These cheesy veggie muffins are perfect for a nutritious and filling after-school snack. Packed with hidden veggies and whole grains, they can be made in batches and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy access.
To make these muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of finely chopped vegetables (like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini). Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
These muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. For a fun variation, try adding cooked bacon or different spices like Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
Homemade granola bars are a fantastic way to have a sweet yet healthy snack ready for hungry kids after school. They are customizable, allowing you to include your family's favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of nut butter (like almond or peanut butter), 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 1/2 cup of add-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Once cooled, cut into bars and store them in an airtight container. These granola bars can be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks.
For a nut-free option, substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter, and feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract.
Yogurt parfait cups are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit with kids. They are easy to prepare in advance and can be tailored to suit various tastes.
To prepare these parfait cups, start by gathering your ingredients: 4 cups of yogurt (plain or flavored), 2 cups of granola, and 2 cups of fresh or frozen fruit (like berries, bananas, or peaches). In small cups or jars, layer the yogurt, followed by a layer of granola, then a layer of fruit. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the cup. Cover with lids or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply grab a cup from the fridge!
Feel free to switch up the yogurt flavors, use different fruits based on the season, or even add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra nutrition.