As your little one grows and becomes more curious about food, it’s essential to introduce them to a variety of nutritious options. At 9-12 months old, babies are learning to self-feed and explore different textures and flavors. Providing finger foods that are not only tasty but also easy to grab can be a game-changer for mealtime. In this article, we’ll share 20 simple and healthy recipes that your baby is sure to love. From sweet potato mashes to zucchini muffins, our recipes use wholesome ingredients and minimal processing to ensure they’re both nourishing and fun.
Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash Bites
Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash Bites: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Mashed Vegetables!
These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or as a side dish. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor from roasted sweet potatoes and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 4 medium carrots
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Meanwhile, peel carrots and chop into 1-inch pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Scoop out sweet potato flesh and mash in a bowl. Add roasted carrots, brown sugar, and mix until combined.
5. Form mixture into small balls (about 1-inch diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (roasting sweet potatoes and carrots: 45-50 minutes + 20-25 minutes; forming and baking mash bites: 15-20 minutes)
Avocado and Banana Finger Rolls
A sweet and savory twist on traditional finger rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the creaminess of avocado with the natural sweetness of banana.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the bananas and avocado together until smooth.
3. Add the oats, honey, salt, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix until combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
5. Spoon a small amount of the banana-avocado mixture onto one half of each piece. Fold the other half over and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for glaze. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Broccoli and Cheese Mini Fritters
These bite-sized fritters are a delightful twist on traditional broccoli and cheese recipes. They’re perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and olive oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form mixture into small balls.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pea and Spinach Pancake Strips
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious twist on traditional pancakes – these pea and spinach pancake strips are packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect for breakfast or snack time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1/4 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, peas, and spinach until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg and milk until smooth.
4. Add olive oil and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch (depending on number of strips)
Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal Fingers
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional oatmeal, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples. These easy-to-make fingers are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, apple, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into finger shapes.
5. Place fingers on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Teething Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for teething babies, made with nutritious ingredients like zucchini and corn. They’re easy to grab and go, making them a great addition to your little one’s snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup mashed banana
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, zucchini, and corn.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together mashed banana, egg, honey, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin and Quinoa Soft Balls
Warm up with these tender and nutritious soft balls that combine the flavors of pumpkin, quinoa, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pumpkin puree, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add rolled oats, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 soft balls.
4. Place the soft balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These soft balls are best served chilled, making them perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Blueberry and Yogurt Melts
A refreshing and healthy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a quick snack any time of the year. This recipe combines sweet blueberries with creamy yogurt for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 6 ounces plain whole-milk yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the blueberries and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon the blueberry mixture into an ice cube tray, filling each compartment about 3/4 of the way full.
3. Pour the yogurt over the blueberries, making sure to cover them evenly.
4. Add a few drops of vanilla extract on top of the yogurt for extra flavor.
5. Freeze the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Once frozen, remove the Blueberry and Yogurt Melts from the ice cube tray and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or less)
Servings: 6-8 melts
Cauliflower and Cheese Tots
A twist on traditional tater tots, these cauliflower and cheese bites are a deliciously healthier snack option that’s easy to make and irresistible to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Add the egg to the bowl and mix until a sticky dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a tot shape.
7. Dip each tot in melted cheddar cheese, coating completely.
8. Place the cauliflower and cheese tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Chia Seed Pudding Cubes
Transform your breakfast or snack game with these nutritious and delicious Pear and Chia Seed Pudding Cubes! Made with wholesome ingredients, these bite-sized treats are packed with fiber-rich chia seeds, sweet pears, and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe pears, diced
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add diced pears, honey or maple syrup (if using), and lemon juice to the bowl. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Once set, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the pudding mixture into cubes.
5. Serve chilled, either on their own or paired with your favorite toppings (e.g., granola, nuts, or fresh fruit).
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Lentil and Sweet Potato Patties
These flavorful patties are a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins from lentils and sweet potatoes. Perfect as a main course or as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or spices
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, mashed sweet potato, oats, onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Mix well with a fork until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana and Oat Teething Cookies
These Banana and Oat Teething Cookies are a healthy and delicious way to soothe your little one’s sore gums during teething. Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of honey, these chewy treats are perfect for babies 6 months and up.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Add the oats, honey, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving to your baby.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carrot and Apple Rice Cakes
These sweet and savory rice cakes are a delightful twist on traditional snacks, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or your preferred variety)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, grated carrot, diced apple, olive oil, and honey. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired cake size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cakes are lightly golden brown and crispy.
5. Allow cakes to cool before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spinach and Egg Mini Muffins
These bite-sized muffins are a great way to start your day with a boost of protein, fiber, and vitamins. With spinach and eggs as the main ingredients, you’ll be getting a healthy dose of nutrients in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, oats, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the spinach leaves and melted butter; mix until well combined.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 12 mini muffins
Chickpea and Pumpkin Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or as a nutritious addition to your favorite snack platter. With the creamy texture of chickpeas and the sweetness of pumpkin, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, pumpkin, oats, honey, salt, and cumin until well combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands or a cookie scoop to shape into 12-15 bite-sized balls.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
6. Spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly browned and firm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Strawberry and Cottage Cheese Wafers
Sweet and savory come together in these Strawberry and Cottage Cheese Wafers! A delicious twist on traditional waffles, this recipe combines the freshness of strawberries with the creaminess of cottage cheese for a breakfast or snack that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions (typically 3-5 minutes).
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beetroot and Apple Soft Sticks
Combine the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of beetroot to create a unique and delicious snack. These soft sticks are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroots, peeled and cooked
– 1 apple, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked beetroot, grated apple, oats, honey, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Transfer the mixture to an ice cube tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
3. Once frozen, remove from tray and place in a ziplock bag or container. Store in the freezer.
4. To serve, simply thaw individual sticks as needed.
Cooking Time: None (freezing)
Whole Wheat and Banana Bread Fingers
These tender and flavorful bread fingers are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a satisfying snack. Made with whole wheat flour, ripe bananas, and a hint of sweetness, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed banana, egg, honey, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a finger-shaped log.
5. Place the bread fingers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Basil Polenta Squares
A creative twist on traditional polenta, these bite-sized squares are perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Fresh tomatoes and basil add a burst of flavor to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the polenta thickens, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix in the diced tomato and chopped basil leaves.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a silicone mat-lined tray.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
8. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (polenta sets in the refrigerator)
Peach and Coconut Milk Gels
A refreshing summer treat that combines the sweetness of peaches with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh peaches, sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the peach puree, coconut milk, honey, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced fresh peaches.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Summary
Discover 20 nutritious finger food recipes perfect for babies aged 9-12 months. These easy-to-grab treats are made with wholesome ingredients and cater to various tastes and textures. From Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash Bites to Strawberry and Cottage Cheese Wafers, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and nutrients. With a range of options, you’ll never run out of ideas for healthy snacking on-the-go. Prepare your little one’s taste buds for a delightful journey with these delicious and nutritious finger foods!