7 Easy Snacks to Make After School

When you’re coming home from a long day at school, all you want to do is collapse on the couch and veg out, not whip up a gourmet meal. But you’re also all too aware of that creeping hunger that sneaks up on you right in the middle of your after-school routine. 

This creates a danger zone when it comes to fast food or junk food. It’s that intersection between exhausted and starving. To help you skip the chips and opt for a snack that fuels you for the rest of the day, we’ve put together a list of tasty, nourishing after-school snacks that are easy to prepare and will give you the energy to get through the rest of your evening feeling your best.

The Value of an After-School Snack

First things first: Why should you care about a decent snack after school? Having a nutritious snack on standby can help you keep up your energy levels, making homework or band practice seem like less of a mountain to climb. It can also make sure you’re not ravenous by dinnertime, helping you maintain a balanced diet.

You might be thinking, “Isn’t that what fitness meal delivery services are for?” Yes, those services can be super convenient, offering balanced meals and snacks delivered right to your doorstep. Sometimes, though, there’s a bit of a disconnect between meal delivery and what you’re actually craving.

Plus, there’s something about making your own snack that makes it taste just a little bit better. That’s why we’ve pulled together the following after-school snack ideas that will fulfill your cravings and give you a little health boost, all in one easy-to-prepare package. 

1. Whole-Grain Toast With Avocado and Boiled Egg

Craving something savory? Whole-grain toast topped with creamy avocado and a boiled egg is exactly what you need. This snack packs a serious protein punch, and it couldn’t be easier to put together. 

Toast your bread, slice up an avocado, and add a boiled egg on top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on sea salt and sesame seeds for extra texture. Easy peasy! The protein and healthy fats will keep you satisfied and focused, making this snack a win-win. If you’re feeling spicy, adding a little hot sauce can really take your snack game to the next level.

2. Yogurt Parfait With Berries and Granola

On the sweeter side of things, we have the trusty yogurt parfait. It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet — a trifecta of snacking delight. Start with a base of Greek yogurt, add a handful of your favorite berries (fresh or frozen — no judgment here), and top it all off with crunchy granola. 

Not only will your taste buds thank you, but your body will appreciate the fiber, antioxidants, and probiotics too.

3. Homemade Trail Mix

Maybe you’re looking for something a little more portable, like something you can munch on between tasks. This is where homemade trail mix comes into play. Mix together nuts (our favorites are almonds and cashews), dried fruit, and a bit of dark chocolate. 

Voila! You have a balanced, on-the-go snack at the ready. The nuts provide healthy fats and protein, dried fruits add a sweet element, and the dark chocolate… Well, that just makes everything better.

4. Smoothie Bowls

When it comes to snacks that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the taste buds, smoothie bowls take the cake. Simply blend your favorite fruits, add a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt, and you’re ready to go with your tasty base.

Now comes the fun part: Top it with anything you fancy — chia seeds, more fruits, or granola. The possibilities are endless. Not only does this taste like a treat, but it also sneaks in a few of your five-a-day, and who can argue with that?

5. Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups

Here’s something for all the peanut butter fans out there. Take a whole wheat tortilla, spread on a good helping of peanut butter, add a ripe banana, and roll it up. It’s that simple. 

The peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, the banana gives you a quick energy boost, and the whole wheat tortilla keeps it all wrapped up nice and neat. Now if only life were that simple…

6. Hummus and Veggie Sticks

Slice up cucumber, bell peppers, or any other vegetable you like, and serve it with a side of hummus. You get the crunchy satisfaction of chips and dip but with a much healthier twist. Plus, it’s a great way to fit in some extra fiber and vitamins.

7. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers

It’s time to revisit the classic combo: cheese and whole-grain crackers. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Any cheese you enjoy will do the trick. Pair it with some hearty whole-grain crackers, and you’ve got yourself a snack that’s both tasty and filling. The cheese provides calcium and protein, and the crackers give you that carbohydrate energy boost.

Give Yourself Something To Look Forward To After School

These after-school snack ideas aren’t just simple to prepare; they’re designed to keep you satisfied and full of energy for whatever comes next in your busy day. 

Once you’ve mastered these snacks, get creative and come up with your own concoctions. It’s time to conquer that after-school hunger in style. Good food doesn’t have to be complicated.