11 Smart Snacking Fall Desserts for Kids’ Lunches

11 Smart Snacking Fall Desserts for Kids’ Lunches

Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites

pumpkin spice no bake treats

Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites are a delightful and healthy snacking option for kids during the fall season. These no-bake treats are packed with nutritious ingredients such as oats, pumpkin puree, and warming spices, making them a perfect sweet bite that provides energy and flavor without the guilt. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed by little hands for an after-school snack or during family gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Rolled oats 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1/2 cup
Nut butter (peanut or almond) 1/3 cup
Honey or maple syrup 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon
Chia seeds (optional) 2 tablespoons
Mini chocolate chips (optional) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and spices.
  2. Stir the mixture until well combined. If using, fold in chia seeds and mini chocolate chips.
  3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
  4. Once chilled, scoop out small amounts, and roll them into bite-sized balls.
  5. Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy!
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Apple Cinnamon Mini Muffins

apple cinnamon muffins recipe

Apple Cinnamon Mini Muffins are a fun, delicious, and healthy treat for kids that perfectly capture the essence of fall. These light and fluffy muffins are filled with the warm flavors of fresh apples and aromatic cinnamon, making them an ideal snack for after school or as part of a cozy breakfast. Plus, they are simple to make and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Sugar 1/3 cup
Apples (peeled and diced) 1 cup
Egg 1 large
Milk 1/2 cup
Vegetable oil 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let the muffins cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy!
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Maple Pecan Granola Bars

wholesome maple pecan bars

Maple Pecan Granola Bars are a wholesome and delightful snack that encapsulates the flavors of fall while providing a nutritious option for kids. These chewy bars are packed with oats, crunchy pecans, and a touch of maple syrup, making them perfect for after-school munching or as an energy-boosting treat during outdoor adventures. Easy to make and great for packing in lunchboxes, they are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Rolled oats 2 cups
Chopped pecans 1 cup
Maple syrup 1/2 cup
Honey 1/4 cup
Peanut butter (or almond butter) 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Dark chocolate chips (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the oats, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla over low heat, stirring until smooth.
  4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Add chocolate chips if using.
  5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.
  6. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Brownie Bites

nutritious sweet potato brownies

Sweet Potato Brownie Bites are a scrumptious and nutritious alternative to traditional brownies that kids will love. These bite-sized treats are rich in flavor and textures, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with cocoa powder for a chocolatey experience. Perfect for snack time or as a dessert, they deliver a hidden boost of vitamins and fiber without compromising on taste!

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes 1 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup
Almond flour (or regular flour) 1/2 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Coconut oil, melted 1/4 cup
Eggs 2
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Dark chocolate chips (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving. Enjoy!
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Caramel Apple Fruit Cups

caramel apple dessert cups

Caramel Apple Fruit Cups are a delightful and fun dessert that kids will enjoy both making and eating! These creative cups combine the fresh flavors of apples with smooth caramel, offering a wholesome treat that captures the essence of fall. Perfect for snack time or as a party dessert, they’re also a great way to encourage kids to eat more fruit while indulging their sweet tooth.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled and diced) 4 medium
Caramel sauce 1 cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Mini marshmallows 1 cup
Chopped nuts (optional) 1/2 cup
Whipped cream (optional) For topping
Ground cinnamon (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Add the caramel sauce to the apples and mix until well coated.
  3. Divide the caramel apple mixture evenly into small cups or bowls.
  4. Top with mini marshmallows and chopped nuts if desired.
  5. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

chewy cinnamon oatmeal cookies

Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a warm and comforting treat that perfectly capture the flavors of fall. These cookies are chewy and fragrant, making them a fantastic snack for kids after school or a delightful addition to any autumn gathering. Packed with wholesome oats and infused with cinnamon, these cookies are sure to be a hit with the little ones and adults alike!

Ingredients Quantity
Old-fashioned oats 2 cups
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Brown sugar 3/4 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (melted)
Egg 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. Let cool before serving. Enjoy your delicious treats!
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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods With Fall Sprinkles

chocolate covered pretzel rods

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods with Fall Sprinkles are a fun and festive snack that’s perfect for kids to enjoy during the autumn season. These sweet and salty treats are easy to make and can be customized with a variety of fall-themed sprinkles, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or an exciting after-school snack.

Ingredients Quantity
Pretzel rods 1 bag (8 oz)
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Coconut oil 1 tablespoon
Fall-themed sprinkles 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals until smooth.
  2. Dip each pretzel rod halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
  3. Immediately sprinkle the fall-themed sprinkles over the chocolate-covered portion of the pretzel.
  4. Place the dipped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool until the chocolate hardens.
  5. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods with friends and family!
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Pear and Ginger Muffins

pear and ginger muffins

Pear and Ginger Muffins are a delightful fall treat that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the warm spice of ginger. These muffins are not only moist and flavorful but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making them an ideal snack for kids and a perfect addition to any autumn gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Brown sugar ¾ cup
Vegetable oil ⅓ cup
Eggs 2 large
Milk ½ cup
Ripe pears, diced 1 ½ cups
Crystallized ginger, chopped ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk until well combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced pears and crystallized ginger.
  5. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
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Nutty Trail Mix With Autumn Flavors

autumn inspired nutty snack

Nutty Trail Mix With Autumn Flavors is a perfectly portable snack that captures the essence of fall in each handful. This mix combines a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, enhanced with seasonal spices and a hint of sweetness. It’s an ideal treat for kids and a great way to introduce them to the flavors of autumn while providing nourishing energy for their activities.

Ingredients Quantity
Almonds, chopped 1 cup
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) ½ cup
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Dried apricots, chopped ½ cup
Dark chocolate chips ½ cup
Ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if toasting the nuts.
  2. Spread the almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the toasted nuts and seeds with the dried cranberries, dried apricots, dark chocolate chips, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup.
  5. Mix until well combined and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  6. Allow to cool before storing in an airtight container. Enjoy this delicious trail mix as a snack or on-the-go treat!
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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the rich sweetness of chocolate chips. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for snacking after school or as a fun dessert at family gatherings. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a fantastic option for kids to help with in the kitchen.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter, softened ½ cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Egg 1 large
Pure pumpkin puree 1 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  4. Beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Leaf-Shaped Sugar Cookies With Royal Icing

fall themed cookie decorating activity

Leaf-Shaped Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing are a festive and creative fall dessert that kids will love to make and decorate. These cookies are not only delicious but also serve as a fun activity to engage children in the kitchen during the autumn season. The cookies can be shaped like colorful leaves, making them a perfect treat for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or simply as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 3 cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Egg 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Royal icing (for decoration) 2 cups
Food coloring (various colors)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a dough forms.
  6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick and cut out leaf shapes using cookie cutters.
  7. Place the cutout cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating them with royal icing and food coloring to create beautiful leaf designs. Enjoy your charming Leaf-Shaped Sugar Cookies!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.