Healthy Summer Snacks For Kids
Healthy Summer Snacks For Kids was born out of one too many “I’m huuungry!” complaints I hear and see from kids between lunch and dinner!
As the days got longer and hotter, I realized just how often kids reach for sugary treats or processed snacks during summer break. And honestly, I can’t blame them. Cool and colorful snacks are part of the season’s charm! But I wanted to find a way to keep the fun while sneaking in a bit more nutrition.
That’s how this little list of better-for-you summer bites came to life: they’re simple, tasty, and made with ingredients you’ll actually feel good about serving. Whether you’re packing for a park day or just need something quick after swimming, these healthy summer snacks will keep kids happy and fueled for more adventures!
Blueberry Coconut Bliss Balls
These vibrant bliss balls burst with the natural sweetness of blueberries and the tropical flair of coconut, making them a fantastic choice for kids who love fruity flavors. Perfect for tossing into a lunchbox or enjoying during a summer picnic, they’re a no-bake, nutrient-packed treat that keeps kids energized for outdoor fun. Be mindful to pulse the mixture evenly in a food processor to achieve that perfect, chewy texture.
3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Fruit Ice Cream
This creamy, protein-rich ice cream is a genius way to sneak in nutrition while delighting kids with its bright, fruity taste. It’s ideal for hot summer afternoons when you want a quick, cooling dessert that’s ready after a short freeze. Parents will love how the honey balances the cottage cheese’s tang, creating a guilt-free indulgence for the whole family.
Healthy Chocolate Coconut Bites
Crafted for chocolate lovers, these no-bake bites blend rich cocoa with coconut for a decadent yet wholesome snack. They’re a lifesaver for busy parents, as they whip up in minutes and store well for grab-and-go moments. Kids will adore the fudgy texture, but watch the cocoa powder quantity to keep the flavor kid-friendly and not too bitter.
2-Ingredient Baked Onion and Cheese Chips
These crispy, savory chips are a surprising hit with kids who crave something crunchy and cheesy during summer movie nights. The simple combo of onion and cheese transforms into a keto-friendly snack that’s addictive yet healthy. Be cautious with baking time to avoid burning, as the onions can brown quickly.
Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
These oatmeal-based cookies sneak in whole grains while delivering the classic chocolate chip cookie experience kids adore. They’re perfect for summer bake sales or as a festive treat during family gatherings, with a wholesome twist that parents appreciate. Ensure the dough isn’t overmixed to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
Strawberry-Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark
This is my favorite way to make yogurt feel like a treat. The combo of sweet strawberries and mini chocolate chips with creamy Greek yogurt makes every bite feel like dessert—without the sugar crash. I love keeping a batch in the freezer for hot afternoons!
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How to Make Mango Fruit Leather (Without a Dehydrator!)
I’ve always loved fruit roll-ups as a kid, so this homemade mango version feels like a nostalgic upgrade. It’s just pure ripe mango, maybe a dash of chipotle salt if you’re feeling fancy, and it’s so easy to make. No dehydrator needed—just sunshine and patience.
Frozen Chocolate Covered Banana Bites
These Frozen Chocolate Covered Banana Bites are a go-to in my kitchen when I want something cold, sweet, and a little indulgent. I let the kids pick their toppings—pretzels, peanut butter, sea salt—and it’s always fun seeing what they come up with. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to store and snack on!
No-Churn Watermelon Ice Cream
This No-Churn Watermelon Ice Cream recipe screams summer. It’s creamy, fruity, and refreshing with that perfect balance of watermelon and citrus from the lemon juice. I like to top mine with fresh mint for a little extra pop!
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Grilled Fruit Kabobs
Grilling fruit is such a simple way to bring out their natural sweetness. I thread pineapple, cantaloupe, and strawberries on sticks, brush them with maple syrup, and let the grill do its magic. We love dipping them in vanilla Greek yogurt—it’s such a hit!
Brandy Snaps Baskets with Strawberries and Cream
These crispy little baskets are so fancy-looking but surprisingly fun to make. I fill them with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a light, sweet snack that feels a bit special. My favorite part is the delicate ginger kick from the brandy snaps!
Healthy Blender Raspberry Ice Cream
Healthy Blender Raspberry Ice Cream is a total lifesaver when the kids want ice cream but I want something with a little more nutrition. The frozen raspberries and bananas make it super creamy, and the honey gives just the right touch of sweetness. I always keep a stash of frozen fruit on hand just for this.
Beach Day Pudding Cups Summer Snack Recipe
These pudding cups are such a fun summer activity and snack rolled into one. I love how each layer feels like building a tiny beach scene—with blue pudding “water,” crushed cookies for sand, and little gummy swimmers. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at pool parties!
Cucumber Boat Shaped Snack for Kids
These cucumber boats are the cutest way to get kids into veggies. I hollow them out and fill them with veggie dip, then use carrots, cheese, and peppers as the “passengers.” Lifesaver gummies as floaties? I’m in!
Homemade Fruit Snacks
I’ll be honest, I didn’t think homemade fruit snacks would be this easy—or this good! Using real fruit and juice makes a huge difference in flavor, and I love that I can sneak in a bit of veggie without anyone noticing. The kids are always surprised when I tell them it’s homemade.
Strawberry Watermelon Popsicles
Strawberry and watermelon is one of my favorite summer combos. These popsicles are so refreshing and only need a splash of lemon to make the flavors pop. I make a big batch and let the kids help pour them into the molds—easy and fun!
Peanut Butter Popcorn Bars
Popcorn, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness? Yes, please. These bars are chewy, crunchy, and perfect for days when everyone’s craving a treat that doesn’t feel too heavy! I like to wrap them up for road trips or keep a stash in the fridge for quick snack attacks!
How to Make Healthy Homemade Jello
This Healthy Homemade Jello is my new go-to when I want to skip the boxed stuff. With just juice, honey, and unflavored gelatin, it’s ridiculously easy and tastes way more real than the store-bought kind. I like using different juice flavors to keep things interesting!
Campfire Strawberries
Campfire Strawberries are messy, sticky, and so worth it. Dip fresh strawberries in marshmallow fluff and roast them over a flame—hello, gooey perfection. It’s like s’mores without the graham cracker! I usually bring them out as a backyard “dessert activity” and they’re always a hit.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Tacos
PB&J, but make it fun! I flatten a slice of bread into a little taco shell and fill it with peanut butter, jam, and fresh fruit. It’s such a simple twist, but the kids totally love it. These make lunch or snack time way more exciting with almost no extra effort!
Apple Slice Cookies
These are a favorite in my house because they’re sweet, crunchy, and endlessly customizable. I spread peanut butter on apple slices and let everyone add their own toppings—coconut, nuts, mini chocolate chips, you name it. It’s basically a build-your-own snack cookie!
S’more Pops
S’mores on a stick? Love it! These are perfect for little hands and way less messy than traditional campfire s’mores—just marshmallows dipped in chocolate and rolled in crushed graham crackers. I love making them ahead for summer sleepovers or movie nights.
So much love and appreciation to the original creators of these healthy summer snacks for kids! I’m 100% sure that both kids and parents are going to like this one!
