15 Healthy Banana Snacks Kids Will Love

Kids consume over 90% more bananas when they're transformed into fun, creative snacks. You'll want to revolutionize your child's eating habits with these nutrient-packed banana treats that blend nutrition and excitement. By reimagining this humble fruit into playful formats, you'll turn mealtime into an adventure that sneaks essential vitamins and minerals into your kids' diets. Intrigued by how simple ingredients can become irresistible? Keep exploring to unlock banana snack magic that'll have your children begging for more.

Frozen Banana Pops

Frozen banana pops are a delightful and nutritious treat that transforms an ordinary banana into a fun and exciting snack for children. These colorful and sweet treats aren't only delicious but also provide a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream or processed desserts, making them an excellent choice for parents looking to offer their kids a nutritious treat.

By using simple ingredients and easy preparation techniques, families can create a delicious and visually appealing snack that kids will love. The process of making frozen banana pops can even be a fun activity for children to participate in, encouraging them to engage with healthy food preparation.

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas
• Wooden popsicle sticks
• Dark chocolate or milk chocolate
• Chopped nuts (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)
• Shredded coconut (optional)

Prepare the bananas by peeling them and cutting them in half crosswise. Insert a popsicle stick into the flat end of each banana half, ensuring it's securely in place. Place the prepared bananas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for approximately 2 hours or until they're completely solid.

Once the bananas are frozen, melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to ensure smooth consistency. Remove the bananas from the freezer and quickly dip each one into the melted chocolate, rotating to cover completely. Immediately sprinkle with desired toppings like chopped nuts or coconut before the chocolate hardens.

When making frozen banana pops, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm, as overly soft bananas won't hold their shape as well. For added variety, consider using different types of chocolate or creating a marbled effect by mixing white and dark chocolate. Store the completed banana pops in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week to maintain their texture and flavor.

Banana Sushi Rolls

Banana sushi rolls are a playful and nutritious snack that transforms a simple banana into an exciting treat kids will love. This creative recipe turns ordinary bananas into colorful, fun-to-eat rolls that are both healthy and delicious, making it perfect for school lunches or after-school snacking.

These rolls aren't only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, providing a great alternative to processed snacks. By combining bananas with wholesome spreads and toppings, parents can offer their children a satisfying and nutritious option that feels like a treat.

To prepare banana sushi rolls, start by peeling a ripe banana and laying it flat on a piece of parchment paper. Spread a thin, even layer of peanut butter or almond butter across the entire surface of the banana. Drizzle honey over the nut butter to add a touch of sweetness.

Sprinkle granola along the length of the banana, creating an even coating. Carefully roll the banana tightly, using the parchment paper to help create a compact roll. Place the roll in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to help it set and make slicing easier. Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the roll into bite-sized pieces, creating your sushi-like presentation.

When preparing banana sushi rolls, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to ensure the best texture and ease of rolling. For added variety, experiment with different nut butters, toppings, and additional mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds to keep the snack exciting and nutritionally diverse.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter or almond butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons granola
• Optional toppings: chia seeds, coconut flakes, mini chocolate chips

Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are a delightful and nutritious treat that kids will love. These bite-sized snacks combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the irresistible appeal of chocolate chips, creating a wholesome and delicious option for parents looking to provide a healthier alternative to traditional sugary treats.

These mini muffins aren't only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The bananas provide natural sweetness, potassium, and fiber, while the whole wheat flour adds additional nutritional value. They're perfect for school lunches, after-school snacks, or as a quick breakfast on-the-go.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until well blended and smooth.

In a separate bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix the batter. Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

For best results, use very ripe bananas with brown spots, as they'll be sweeter and provide more moisture to the muffins. These mini muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to a month, making them a convenient make-ahead snack for busy families.

Peanut Butter Banana Quesadillas

Peanut Butter Banana Quesadillas are a delightful and nutritious snack that combines the classic flavors of bananas and peanut butter in a warm, crispy tortilla. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for kids who love a sweet and satisfying treat that's both delicious and packed with energy-boosting nutrients.

