Snacking doesn’t have to mean reaching for packaged, overpriced items at the store. With a little bit of planning, you can make delicious and nutritious snacks at home that save you money and are better for your health. By preparing your own snacks, you have full control over the ingredients, which means fewer preservatives and added sugars sneaking into your diet. Plus, homemade snacks like these are often fresher, tastier, and tailored to your personal preferences.
Contents
- 1 Homemade Granola Bars
- 2 Apple Chips
- 3 Greek Yogurt Parfaits
- 4 Hummus and Veggie Cups
- 5 Energy Bites
- 6 Roasted Chickpeas
- 7 Banana Oat Muffins
- 8 Trail Mix
- 9 Veggie Chips
- 10 Peanut Butter and Banana Toast
- 11 Cottage Cheese and Fruit Bowls
- 12 Frozen Yogurt Bark
- 13 Smoothie Packs
- 14 Avocado Toast with Seeds
- 15 Dark Chocolate and Almond Clusters
- 16 More From RetailShout
- 17 15 Cozy Fall Wardrobe Staples from Walmart, Starting at Just $11
- 18 14 Healthiest Bread Options You Can Buy at the Store
Homemade Granola Bars
Granola bars are a classic, convenient snack that can be made healthier and cheaper at home. To make them, start by combining 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of mixed nuts, ½ cup of honey, and ¼ cup of peanut butter in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and sticky. Press the mixture into a lined baking tray, spreading it evenly to ensure the bars cook uniformly. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown on top. Once cooled, cut into individual bars, and enjoy a tasty snack rich in fiber and protein.
Apple Chips
Apple chips are a naturally sweet, crunchy snack that’s much healthier than regular chips. Begin by slicing two apples as thinly as possible to achieve that crisp texture. Spread the apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re in a single layer to bake evenly. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for extra flavor, then bake at 200°F for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides get crisp. Let them cool completely before eating, which helps them reach maximum crunchiness. These apple chips make a guilt-free treat with natural sugars and fewer calories.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Greek yogurt parfaits are a creamy, customizable snack that’s packed with protein and probiotics. Start by layering 1 cup of Greek yogurt in a clear glass or jar for a pretty presentation. Add ½ cup of your favorite fruits, such as berries or sliced bananas, as the next layer for natural sweetness and a burst of flavor. Sprinkle granola on top for a crunchy contrast and finish with a drizzle of honey. You can make several parfaits ahead of time and store them in the fridge for easy snacking. This refreshing treat is not only filling but also packed with essential nutrients.
Hummus and Veggie Cups
Hummus and veggie cups are perfect for a healthy, fiber-filled snack that’s easy to make at home. For homemade hummus, blend 1 can of chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of tahini, 1 clove of garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Pour the hummus into small containers, leaving room to add sliced veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Arrange the veggies upright in the cups for a colorful, inviting presentation. This snack is great for meal prepping and provides a satisfying combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Energy Bites
Energy bites are a quick, no-bake snack that’s ideal for a boost of energy between meals. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of rolled oats, ½ cup of peanut butter, ¼ cup of honey, and ¼ cup of chocolate chips or dried fruit. Stir everything together until it forms a thick, sticky mixture. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a plate or tray, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up. These energy bites are perfect for a quick snack, offering a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and a touch of sweetness.
Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, savory snack that’s high in protein and a great substitute for chips. Drain and rinse 1 can of chickpeas, then spread them on a paper towel to dry completely. Toss the chickpeas in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and add your favorite spices like paprika or garlic powder. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking. Once crispy and golden, they’re ready to enjoy on their own or as a crunchy topping for salads.
Banana Oat Muffins
Banana oat muffins are a naturally sweet snack that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon treat. Start by mashing two ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth, then add 1 cup of oats, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Stir until the ingredients are well combined into a thick batter. Pour the mixture into a muffin tin lined with paper or silicone cups and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top. These muffins are moist, flavorful, and make for a filling, fiber-rich snack.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a versatile snack that’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste. Combine 1 cup of your favorite nuts, ½ cup of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips, and ¼ cup of seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin. Mix everything together and portion it into small bags for easy, grab-and-go snacking. Making trail mix at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding added sugars and preservatives. This snack is full of healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you energized throughout the day.
Veggie Chips
Homemade veggie chips are a crunchy snack with fewer calories and more nutrients than traditional potato chips. Slice vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, or zucchini as thinly as possible, ideally using a mandoline for consistent slices. Toss the vegetable slices with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides crisp up evenly. Let the chips cool completely before enjoying a healthy, guilt-free snack with plenty of flavor.
Peanut Butter and Banana Toast
Peanut butter and banana toast is a simple but delicious snack that’s perfect for any time of day. Start by spreading 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on a slice of whole-grain bread, which adds fiber and whole grains to the snack. Slice a banana and arrange the slices on top of the peanut butter, covering the bread evenly. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon over the bananas for extra flavor if you like. This snack provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars to keep you satisfied.
Cottage Cheese and Fruit Bowls
Cottage cheese with fresh fruit is a creamy, protein-rich snack that’s refreshing and easy to prepare. Begin with 1 cup of cottage cheese in a bowl, which serves as the base for this simple snack. Add ½ cup of sliced fruit, like pineapple, berries, or apple, for natural sweetness and an extra dose of vitamins. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or a few nuts on top for added flavor and crunch. This snack is filling and nutritious, providing a good mix of protein, calcium, and fiber.
Frozen Yogurt Bark
Frozen yogurt bark is a fun, cool treat that’s low in sugar and perfect for warm days. Spread 1 cup of Greek yogurt evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating a thin layer. Sprinkle with ½ cup of mixed berries and a handful of nuts or seeds to add texture and flavor. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 2-3 hours until the yogurt is completely frozen. Once frozen, break the bark into pieces for a refreshing snack that’s low in sugar but high in protein and antioxidants.
Smoothie Packs
Smoothie packs are a convenient way to prepare for a quick, nutritious snack anytime. To make them, fill small freezer bags with 1 banana, ½ cup of mixed berries, and a handful of greens like spinach or kale. Seal and freeze the packs for future use. When you’re ready for a smoothie, just pour a pack into a blender with 1 cup of milk or juice and blend until smooth. These smoothie packs are packed with vitamins and make a refreshing snack with minimal effort.
Avocado Toast with Seeds
Avocado toast with seeds is a simple yet filling snack packed with healthy fats, fiber, and a bit of crunch. Begin by mashing half an avocado in a bowl and spreading it on a slice of whole-grain toast. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and add a handful of seeds, like chia, flax, or sesame, on top. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor. This snack is satisfying and full of nutrients to keep you energized.
Dark Chocolate and Almond Clusters
Dark chocolate and almond clusters are a homemade treat that’s both healthy and delicious. Start by melting ½ cup of dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth. Mix in 1 cup of whole almonds until they’re fully coated in chocolate. Spoon small clusters onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set. These clusters are perfect for a sweet snack that satisfies cravings with antioxidants and protein from the almonds.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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