The “after-school snack” is a weekday tradition for many families, and with school starting up again, it can be difficult to come up with ideas to curb those post-school hunger pains. And even more so when food allergies are involved! Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, or working full time, we’ve got a list of the perfect after-school snacks, from DIY dazzlers to on-the-go solutions from Enjoy Life Foods.
Got some time on your hands? Surprise your kids with these delectable DIY snacks when they get off the bus:
1. Mini Cookie Dunkers
Dunk, dunk, yum! Enjoy Life Mini Cookies are perfect vessels for this delicious dairy-free vanilla buttercream dip that’s convenient to pack in a lunchbox or enjoy after school.
2. Mini Chocolate Strawberry Skewers
Sometimes it’s the presentation that makes all the difference. Take these adorable snack kabobs for example! What hungry kid would oppose a combination of soft-baked cookies and antioxidant-rich berries? We predict very few. For this recipe, alternate Enjoy Life Double Chocolate Brownie cookies with fresh strawberries. You could also mix it up with Protein Bites, Soft Baked Cookies, or a sliced Chewy Bar.
3. Chocolate Marshmallow Grain-ola
Packed with plant-based protein, a Chocolate Marshmallow Grain & Seed Bar can be transformed into a delicious gluten-free granola with vegan chocolate and gluten-free cereal flakes!
4. Back-to-School Brain Food
Nothing says “school snack” like a fun trail mix. Chop up your favorite Enjoy Life Chewy Bar (we’re fond of the carrot cake flavor!) and mix with a bag of Seed & Fruit Mix and gluten-free cereal for a nut-free treat.
5. Lentil Chips & Dip
If your student prefers a more savory snack, Enjoy Life’s gluten-free lentil chips will hit the spot. Pair one of five delicious flavors with hummus, guacamole or vegan ranch dressing next time you need a snack packed with flavor!
On a time crunch?
If you don’t have time to prepare anything ahead of time, no sweat! So many Enjoy Life products are perfectly packaged into single-serve portions that taste great as-is, or with an effortless twist. Try the following:
Bank on bars: Stick a Chewy Bar or Grain & Seed Bar in your child’s backpack for a mid-day bite, or pair one with a delicious dip or spread (hello sunflower seed butter, melted chocolate or homemade jam!) for an easy, no-fuss snack.
Make a mini cookie jar: Instead of storing dozens of unwrapped cookies in a jar, opt for this grab-and-go option. Stock your jar with pre-portioned cookie packets your kiddos can easily grab when they get home. Not a fan of cookies before dinner? Swap them out for Enjoy Life Snack Packs or any of the bars mentioned above.
Create combo snacks: Convenient snacks don’t have to be boring. When your kid is craving something a little extra, simply add any of the aforementioned suggestions to something else! Some ideas include topping your child’s favorite yogurt with dairy-free mini chocolate chips. You can also crumble up nutritious gluten-free snack bars for a granola substitute.
Feeling inspired? We hope these ideas help you figure out how you can up the after-school snack game for your kids. If you have any of your own after-school snack hacks, be sure to share them on social media and tag @vitacost and @enjoylifefoods #eatfreely!
