It’s the bane of the existence for moms: what to feed kids in summer that’s actually healthy, simple, AND budget-friendly. This list can make it happen!
Summer time presents a break from routine, and it’s one we look forward to every year.
It also presents some unique challenges. Kids can fall into a mindless-snacking-habit, and that habit can add up to a hefty grocery bill, if we’re not careful.
Store-bought snacks are typically loaded with sugar, dyes and preservatives. Those purchases are few and far between for us, these days.
How to save money and snack smart this summer
Instead of loading up on cookies and snack cakes, I’ve learned to keep a list of simple, healthy recipes with few ingredients -that my kids like.
Sometimes I have time to make the snacks- and sometimes, I delegate them to the kids! They’re the ones eating me out of house and home, so it’s only fitting.
Plus cooking is a great life skill I want them to learn. Many snacks don’t require much more than assembling ingredients, so even small children can build confidence in the kitchen with these ideas.
Take a look at our list of healthy, cheap and homemade summer snacks for some fresh ideas to incorporate into your summer routine.
Cheap, Healthy Summer Snacks (Homemade!)
Budget-friendly, homemade and healthy: use this list for summer snacks you can feel good about.
Maple syrup granola bars
Granola bars with zero refined sugar- and easy to customize with your preferred add-ins.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Balls
These are the most requested snack by my 7-year old. Double the recipe and stash them in the fridge for the whole week.
Healthy Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins
With oat flour and bananas, these are gluten free and dairy free too! And just yummy all around.
Apple Granola Topped Goodness
I love how easy this is to make with just 3 ingredients. You can use dairy-free chocolate chips, or whichever kind your family prefers.
Peach blender ice cream
Simple ingredients and fresh fruit make this a win for summer snacking (or dessert!)
Mango Mochi
Mochi has been a fun and trendy snack that my kids learned about last year. At about $0.15/each, they're a frugal summer treat.
Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas With Creamy Almond Filling
With staples like bananas and almond butter (or you could sub peanut butter), these are kid-friendly and likely won't require a grocery run.
Rainbow Fruit Tray with Yogurt Dip
Let your kids eat the rainbow- literally, with this colorful fruit tray idea. Use whatever fruits are seasonal or on sale, for added savings.
Chocolate and orange bliss balls (no-bake)
Kids can help make these and decorate, if they wish! Dates make a naturally sweet snack that tastes like a rich dessert.
Overnight Apple Pie Chia Pudding
This is a dessert, breakfast, snack- you name it! It's packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients.
Puffed Rice Cereal Bars
A great way to use up puffed rice cereal and create a new favorite snack.
Honey Roasted Chickpeas With Ginger
This is truly a frugal and creative snack! You can even make them in the air fryer.
Veggie Wraps with Hummus
With hummus and veggies, this could be a quick snack cut into pinwheel-sized bites, or even a lunch. You could use leftover assorted veggies to stretch your dollars, too.
Yogurt Bites
Protein-packed Greek yogurt makes a fun, bite-sized healthy snack. Your littles will absolutely love these.
Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
We love to make this at our house. It's (obviously) great for breakfast, too. Substitute whole grain Cheerios for added nutrition.
Easy Cherry Mango Popsicles
3 ingredients make a delicious, healthy frozen treat. We love using our Ninja Blender for recipes like this.
Valentine Peanut Butter Cookies
Crispy, sweet peanut butter treats to make with your sweets. Only 3 ingredients (chocolate kisses are optional).
Kid-Friendly Tortilla Apple Wraps
Another simple, frugal (and creative) snack with ingredients that are readily available at my house.
Be sure to let us know your favorite summer snacks that you would add to this list!
You might also like:
Cheap Instant Pot Meals You’ll Love
Money-Saving Grocery Tips (that work even during inflation)