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Warmer weather is the perfect reason to spend less time in front of a screen and more time playing in the great outdoors.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a backyard party, or inviting kids over for a playdate, having the right outdoor snacks on hand is an essential part of the equation. Here are 15 easy and delicious outdoor snacks that will keep kids happy, energized, and ready for any fresh-air activity.
Sandwiches are one of the best outdoor snacks because they pack easily, don’t require utensils, and can be customized to everyone’s tastes. We like to make mini versions of sandwiches using small rolls or quartered slices of bread to add extra kid appeal. From ham and cheese, to turkey and avocado, to peanut butter and jelly, the options are endless.
Kids love anything on a stick, so why not make some fruit skewers for your next picnic? Thread chunks of colorful fruits like strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and melon onto skewers for a refreshing and healthy treat. To turn them into the best outdoor snacks for a party, serve alongside yogurt dip or chocolate sauce.
Looking for what to take to a picnic with kids at lunchtime or dinnertime? Chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleasing choice. You can make them ahead of time and serve them cold or pack them in a cooler and enjoy them hot off the grill. They’re filling, tasty, easy to eat, and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Pasta salad is one of our favorite lunch ideas for playdates because it’s filling, customizable, and can be served cold or at room temperature. Cook some pasta and toss it with your choice of veggies, cheese, and dressing for a delicious and satisfying side dish. You can even add some diced chicken or ham for extra protein.
If you’re wondering what to make for kids’ playdates that’s creative and fun, try these easy outdoor snacks. Simply spread some peanut butter on celery sticks and top them with raisins to create “ants on a log.” These easy snacks for kids are a yummy and nutritious option that’s perfect for munching on during your picnic.
When it comes to simple picnic food ideas, an always popular choice is cheese and crackers. Choose a variety of different cheeses and serve them with whole-grain crackers for a balanced and tasty treat. Add a small bunch of seedless grapes on the side for a charcuterie-style snack.
What are good outdoor snacks or desserts for a hot day? Besides the obvious choices like ice cream and popsicles, try yogurt parfaits. These playdate snacks for kids offer an unexpected way to satisfy their sweet tooth while still getting in some nutrients. Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit in small cups or jars for a delicious and refreshing treat. For an extra dose of yogurt-y goodness, top your parfaits with Welch’s® Fruit ‘n Yogurt™ Snacks. Made with real fruit surrounded by creamy yogurt, they’re an excellent source of Vitamins A & C.
We’re always looking for the best outdoor snacks for a party that are true crowd pleasers—and this s’mores dip is it. No firepit? No problem! Pack some chocolate chips and marshmallows in a heatproof dish and place it over a portable grill or campfire until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are golden brown. Serve with graham crackers for dipping.
Homemade granola bars are healthier and tastier than store-bought versions, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. To make these playdate snacks for kids, mix together oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, honey, and a bit of nut butter, then press the mixture into a baking pan and bake until golden brown. Once cooled, cut them into bars for a delicious and satisfying snack on the go.
Chips are always simple picnic food ideas that are great on their own or as a side for sandwiches. Instead of reaching for greasy potato chips, try making your own veggie chips at home. Slice vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, and zucchini thinly, toss them with a bit of olive oil and seasoning, and bake them in the oven until crispy. These easy outdoor snacks are a crunchy and nutritious alternative that kids won’t be able to resist.
Frozen grapes are oh-so refreshing, making them one of the best outdoor snacks for hot weather. Simply wash and dry grapes, then place them in the freezer until frozen solid. These cold snacks for summer are like little bite-sized popsicles that pack a nutritious punch.
Peanut butter energy balls are amazing summer snacks for outdoor activities because they’re packed with protein and fiber for sustained energy. Mix together peanut butter, oats, honey, and any add-ins like chocolate chips or coconut flakes, then roll the mixture into bite-sized balls. Store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and satisfying snack to fuel outdoor activities for kids.
Making apple sandwiches is one of our favorite family picnic ideas that kids can help with. Slice an apple horizontally, then spread peanut butter or almond butter on one slice and sprinkle with granola or raisins. Place another apple slice on top to create a sandwich, then press gently to stick together. These easy outdoor snacks are the perfect crunchy and nutritious treat for playdates and picnics.
Yogurt tubes are one of the best outdoor snacks for hot weather when you need something convenient, refreshing, and mess-free. Choose yogurt tubes made with real fruit and lower sugar for a better-for-you option, and pack them in a cooler to keep them cold.
Popcorn is one of the best outdoor snacks for playdates because it’s the ultimate shareable treat. We like to make our own popcorn mix by adding pretzels, cheddar crackers, cereal, and Welch’s® Fruit Snacks. Pack your mix in individual bags or containers for a fun and flavorful snack that kids will love.
We hope we inspired you with outdoor party snacks and picnic ideas for kids Remember to upgrade your next playdate with Welch’s® Fruit Snacks—the best outdoor snacks for any kid-centric gathering!
