15 Kid-Friendly Picnic Foods

What’s better than a sunny afternoon, a picnic blanket spread out under a tree, and a basket full of delicious treats? When it comes to kids, finding the perfect picnic foods can be a tricky balance of fun, easy, and tasty.

But don’t worry – we’ve got your back with these 15 kid-friendly picnic foods that will keep the little ones munching, laughing, and enjoying the great outdoors!

From bite-sized snacks to vibrant veggie dips, these recipes are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit. So, grab your picnic basket and let’s get started on the most fun and flavorful picnic ever!

1. Mini Sandwich Skewers

Description:
Mini sandwich skewers are the perfect grab-and-go snack for kids! With layers of cheese, turkey, and veggies, they’re not only fun to assemble, but they also pack in plenty of healthy ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • Whole wheat bread (cut into small squares)
  • Deli turkey slices
  • Cheddar cheese (cut into cubes)
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cucumber slices
  • Toothpicks or small skewers

Instructions:

  1. Cut the bread into small squares, about 1-inch in size.
  2. Slice the turkey and cheese into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Thread a piece of bread onto the skewer, followed by a slice of turkey, a cube of cheese, a cherry tomato, and a cucumber slice. Repeat the process for as many skewers as you need.
  4. Arrange the skewers on a serving tray, and serve with kid-friendly dips like hummus or ranch dressing.

2. Fruit Kabobs

Description:
These fruit kabobs are a colorful, healthy treat that kids will love. Full of juicy fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes, these kabobs are a great way to sneak in some vitamins!

Ingredients:

  • Strawberries
  • Pineapple chunks
  • Grapes
  • Banana slices
  • Skewers

Instructions:

  1. Wash and prep the fruit. Cut strawberries and pineapple into bite-sized chunks. Peel and slice the banana.
  2. Slide pieces of fruit onto the skewers, alternating between different colors and types for a rainbow effect.
  3. Arrange the fruit kabobs on a plate, and chill them in the fridge until ready to serve.

3. Veggie Dippers with Hummus

Description:
A veggie platter is an excellent way to get kids excited about eating their greens! Pair crunchy veggies with creamy hummus for a tasty and healthy snack that’s fun to dip.

Ingredients:

  • Carrot sticks
  • Celery sticks
  • Cucumber slices
  • Bell pepper strips
  • Hummus (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Wash and peel the vegetables. Cut carrots and celery into sticks, and slice the cucumber and bell peppers.
  2. Arrange the veggie sticks in a colorful, fun design on a large plate or platter.
  3. Place a small bowl of hummus in the center of the veggies for dipping.
  4. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. Cheese and Crackers Platter

Description:
Who doesn’t love a good cheese and crackers combo? It’s an easy and quick picnic snack that’s perfect for little hands, and you can add some sweet fruit to balance out the savory flavors.

Ingredients:

  • Assorted crackers (whole wheat, multigrain, or plain)
  • Mild cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda)
  • Grapes or apple slices

Instructions:

  1. Slice the cheese into small cubes or thin slices.
  2. Arrange the crackers and cheese on a large platter, mixing in some fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices.
  3. Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until it’s time for your picnic.

5. Mini Quesadillas

Description:
Mini quesadillas are easy to make and even easier for kids to eat. These handheld treats can be filled with cheese, chicken, or veggies, making them a versatile picnic choice.

Ingredients:

  • Flour tortillas
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • Cooked chicken (optional)
  • Salsa (optional)
  • Butter (for cooking)

Instructions:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter.
  2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over it. Add cooked chicken if desired.
  3. Place another tortilla on top and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. Remove from heat and cut the quesadilla into small wedges for easy serving.
  5. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

6. Apple Sandwiches with Peanut Butter and Granola

Description:
These apple sandwiches are a crunchy, sweet, and savory treat that’s perfect for a picnic. With peanut butter, granola, and fresh apple slices, these sandwiches are full of energy and flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 apples (sliced into rings)
  • Peanut butter
  • Granola
  • Honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the apples into rings, removing the core.
  2. Spread a layer of peanut butter on one apple slice and sprinkle granola over the peanut butter.
  3. Place another apple slice on top to form a sandwich.
  4. Drizzle with a bit of honey for added sweetness, if desired.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until it’s time to picnic.

7. Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Description:
Crispy, golden chicken tenders are a favorite for any picnic. These homemade tenders are easy to make and pair perfectly with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup honey mustard sauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Dip the chicken strips into the beaten egg, then coat them with breadcrumbs.
  3. Place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken is golden and crispy.
  5. Serve with a side of honey mustard dipping sauce.

8. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Description:
Ham and cheese pinwheels are a twist on the classic sandwich! These rolled-up delights are easy to eat and can be made with different fillings, but the combo of ham, cheese, and a soft tortilla is always a winner.

Ingredients:

  • Flour tortillas
  • Sliced ham
  • Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)
  • Cream cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
  2. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the tortilla (optional but adds a creamy texture).
  3. Place a few slices of ham and cheese on the tortilla.
  4. Roll the tortilla up tightly.
  5. Slice the roll into pinwheels, about 1-inch thick.
  6. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter, and serve immediately or refrigerate until it’s time to picnic.

9. Mini Pizza Bagels

Description:
Mini pizza bagels are perfect for picnics since they’re easy to hold and customize with toppings. Kids will love creating their own mini pizzas, and they’re a fun and tasty snack to munch on.

Ingredients:

  • Mini bagels (halved)
  • Pizza sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni slices (optional)
  • Dried oregano (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread pizza sauce over the cut side of each mini bagel.
  3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
  4. Add pepperoni or any other toppings you like.
  5. Place the bagels on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve.

10. Frozen Yogurt Bark

Description:
This cool and creamy frozen yogurt bark is a great treat for a hot day. Topped with fresh fruit and granola, it’s a fun and healthy way to cool off while picnicking.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Fresh fruit (berries, banana slices, kiwi)
  • Granola
  • Mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup.
  3. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
  4. Top with fresh fruit, granola, and chocolate chips (if using).
  5. Freeze for 3-4 hours, or until completely set.
  6. Break the yogurt bark into pieces and serve immediately or pack it for the picnic.

11. Veggie Tortilla Rolls

Description:
These veggie tortilla rolls are packed with colorful veggies and hummus for a crunchy, fresh bite that kids will love. They’re easy to make and great for little hands to grab.

Ingredients:

  • Flour tortillas
  • Hummus
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Shredded carrots
  • Cucumber slices
  • Bell pepper strips

Instructions:

  1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
  2. Spread a thin layer of hummus all over the tortilla.
  3. Layer on the lettuce, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
  4. Roll the tortilla tightly and slice it into 1-inch wide rolls.
  5. Arrange on a plate, and serve with a side of extra hummus for dipping.

12. Apple Nachos

Description:
Apple nachos are a sweet twist on the classic nachos, using apple slices as the base. Topped with peanut butter, granola, and a drizzle of honey, these make for a fun and healthy picnic snack.

Ingredients:

  • 2 apples (sliced into rings)
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • ¼ cup granola
  • Honey (for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the apples into thin rings, removing the core.
  2. Arrange the apple slices on a platter.
  3. Melt the peanut butter in the microwave for 20 seconds until smooth, then drizzle over the apple slices.
  4. Sprinkle granola over the apples and finish with a drizzle of honey.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet, crunchy treat!

13. Mini Veggie Muffins

Description:
Mini veggie muffins are a great way to sneak in some veggies while still serving a fun snack. These savory muffins are soft, fluffy, and packed with hidden carrots and spinach.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • ½ cup chopped spinach
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the egg, olive oil, and milk.
  4. Stir in the grated carrot and chopped spinach.
  5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
  6. Spoon the batter into a mini muffin tin and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. Let the muffins cool before serving.

14. Banana Sushi

Description:
Banana sushi is a fun and unique picnic snack that kids will love rolling and eating. It’s simple to make and a great way to pack in some fruit and protein!

Ingredients:

  • 2 bananas
  • Peanut butter
  • Rice Krispies or granola

Instructions:

  1. Peel the bananas and slice them in half.
  2. Spread a layer of peanut butter on each banana half.
  3. Roll the peanut butter-covered banana in Rice Krispies or granola until completely coated.
  4. Slice the banana into bite-sized pieces, resembling sushi rolls.
  5. Serve immediately or pack for your picnic!

15. Mini Pita Pockets

Description:
Mini pita pockets are the perfect size for kids to enjoy a customizable sandwich. Fill them with fresh veggies, cheese, and turkey or chicken for a balanced and tasty snack.

Ingredients:

  • Mini pita pockets
  • Sliced turkey or chicken
  • Sliced cucumber
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced cheese
  • Hummus or ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the mini pita pockets in half.
  2. Fill each pita pocket with a layer of turkey or chicken, followed by cucumber slices, shredded lettuce, and cheese.
  3. Add a drizzle of hummus or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
  4. Serve immediately, or pack in individual servings for easy eating.

Similar Posts