Getting your little ones involved in the kitchen can be a wonderful way to teach them valuable skills, such as measuring, mixing, and following instructions. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time together and create memories that will last a lifetime. But sometimes, finding kid-friendly recipes that are both fun and easy to make can be a challenge.
That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 fun cooking with kids recipes that are perfect for little chefs of all ages. From classic treats like ants on a log and cookie cutter sandwiches, to healthier options like rainbow fruit kabobs and veggie wraps, there’s something for every young cook to enjoy. In the following pages, we’ll take you through each recipe, step by step, so you can easily replicate them with your mini-me’s.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with these no-bake peanut butter oatmeal balls! Made with simple ingredients and requiring no cooking, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready when you need them.
Rainbow Fruit Kabobs
Get ready to delight your senses with this vibrant and refreshing fruit kabob recipe! With a mix of juicy fruits, you’ll be creating a masterpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup orange slices
– Wooden skewers (10-12)
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of each fruit onto the skewer in this order: pineapple, strawberry, kiwi, grape, orange.
2. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, leaving a small space at the top.
3. If desired, drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Mini Pizza Bagels
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and fun twist on traditional pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini bagels
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped pepperoni or other toppings of your choice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the mini bagels in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bagel halves and sprinkle with pizza sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top each bagel with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pepperoni or your preferred toppings.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Quesadilla Pinwheels
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy pinwheels that combine the best of quesadillas and wraps. Perfect for a quick bite or as a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken (or beans or veggies)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese and chicken.
3. Lay out a tortilla and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the cheese-chicken mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border on both sides.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly into a pinwheel shape.
6. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Alphabet Pancakes
Start your day with a playful twist on traditional pancakes! These alphabet-shaped treats are perfect for kids and adults alike, and are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for the pan
– Alphabet cookie cutters (various shapes and sizes)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with vegetable oil or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Using alphabet cookie cutters, scoop out pancake batter and place on the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes per batch (depending on size of alphabet shapes).
Ants on a Log
Ants on a Log is a classic kid-friendly snack that’s easy to make and fun to eat. This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of raisins with the crunch of celery and peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 stalks of celery
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Optional: honey or granola for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Wash your hands before starting.
2. Cut the celery into 1-inch pieces.
3. Spread a small amount of peanut butter onto each piece of celery.
4. Place 2-3 raisins on top of the peanut butter, forming an “ant” pattern.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready when you are.
Homemade Pretzel Bites
Satisfy your snack cravings with these soft and chewy homemade pretzel bites, perfect for munching on the go or serving at parties. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked pretzels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching it out into a pretzel shape.
5. Place pretzels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with sesame seeds or toppings if desired.
6. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Sushi Rolls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a unique dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and Instagram-worthy treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions. Allow it to cool.
2. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and salt.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
5. Spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Place a banana piece in the middle of the rice.
7. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
8. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time for Japanese rice)
DIY Taco Bar
Transform your taco Tuesday into a fiesta with this simple and customizable DIY taco bar recipe. With a variety of toppings, you’ll be the star of the show!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– Diced tomatoes
– Chopped cilantro
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought)
– Sour cream
– Avocado or guacamole
– Crushed tortilla chips or crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef according to package instructions, seasoning with taco seasoning.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the taco bar by setting up separate stations for toppings (cheese, beans, tomatoes, cilantro, salsa) and garnishes (sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips).
4. Let everyone build their own tacos!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Strawberry Banana Smoothie Pops
Beat the heat with these creamy and fruity popsicles perfect for hot summer days. Made with fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and a hint of honey, these smoothie pops are a delicious and healthy treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice pop molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, strawberries, honey, Greek yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend, pour, and freeze.
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Transform your lunch game with this vibrant and nutritious recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! With a rainbow of colorful veggies, creamy hummus, and crispy whole-grain wraps, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole-grain tortillas
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading hummus on each tortilla, followed by cooked black beans, roasted bell peppers, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and chopped cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Apple Donuts
Easy Apple Donuts Recipe
Get ready to bite into a deliciously sweet and crispy treat with our Easy Apple Donuts recipe! These donuts are perfect for a quick snack or dessert, and the addition of chopped apples adds natural sweetness and texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast and warm water; let mixture sit for 5 minutes to activate yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and egg; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped apples.
5. Cover dough and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C). Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain donuts on paper towels; dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including rising time)
Cookie Cutter Sandwiches
Elevate your snack game with these adorable cookie cutter sandwiches, perfect for kids’ parties or a quick pick-me-up. With just a few ingredients and some simple assembly, you’ll be enjoying a delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of sugar cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup peanut butter or Nutella
– 1/4 cup marshmallow creme
– Assorted cookie cutters (hearts, stars, animals, etc.)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). If using homemade cookies, bake according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cookies to cool completely.
3. Spread a dollop of peanut butter or Nutella on one half of each cookie.
4. Top with a dollop of marshmallow creme.
5. Place another cookie half on top to create a sandwich.
6. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the sandwiches into fun shapes.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Assemble and serve immediately.
Yogurt Parfait Cups
Elevate your snack game with these colorful yogurt parfaits, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a fun dessert. Layered with crunchy granola and sweet fruit, each cup is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 6 small cups or ramekins
Instructions:
1. Spoon about 1/4 cup of yogurt into each cup.
2. Top the yogurt with a layer of mixed berries, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of granola over the berries.
4. Drizzle 1/6 teaspoon of honey over the granola.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 to create two more layers in each cup.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fruit or granola if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Cheesy Veggie Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these cheesy veggie muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying snack. Made with shredded carrots, zucchini, and cheddar cheese, they’re packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, egg, grated cheese, shredded carrots, and zucchini.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Elevate your dessert game with this classic combination of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a romantic treat, these chocolate-dipped strawberries are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large strawberries
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
3. Place dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
– For a more intense chocolate experience, chill the strawberries in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before dipping.
Mini Meatball Sliders
Elevate your party or snack game with these adorable mini meatball sliders, packed with flavor and fun. Perfect for a quick gathering or as an appetizer for a larger event.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini hamburger buns
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Provolone cheese slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast mini buns according to package instructions.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a meatball on each bun, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a slice of provolone cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Yogurt Bark
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious frozen yogurt bark recipe! This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen yogurt (any flavor)
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: nuts, sprinkles, shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the frozen yogurt on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
3. Top with mixed berries and chopped dark chocolate chips.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break into chunks and enjoy! (Optional: add your favorite toppings before freezing)
Cooking Time: None! Simply freeze until ready.
Summary
Get your little chefs involved in the kitchen with these fun and easy recipes! From classic snacks like Ants on a Log and Cookie Cutter Sandwiches, to creative twists like Rainbow Fruit Kabobs and DIY Taco Bar, there’s something for every young cook. Make it a baking day with Mini Meatball Sliders or Easy Apple Donuts. Or try some sweet treats like Banana Sushi Rolls and Chocolate Dipped Strawberries. These 18 recipes are perfect for kids of all ages to get creative and have fun cooking up a storm!