Kids love to snack and sometimes it feels like we’re here to feed them all day long, whether you’re a work-from-home parent or not. And since carb-snacks are often their go-to, making sure their snacks are nutritious is a challenge. While convenience foods definitely have a place in today’s kitchens, a little prep and imagination (including little hands) can go a long way.

Not sure where to start? Try these easy protein-packed, kid-friendly recipes that your kids can help you with too!

Little hands will love personalizing their own popsicles! Set up an assembly line of fruit, let your kids pick their favorite flavors, freeze and watch the magic. These Dreamy Coconut Fruit Pops are a great way to get lots of nutrients in little bellies!

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

• ¼-1/2 cup lite coconut milk
• 1.5 scoops vanilla bean Complete Protein powder
• ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• fresh or frozen fruit of choice, diced
• Ice (optional for added texture)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Dice your fresh or frozen fruit into small pieces. If using fresh fruit, you might want to freeze it slightly for a better texture in the popsicles.

2. Mix Coconut Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the lite coconut milk and Vanilla Bean Complete Protein Powder. Stir until the protein powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

3. Add Shredded Coconut: Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

4. Prepare Molds: Place the diced fruit into popsicle molds. You can arrange the fruit in each mold or mix it into the coconut base if you prefer a swirled effect.

5. Pour Mixture: Pour the coconut mixture over the fruit in the molds, filling them almost to the top. If using ice, you can add a few crushed ice cubes to the mixture for a frosty texture.

6. Insert Sticks: Place the sticks into the molds. If you don’t have popsicle sticks, you can use small wooden skewers or plastic spoons.

7. Freeze: Freeze the popsicles for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

8. Unmold and Enjoy: To remove the popsicles from the molds, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. Gently pull on the sticks to release the popsicles.

9. Serve: Enjoy immediately or store the popsicles in a freezer-safe container for later.

Toss your pantry staples in one bowl and mix ‘em up into these irresistible little energy bites! These no-bake energy balls are a delicious bite kids can enjoy any time of day!

Makes about 30 bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup vanilla bean, chocolate or cookies and cream Complete Protein powder
• 1 cup dry oatmeal
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 2/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (no honey for children under 12 months of age)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
•  

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein powder, dry oatmeal, almond flour, shredded coconut, and raisins or dried cranberries. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

    

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

   Form the Mixture: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and starts to come together. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey or maple syrup. If too sticky, add a bit more oatmeal or almond flour.

    

3. Shape the Bites: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.

    

4. Chill: Refrigerate the snack bites for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.

   Store: Once chilled, transfer the snack bites to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    

5. Enjoy: Grab and go for a quick energy boost or a nutritious snack!

Kids eat with their eyes first and this gorgeous pink Berry Dragonfruit smoothie does not disappoint! Plus, it’s packed with protein and important vitamins and minerals that keep our bodies healthy and strong.

Makes 1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup plain or vanilla-flavored plant-based yogurt
• 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
• Ice cubes (as needed)
• 1 scoop vanilla bean or unflavored Complete Protein powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Peel and chop the pineapple into chunks. Peel the banana and break it into smaller pieces.

    

2. Blend Smoothie: In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, banana pieces, coconut milk, and plant-based yogurt. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Add ice cubes if you prefer a colder smoothie or if your pineapple wasn't chilled.

    

3. Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more coconut milk or water until you reach your desired consistency. Blend again briefly to incorporate.

    

4. Serve: Pour the smoothie into glasses. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical garnish. You can also add chia seeds for an extra nutritional boost and texture.

    

5. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Pineapple Coconut Milk Smoothie!