Preparing healthy and unique after-school snacks can help energize and satisfy your kids. These snacks can be prepped on Sunday night, so you have delicious, nutritious options ready to go throughout the week. Below are five recipes, including a few more creative takes on classic snacks.

Greek Yogurt Parfaits

Ingredients:

2 cups plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup granola
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 tablespoons honey (optional)

Instructions:

In small containers, layer Greek yogurt, granola, and mixed berries.
Drizzle honey on top if desired.
Seal the containers and refrigerate for up to five days.
These parfaits are a great source of protein and antioxidants.

Peanut Butter & Banana Roll-Ups

Ingredients:

4 whole wheat tortillas
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 bananas, sliced
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

Spread peanut butter evenly over each tortilla.
Add banana slices in a single layer.
Drizzle honey over the bananas if desired.
Tightly roll up the tortillas and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Ingredients:

2 ripe avocados
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Scoop the contents from the avocado into a food processor.
Add cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Portion into small containers and refrigerate for up to three days.
This rich and creamy pudding offers a healthy dose of healthy fats and fiber, perfect for a guilt-free sweet treat.

Savory Parmesan Kale Chips

Ingredients:

1 bunch of kale, remove stems and tear leaves into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Toss kale pieces with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Spread the kale on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are crispy but not burnt.
Cool the chips, then store them in an airtight container for up to four days. These chips are a savory, crunchy snack that’s packed with nutrients.

Coconut Date Energy Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

In a food processor, pulse the dates until they form a sticky paste.
Add coconut, oats, almond butter, and chia seeds, and pulse until well combined.
Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. These energy bites are a perfect on-the-go snack, offering a balanced mix of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.

Local Ice Cream Shops for a Sweet Treat

If you’re looking to reward your child for a job well done—or want to enjoy a special treat together—consider visiting one of these local ice cream shops. They offer a delightful way to celebrate, no matter the occasion.

Grand Forks, ND: Tea & Crepe
- Known for their delicious Thai Rolled Ice Cream, Tea & Crepe, located in downtown Grand Forks, offers a unique and fun dessert experience.
St. Cloud, MN: Jupiter Moon Ice Cream
- A favorite spot just outside of St. Cloud in St. Joe, Jupiter Moon Ice Cream is celebrated for its handcrafted, small-batch ice creams made with locally sourced ingredients.
Detroit Lakes, MN: Otter Coffee and Ice Cream
- Located in Vergas, MN, Otter Coffee and Ice Cream offers a great selection of ice cream flavors with some rotating weekly. Check their Facebook page to see what the new flavor of the week is!
Winona, MN: Nate & Ally’s Frozen Treat Creations
- A popular ice cream spot in downtown Winona, Nate & Ally’s Frozen Treat Creations offers over 50 toppings and numerous ice cream flavors. They even have edible cookie dough and smoothies!
Alexandria, MN: Sugar Shack Ice Cream & Candy
- This charming ice cream shop is a local favorite, offering various flavors and nostalgic candies.
Fergus Falls, MN: Dairyland
- Dairyland is a classic ice cream shop offering soft serve and a variety of other sweet treats, making it a perfect stop for a family celebration.

Final Thoughts

These back-to-school snacks are both unique and nutritious, perfect for keeping your kids fueled and happy throughout the week. With a mix of sweet and savory options, your kids will look forward to snack time. And when it’s time to celebrate, these local ice cream shops offer the perfect treat for any occasion.