cereal. Not only is it a delightful treat, but it’s also packed with energy.

Banana sushi offers a playful take on a classic snack, making it an adventurous choice for little ones. Feel free to swap peanut butter for almond butter for a different flavor.

3. Yogurt Parfait

Yogurt Parfait
© Don’t Waste the Crumbs

Layered elegance in a cup! Start with yogurt as the base, then add a layer of crunchy granola. Top it off with fresh berries for a pop of color.

This snack is not only visually appealing but also a nutritious option that kids will love. The combination of textures – creamy, crunchy, and juicy – makes every bite exciting.

Yogurt parfaits are customizable. Add honey for sweetness or explore different fruit combinations. It’s a snack that can be as varied as a child’s imagination.

4. Cheese Quesadilla

Cheese Quesadilla
© Kids Activity Zone

A classic favorite with a cheesy twist! Simply place shredded cheese between two tortillas, then toast until golden brown.

Cut into triangles for easy handling, and serve with salsa for dipping. The melted cheese makes it irresistible, while the crispiness adds a satisfying crunch.

Perfectly customizable, you can add ingredients like beans or chopped peppers. This quick and tasty snack is a sure way to bring a smile to any child’s face.

5. Peanut Butter Toast

Peanut Butter Toast
© Ahead of Thyme

A wholesome twist on classic toast! Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over whole-grain bread, then top with banana slices.

Sprinkle chia seeds for a nutritional boost, adding fiber and omega-3s. The combination of flavors and textures makes it both delicious and filling.

This snack is versatile, with endless topping possibilities. Try berries or a drizzle of honey for different tastes. In less than five minutes, you’ll have a nutritious snack ready to enjoy.

6. Veggie Sticks with Hummus

Veggie Sticks with Hummus
© Healthy By Fork

Bright and colorful, veggie sticks with hummus offer a balanced snack. Slice up carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a vibrant array.

Serve with a side of creamy hummus for dipping. This combination is not only healthy but also fun to eat, encouraging kids to enjoy their veggies.

Packed with vitamins and fiber, this snack is a hit for both parents and children. The variety of colors and textures makes it visually appealing and delicious.

7. Mini Pita Pizzas

Mini Pita Pizzas
© Peas and Crayons

Transform mini pita bread into delightful pizzas with tomato sauce and cheese. Add pepperoni or veggies to cater to different tastes.

Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating a savory snack that’s hard to resist. The pita base ensures a soft, chewy texture.

Mini pita pizzas are customizable, allowing kids to create their version. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and fun in just a few minutes.

8. Fruit Kabobs

Fruit Kabobs
© I Heart Naptime

Turn fresh fruit into an exciting treat with fruit kabobs. Skewer pieces like strawberries, melon, and grapes for a vibrant display.

These kabobs offer a rainbow of colors, enticing kids to explore different flavors. Serve with a yogurt dip for added fun.

Fruit kabobs are not only healthy but also engaging, encouraging creativity. They’re an interactive way for kids to enjoy their daily fruit intake.

9. Popcorn Trail Mix

Popcorn Trail Mix
© The Healthy Epicurean

Mix up some magic with popcorn trail mix! Combine popcorn with pretzels, chocolate chips, and dried fruits for a tasty blend.

This snack offers a mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy, appealing to various taste buds. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for munching.

Portable and fun, popcorn trail mix can be customized with nuts or seeds. It’s an adventurous snack that keeps kids coming back for more.

10. Ants on a Log

Ants on a Log
© Healthy Happy Life

Playful and healthy, ants on a log is a favorite snack among kids. Fill celery sticks with peanut butter and top with raisins.

The name itself sparks curiosity, making it a delightful choice. This combination of crunchy, sweet, and creamy is both nourishing and fun.

With room for creativity, you can swap raisins for cranberries or use almond butter. This snack is as versatile as it is tasty, satisfying both young appetites and imaginations.

11. Cracker Stackers

Cracker Stackers
© Mrs Happy Homemaker

Imagine a tower of flavors that makes snack time exciting. Cracker Stackers are all about creativity and choice.

Layer your favorite crackers with sliced ham, cheese, and cucumbers. Each bite is a delightful combination of crunchy, savory, and fresh.

Kids can build their own stackers, making it a fun and interactive experience. The best part? They can mix and match to create new flavors every time!

12. Smoothie Pops

Smoothie Pops
© Home & Plate

Transform a simple smoothie into a frozen treat with Smoothie Pops. Blend your child’s favorite fruits with yogurt or milk.

Pour the mixture into molds and freeze them. Although it takes longer to freeze, the prep is quick and fun.

These pops are not only refreshing but also a sneaky way to get some extra fruit into their diet! Plus, they’re perfect for cooling down after playtime.

13. Nutty Rice Cakes

Nutty Rice Cakes
© Publix Delivery

Elevate the humble rice cake with Nutty Rice Cakes. Spread almond or peanut butter over a rice cake, and top with banana slices.

A drizzle of honey adds a sweet touch that kids adore. The combination of textures is both satisfying and energizing.

It’s a wholesome snack that delivers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and natural sweetness, perfect for after-school hunger pangs.

14. Cheesy Breadsticks

Cheesy Breadsticks
© Valerie’s Kitchen

Warm, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, Cheesy Breadsticks make snack time feel special. Use pre-made breadstick dough and sprinkle with cheese.

Bake for a few minutes until golden brown. The aroma alone will have kids flocking to the kitchen.

These breadsticks are a comforting treat that pairs well with any dip like marinara, making them a versatile option for snack time.

15. Berry Yogurt Bark

Berry Yogurt Bark
© The Roasted Root

Satisfy sweet cravings with Berry Yogurt Bark. Spread yogurt on a baking sheet, then sprinkle with fresh berries and granola.

Freeze until firm, then break into pieces. It’s a delightful fusion of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures.

This fun-to-eat, refreshing snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a parent-approved choice.

16. Avocado Toast Bites

Avocado Toast Bites
© Pinch Me Good

Mini Avocado Toast Bites bring a gourmet touch to snack time. Smash ripe avocado onto toast pieces and top with cherry tomato halves.

A sprinkle of seeds adds a crunchy finish. These bites are not just trendy but also packed with healthy fats.

Kids will love their vibrant colors and rich, creamy taste, offering a satisfying snack that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

17. Honey Nut Cereal Mix

Honey Nut Cereal Mix
© A Paige of Positivity

For a sweet and salty crunch, try Honey Nut Cereal Mix. Combine honey nut cereal with pretzels, raisins, and a few chocolate chips.

Shake them together in a bowl for a quick, no-cook treat. Each handful is a burst of flavors and textures.

This snack is perfect for kids who love a bit of everything, and it’s easy to customize with their favorite mix-ins.