These quesadillas aren't only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them an ideal option for busy parents looking to provide a wholesome snack that children will actually enjoy eating. The combination of creamy peanut butter and soft, ripe bananas creates a perfect balance of flavors that kids will love.

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat tortillas
• Ripe bananas
• Creamy peanut butter
• Honey (optional)
• Butter or cooking spray
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

Begin by spreading a thin layer of peanut butter on one side of each tortilla, ensuring complete coverage but leaving a small border around the edges. Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds and arrange them carefully on top of the peanut butter, covering half of the tortilla.

If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey over the banana slices and sprinkle with a light dusting of cinnamon. Fold the tortilla in half, creating a half-moon shape, and press gently to seal the edges. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.

Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The goal is to create a warm, melty interior while achieving a slightly crunchy exterior. Once cooked, remove from the pan, let cool for a minute, and then slice into wedges for easy serving.

For the best results, use ripe bananas that are soft but not overly mushy, and choose a creamy peanut butter that spreads easily. Always supervise children during preparation, especially when using the stove, and allow the quesadillas to cool slightly before serving to prevent burns. These quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day and quickly reheated in a toaster oven or microwave.

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a nutritious and delightful treat that can help parents sneak more wholesome ingredients into their children's diet. These soft, chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with hearty oats, creating a satisfying snack that both kids and adults will enjoy.

This recipe isn't only easy to make but also provides a good balance of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and natural sugars that can give children sustained energy throughout the day. By using whole ingredients and minimizing added sugars, these cookies offer a healthier alternative to traditional store-bought options.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1½ cups rolled oats
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended. Gradually stir in the oats, cinnamon, and optional nuts or chocolate chips until a consistent dough forms.

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon to create a more uniform shape. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set.

When preparing these cookies, consider using very ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness. The riper the banana, the less additional sweetener you'll need. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container, where they'll keep fresh for up to 5 days.

Banana Smoothie Popsicles

Banana smoothie popsicles are a delightful and nutritious treat that children will love. These frozen delights transform the classic banana smoothie into a fun, handheld snack that's perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy dessert option.

By blending ripe bananas with yogurt and a touch of honey, parents can create a wholesome frozen treat that provides essential nutrients while satisfying kids' sweet tooth. The popsicle format makes these snacks interactive and appealing to children of all ages.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Popsicle molds and sticks

To prepare the banana smoothie popsicles, start by peeling and slicing the ripe bananas into chunks. Add the banana pieces, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract into a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Ensure all ingredients are well combined and the mixture has a consistent texture.

Carefully pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a small space at the top for expansion during freezing. Insert popsicle sticks and place the molds in the freezer. Allow the popsicles to freeze completely, which typically takes about 4-6 hours or overnight.

For best results, run the popsicle molds under warm water for a few seconds before removing the frozen treats. This helps release the popsicles smoothly and prevents them from breaking. Store any unused popsicles in a freezer-safe container to maintain their quality and prevent freezer burn.

Banana Pancake Bites

Banana Pancake Bites are a delightful and nutritious snack that transforms traditional pancakes into bite-sized treats perfect for kids. These mini pancakes offer a fun and portable way to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite while sneaking in the natural sweetness and nutritional benefits of bananas.

Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these Banana Pancake Bites can be prepared quickly and stored for on-the-go snacking. They're an excellent option for parents looking to provide a healthier alternative to processed snacks while keeping children satisfied and energized.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Coconut oil for cooking

To prepare Banana Pancake Bites, start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add eggs, milk, and honey, whisking together until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients: whole wheat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with coconut oil. Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, drop small amounts of batter to create bite-sized pancakes, cooking each side for approximately 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

When cooking Banana Pancake Bites, consider using silicone molds or a mini muffin pan for consistently sized portions. These can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a convenient meal prep option for busy families.

