Back-To-School Fuel: 5 Plant-Based Snacks Kids Will Love
The school year is back in full swing, which means backpacks, homework, and hungry kids ready for a snack after pick-up. The right after-school snack can bridge the gap between lunchtime and dinner, keeping energy levels up, moods steady, and little brains focused for homework and activities.
But here’s the challenge: kids want something fun and tasty, while parents want healthy, nourishing options that don’t take forever to prepare. That’s where plant-based snacks save the day — wholesome, colorful, and full of flavor, without the added sugars or processed ingredients.
Here are five easy, kid-approved, plant-based snacks to make back-to-school afternoons a little brighter.
1. Cashew & Date Energy Bites
These naturally sweet, no-bake bites are perfect for when kids come home ravenous. They’re full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep them satisfied until dinner
2. Apple "Nachos"
A fun twist on apples and peanut butter, this recipe turns a classic snack into something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
- 2 crisp apples, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter (warmed slightly so it’s drizzle-able)
- 1 tbsp granola
- 1 tbsp mini dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips or raisins
- 1 tsp unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
Recipe:
- Arrange apple slices on a plate like “nachos.”
- Drizzle with nut butter, then sprinkle on granola, chocolate chips, and coconut.
Bonus: This snack feels like dessert, but it’s full of fiber and healthy fats.
3. Veggie Pinwheel Wraps
These colorful wraps are crunchy, satisfying, and easy for kids to grab on the go before sports or other activities. The veggies in these wraps can easily be swapped and mixed, depending on preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole wheat or spinach tortilla
- 2 tbsp hummus
- ¼ cup thinly sliced carrots
- ¼ cup cucumber sticks
- ¼ cup bell pepper strips
- Handful of spinach leaves
Recipe:
- Spread hummus evenly over the tortilla.
- Layer in veggies, then roll tightly.
- Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Bonus: Kids love the fun shape, and parents love that it sneaks in extra veggies.
4. DIY Trail Mix Cups
Make snack time interactive by letting kids create their own trail mix blend. Pre-portion into small jars or reusable snack bags for quick grabs during the week.
Base Options (choose 2–3):
- Almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds
- Pretzels or popcorn
- Dried cranberries, raisins, or banana chips
- Whole-grain cereal pieces
- A sprinkle of dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips
Recipe:
- Lay out ingredients in small bowls.
- Let kids scoop their favorites into a cup or bag.
Bonus: This snack is a triple threat - an activity for kids, meal prep for the week and it's customizable for picky eaters.
5. Frozen Banana Pops
These refreshing treats feel like ice cream but are made with just fruit and a little chocolate.
Ingredients:
- 2 bananas, cut into halves or thirds
- ½ cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- Toppings: crushed nuts, granola, or sprinkles
Recipe:
- Insert popsicle sticks into bananas and freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil.
- Dip frozen bananas into chocolate, then roll in toppings.
- Freeze again until chocolate sets.
Bonus: These are perfect for hot afternoons in the early fall or a fun weekend snack and activity!
Making Healthy Snacking Fun
Back-to-school season is busy, but snack time doesn't need to be stressful. With a little prep and creativity, you can offer kids wholesome, plant-based options that fuel their bodies and excite their taste buds. Whether it’s a batch of energy bites ready in the fridge or a plate of apple "nachos," these snacks make afternoons something to look forward to. Organic, cold-pressed Living Juices make the perfect complement for these healthy, plant-based snacks - a delicious treat you and the kids will enjoy!
This school year, make snack time simple, nutritious, and fun — because healthy eating habits start one bite at a time.
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