One of the most beloved ingredients for many American families shouldn’t surprise you: it’s peanut butter. It’s so popular that wholly 90% of U.S. households consume it. Peanut butter is probably one of the most comforting foods in your cupboard, perhaps because so many of us have fond childhood memories that revolve around it. From munching on ants on a log after school lets out in the afternoon to devouring your grandma’s homemade peanut butter cookies around the holidays, you’ve probably passed your love of peanut products down to your own children to enjoy. But if you’re looking for new peanut recipes to delight your kiddos, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled three delicious and creative peanut snack ideas that your family will want to eat again and again.
Peanut butter and banana wrap
When your kids want something quick and filling for a snack (or even for breakfast), this is an excellent option. All you need is a small, whole wheat tortilla, one-to-two tablespoons of peanut butter, and a banana. Spread the PB to the corners on one half of the tortilla and top with banana slices. You can even add raisins, chocolate chips, honey, or dried coconut if you want to get fancy! Simply roll it up, folding in the edges as you go, and secure with a colorful toothpick. Instant protein and potassium!
Peanut butter, honey, and Greek yogurt dip
When it comes to peanut snack ideas, you can choose to go over-the-top or keep things simple. This three-ingredient dip falls into the latter category, but its flavor is anything but basic. Take a six-ounce container of Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain typically works best), three tablespoons creamy peanut butter, and three tablespoons of honey (bonus points if it’s local!). Blend in a bowl by hand or with a mixer. Serve with sliced apples, strawberries, bananas, pretzels, or graham crackers for a wholesome sweet treat.
Peanut butter smoothies
If your children would rather drink their peanuts than eat them, then this is one of the best peanut recipes to add to your arsenal. In fact, there are countless ways to incorporate the health benefits of peanuts into smoothies that your kids will slurp up for snacks or breakfast. It’s also a great way to refuel after your kids are done playing in the afternoon. For a simple smoothie, put a frozen banana, a half-cup of fat-free milk (or almond milk), a quarter-cup of plain Greek yogurt, and two tablespoons of peanut butter into the blender. You can also add in cocoa powder, natural sweetener (like honey, agave, or maple syrup), and a little bit of chocolate syrup for a more dessert-like feel. You can also switch things up by swapping out the banana for one-and-a-half cups of fresh strawberries and adding in some pineapple juice! Don’t be afraid to experiment and see which versions of these peanut snacks your kids like best.
While you don’t want your kids to go overboard on any type of snack, adding just a little bit of nutty goodness can give them a much-needed energy boost and keep them full until dinner is served.
Have any good peanut snack ideas? Share in the comments section!