Fun Apple Snack for Kids: Create Your Own Edible Lip Treats!

I know, you are seeing this everywhere this season. But for a reason. They are a fun and healthy snack idea that kids will love. Making your own edible lip treats with apples is an engaging way to promote healthy eating. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's Halloween, playdates, or just a fun afternoon in the kitchen.

apple, peanut butter and marshmallow

Why Apples?

Apples are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. A medium apple contains about 95 calories, 4 grams of fiber, and is a good source of vitamin C. Being rich in antioxidants, they help support overall health. Their natural sweetness and crunch make them an appealing option for kids. Moreover, kids are more inclined to eat healthy snacks when they can help prepare them. This apple snack is an excellent way to make nutritious eating fun!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the fun of creating edible lip treats, gather the following ingredients:

• Apples: Pick your favorite variety. I like Honey Crisp or Fuji.

• Peanut Butter (or other spread): If allergies are an issue, almond butter or sunflower seed butter works just as well. We like it with Sunflower Seed Butter which you can get with or without sweetener. For a twist, SunButter has a spread with chocolate added which is also low in sugar and has no hydrogenated oil.

• Mini marshmallows, almonds, or pine nuts: These will serve as the “teeth” for your edible lips.

  
  

Make sure you have everything at your fingertips to keep the process smooth!

Preparing the Apples

Start by cutting apples into wedges. For uniformity, an adult can use an apple slicer. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick slices. This thickness ensures the apple pieces are sturdy enough for toppings. Keeping the skin on not only adds color but also extra nutrients, making the snack even healthier.

Spreading the Peanut Butter

Here comes the fun! Let the kids spread peanut butter (or their chosen spread) generously on one side of each apple slice. This is a great way for young hands to practice their spreading skills, and a well-covered slice helps everything stick together. Prepare to clean up after this step (wink) .

Adding the “Teeth”

After spreading the peanut butter, it's time to create the “teeth” for your edible lips. Kids can use a variety of toppings, fostering creativity:

• Mini Marshmallows: These delightful, fluffy treats can be placed along the edges of the apple slices, resembling teeth. Kids love their sweetness!

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• Almonds: Sliced almonds offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, which contrasts nicely with the softness of the apple and marshmallows.

  
  

Let the children have fun arranging the “teeth” any way they like. No rules!

My grandkids were going for max marshmallows and basically spread peanut butter on the apple slices, piled on marshmallows and then drizzled more peanut butter on top so... have fun.

Enjoying the Snack

Once the edible lip treats are ready, it’s time to enjoy them. Serve the fun snacks on a colorful plate (if you have time). Encourage kids to share with family and friends. Not only will they be tasting a delicious snack, but they will also feel proud of their creation.

These apple snacks are a healthier option compared to traditional treats. They are great for everyday snacks, after-school activities, or party treats. Statistics show that involving children in food preparation can increase their willingness to try new healthy foods by up to 60%, making this activity even more worthwhile for those with picky eaters in the home.

Tips for a Successful Snack Time

Here are a couple of tips to enhance the experience:

1. Involve the Kids: Let children take charge during preparation. When they create their own snacks, kids take ownership.

   
   

2. Experiment with Flavors: Encourage kids to explore different spreads and toppings. Nut butters, yogurt, or cream cheese can add variety and surprise.

   
   

3. Make it a Learning Experience: Use this time to educate kids on the benefits of the ingredients they are using. Discuss how healthy snacks help their bodies grow and stay energized.

   
   

4. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftover pieces, place them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for later munching.

   
   

A Creative Culinary Adventure

Making your own edible lip treats is not just about enjoying a healthy snack. It’s also a way to foster creativity, teamwork, and learning. With a few simple ingredients, you can transform ordinary apples into delightful and nutritious fun that kids will both love to make and to eat.

So, gather your ingredients, invite the little ones into the kitchen, and enjoy creating these playful apple snacks together!

Happy fall and happy snacking!