10 Healthy and Fun Michigan-Inspired Snacks for Your Kids
Olivia Durkee
| 3 min read
Activities with children – whether playing in the backyard or exploring your community – are never complete without snack time. Here are some tasty, healthy snacks that will keep your little ones energized throughout the day.
These 10 great healthy snack ideas that you can make for your kiddos incorporate fresh fruits and veggies – all of which can be found right here in the state of Michigan!
Lake Michigan Parfait
Create a refreshing and protein-packed parfait by combining fresh blueberries and local honey over protein granola on top of a bed of Greek yogurt for a delicious and nutritious summer snack.
Pure Michigan Popsicles
Blend together a medley of local summertime Michigan fruits like strawberries, peaches and raspberries with some Greek yogurt and local honey. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, add a stick and freeze for a cool and naturally sweet treat.
Mackinac Island Granola Bars
Make your own granola bars using ats and dried cherries with chopped almonds and a drizzle of locally sourced honey. These delicious bars will provide a great burst of all-natural energy for days in the Michigan sun.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Snack Mix
Combine some Michigan-made popcorn, dried local blueberries and cherries, almonds and a sprinkle of sea salt for a flavorful snack mix that pays homage to our beautiful Michigan dunes.
U.P. Apple Nachos
Slice some fresh Michigan apples into thin rounds and arrange them onto a plate. Drizzle with local honey, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with a handful of crushed walnuts or dried Michigan cherries for a sweet Michigan treat.
Pure Michigan Salsa
Dice up fresh tomatoes, sweet corn, yellow onion and jalapenos from a local farm. Mix them with lime juice, fresh cilantro and sea salt for a zesty salsa that pairs perfectly with some whole grain tortilla chips.
Michigan Cherry Vanilla Smoothie
Blend together some fresh cherries, low-fat vanilla yogurt, local honey and a splash of oat milk for a creamy and nutritious smoothie that captures the essence of a Michigan summer.
Traverse City Energy Bites
Combine oats, dried cherries and honey with ground flaxseed in a bowl. Let the mixture cool in the fridge for 2-3 hours, then roll the mixture into a bite-sized balls for a wholesome snack that captures the essence of Traverse City’s annual harvest.
Mitten-shaped Watermelon Bites
Using a cookie cutter in the shape of Michigan’s iconic mitten, cut up some local juicy Michigan watermelon slices into fun shapes. Let your kids enjoy the refreshing taste of this summer staple while learning about the unique geography of their state.
Great Lakes Veggie Skewers
Thread local cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and zucchini onto skewers and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Roast over a grill for 5-7 minutes for a crispy and nutrient-packed savory snack.
Dip into hummus or a yogurt-based dip for some extra flavor.
Celebrate the bounty of Michigan with these healthy and fun snacks for your children and family. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the bustling streets of Detroit, each snack will remind your family of the unique flavors and sights our state has to offer.