Apple Banana Energy Balls

Apple Banana Energy Balls are a nutritious and delightful snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crisp flavor of apples. These energy balls are perfect for kids who need a quick boost of energy during school or after-school activities, providing essential nutrients and a satisfying taste.

These no-bake treats aren't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for busy parents looking to provide healthy alternatives to processed snacks. The combination of oats, bananas, apples, and nuts creates a balanced treat that supports growing children's nutritional needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 small apple, grated
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth and creamy. Add the grated apple, rolled oats, almond butter, honey, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and ground flaxseed. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they're well combined and form a sticky, cohesive mixture.

Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape.

When preparing these energy balls, consider using organic ingredients when possible and involve your children in the preparation process. This can make the experience more fun and encourage them to enjoy healthy snacks. Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring a convenient and nutritious snack is always ready.

Banana Yogurt Parfaits

Banana Yogurt Parfaits offer a delightful and nutritious treat that kids will love. These layered snacks combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy yogurt, creating a colorful and wholesome dessert that's both tasty and healthy.

Parents can easily prepare these parfaits as a quick after-school snack or a fun weekend treat that provides essential nutrients and keeps children satisfied between meals. The versatility of this recipe allows for creative variations and personalization.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup granola
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Optional: Cinnamon or chocolate chips for topping

To create the parfaits, start by slicing the bananas into thin, uniform pieces. Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm, with just a few brown spots, which will provide the best natural sweetness for the dish. In clear glasses or mason jars, begin layering by adding a spoonful of yogurt at the bottom.

Next, alternate layers of sliced bananas and yogurt, creating a visually appealing striped effect. After completing the layers, sprinkle granola on top and drizzle honey over the parfait. For added texture and flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or a few chocolate chips as a final touch.

When preparing Banana Yogurt Parfaits, consider making them shortly before serving to prevent bananas from browning. If preparing in advance, you can brush banana slices with a little lemon juice to preserve their color and prevent oxidation. For added nutrition, experiment with different types of yogurt or granola to keep the snack interesting for kids.

Banana Graham Cracker Sandwiches

Banana Graham Cracker Sandwiches are a delightful and nutritious snack that kids will love. These simple treats combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of graham crackers, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

This easy-to-prepare snack isn't only delicious but also provides a good source of energy and nutrients for growing children. The recipe requires minimal preparation and can be customized with additional toppings to suit different tastes.

Ingredients:

• Graham crackers
• Ripe bananas
• Cream cheese (optional)
• Honey or chocolate spread (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)

To make Banana Graham Cracker Sandwiches, start by selecting ripe bananas that are soft but not overly mushy. Carefully slice the bananas into thin, even rounds that will fit nicely between two graham cracker halves. If desired, spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the graham crackers before adding the banana slices.

For added flavor, drizzle a small amount of honey or chocolate spread over the bananas, or sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon. Gently press another graham cracker half on top to create a sandwich, ensuring the banana slices are secure but not squished.

When preparing these snacks, it's best to make them just before serving to prevent the graham crackers from becoming soggy. If you're packing them for a lunch or snack, wrap each sandwich individually in wax paper or plastic wrap to keep them fresh and intact.

Banana Fruit Roll-Ups

Banana Fruit Roll-Ups are a delightful and nutritious snack that transforms ordinary bananas into a chewy, sweet treat kids will love. By using simple ingredients and a low-temperature oven or dehydrator, parents can create a healthy alternative to store-bought fruit leather that's free from artificial additives.

This recipe isn't only easy to make but also provides an excellent way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. The process involves pureeing bananas and spreading them thinly before slowly drying them into a flexible, portable snack perfect for lunchboxes or after-school munching.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, typically around 170°F, or prepare a food dehydrator according to manufacturer instructions. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor, adding honey and cinnamon if desired. Blend until completely smooth and uniform in texture.

Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage. Pour the banana puree onto the lined sheet and spread it evenly into a thin, uniform layer approximately ¼ inch thick. Place the baking sheet in the oven or dehydrator and dry for 6-8 hours, or until the surface is no longer sticky and can be peeled away from the liner.

When making banana fruit roll-ups, remember that varying humidity and banana ripeness can affect drying time. Check the roll-ups periodically and rotate the tray if needed for even drying. Once completely dry, cut into strips, roll them up, and store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Banana Nutella Pinwheels

Banana Nutella Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make snack that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, chocolatey flavor of Nutella. This simple recipe is perfect for kids who love fun, rolled-up treats that are both delicious and visually appealing. The pinwheels can be prepared in just a few minutes, making them an ideal quick snack or dessert.

These pinwheels aren't only tasty but also offer a good balance of nutrients. The bananas provide natural sweetness and essential vitamins, while the Nutella adds a touch of indulgence that children will love. They can be served as an after-school snack, packed in lunchboxes, or enjoyed as a light dessert.

Start by laying out a large tortilla on a clean cutting board. Spread a thin, even layer of Nutella across the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Peel a ripe banana and place it at one end of the tortilla, ensuring it spans the entire width.

Carefully roll the tortilla around the banana, creating a tight cylinder. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. For best results, make sure the roll is compact and the Nutella helps seal the edges.

When preparing these pinwheels, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm. If you want to add extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles on top of the Nutella before rolling. These can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a short time to help them hold their shape.

Ingredients:

• Large tortillas
• Ripe bananas
• Nutella
• Optional: Chopped nuts or sprinkles

Banana Breakfast Bars

Banana Breakfast Bars are a nutritious and delightful way to start the day, perfect for busy families looking to provide a wholesome breakfast option for their children. These bars are packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas, whole grains, and optional mix-ins that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Not only are these breakfast bars quick to prepare, but they also offer a portable and convenient meal that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. They're an excellent solution for parents seeking to provide their kids with a balanced and energy-boosting breakfast that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey, almond butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until well blended. In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a consistent batter forms. If using, fold in the optional nuts and chocolate chips. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

When preparing these breakfast bars, consider experimenting with different mix-ins like dried fruit, seeds, or alternative nut butters to keep the recipe exciting and adaptable to your family's preferences. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast option.

Banana Coconut Bites

Banana Coconut Bites are a delightful and nutritious snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tropical crunch of coconut. These bite-sized treats are perfect for children who enjoy exploring new flavors while getting a healthy dose of essential nutrients.

This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to transform ordinary bananas into an exciting snack that kids will love. The combination of soft banana and toasted coconut creates a textural experience that's both satisfying and fun to eat.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped nuts

Peel the bananas and slice them into half-inch thick rounds. Place the banana slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they aren't touching each other. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded coconut with honey and cinnamon until well combined.

Carefully sprinkle the coconut mixture over each banana slice, gently pressing the coconut to help it adhere. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for extra crunch. Bake the banana bites in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the coconut turns golden brown and the bananas are slightly caramelized.

When preparing these bites, use bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy during baking. For best results, allow the bites to cool for a few minutes after removing them from the oven, as this will help them set and develop a slightly crisp exterior.

Three-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream

Banana ice cream is a simple, nutritious dessert that provides a delicious alternative to traditional sugary treats. This three-ingredient recipe isn't only easy to make but also offers a healthy option for children who love sweet snacks.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility and minimal preparation time, making it an ideal choice for busy parents looking to serve a quick and wholesome dessert. Kids will love the creamy texture and natural sweetness of this frozen treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

To prepare banana ice cream, start by peeling and slicing ripe bananas into small chunks. Place the banana pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until completely solid. Once frozen, transfer the banana chunks to a food processor or high-powered blender.

Blend the frozen banana pieces until they become smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add milk and vanilla extract if desired, and continue blending until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency. If you prefer a firmer texture, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours before serving.

For best results, use very ripe bananas with brown spots, as they'll provide the most natural sweetness and create a smoother ice cream texture. You can also experiment with additional mix-ins like cocoa powder, peanut butter, or fresh berries to create different flavor variations that will keep kids excited about this healthy dessert.