After-school snacks and recipe ideas
Fiona Logan
Once the kids come back from a long day at school, they’re normally pining for a snack the second they walk through the front door. Keep their hunger pangs at bay until tea time with some of our after-school sweet and savoury snack recipes.
We’ve also thrown in a few speedy supper ideas, in case you want to get straight to the main event.
Best after-school savoury snacks
These quick quesadillas only take half an hour to make and can be cut up into individual portions – perfect if the kids have their friends over.
Healthier vegetable spring rolls
These bundles of veg, encased in crispy pastry are brilliant all-year round. Our lighter recipe is perfect for kids too, as they aren’t laden with fat. Serve alongside their favourite condiments for dunking!
This scrumptious cheese straw recipe makes the perfect after-school nibble and they are easy to make so you can get the kids involved in the process too.
Follow our homemade recipe for healthier sausage rolls – a snack that’s lower in fat than the traditional version, so perfect to feed the little ones.
The clue is in the title here: these sweetcorn fritters couldn’t be easier to throw together and are very quick to make – so if you find yourself with a crowd to feed…
Making your own goujons definitely beats shop-bought ones every time and they are just as quick to make too.
This baguette pizza recipe is one to keep the kids occupied; let them choose their own toppings and get creative in the kitchen.
Best after-school sweet snacks
Who doesn’t adore a flapjack? Our chewy flapjacks are the best combination of oats, syrup and butter with a crunchy almond and pine nut topping.
Healthier chocolate chip cookies
Our healthier recipe of this favourite tea time treat uses sugar alternatives and is low in saturated fat, meaning it’s a nice sweet treat to offer the kids every once in a while
Chocolate cherry knickerbocker glory
Get a taste of this American classic dessert, chocolate cherry knickerbocker glory, that’s really simple to make as it only requires a few ingredients.
If the kids are nagging you for something sweet but the cupboards are feeling a little bare, this microwaved chocolate pot recipe couldn’t be simpler and requires just TWO ingredients!
An easy and fun activity to do with the kids after school – these sweet butterfly cakes require just a few ingredients and taste delicious. Let the kids hone in on their decorating skills too, as they create the wings and buttercream for the tops.
You’ve got two options here: make these delicious blueberry and banana muffins and eat warm and fresh OR make in advance and freeze a batch for a speedy snack. They’re great for after sports.
A very close relative of the smoothie. This is a quick and healthy milkshake recipe using fresh strawberries or raspberries – perfect for using up any fruit that the kids refuse to eat!
Best after-school speedy suppers
Macaroni cheese is a childhood classic and it’s perfect because everyone loves it – no matter their age. The mustard and parsley give this old favourite an up to date flavour makeover, but feel free to omit for picky eaters.
Looking for an after-school activity? Get the kids to help you make the pizza dough in this super simple margherita pizza recipe. Or use store-bought dough if you’re looking to speed things up.
Making your own fish fingers isn’t quite as tricky as you might think, plus it allows you to choose a particular fish that your kids prefer. You’ll just need eggs, flour, breadcrumbs and fish and you’re ready to get dipping!
Classic meatballs – served however you like
A proper pot of meatballs cooked in a rich tomato sauce is a fabulous feast that always delivers. You can serve them up with classic spaghetti, with rice, on their own or even in a baguette.
This Mexican classic, made with chicken breasts and shop-bought fajita seasoning, is perfect for pulling together for a last-minute midweek meal for the little gang. You can go easy on the seasoning if the kids don’t like spicy food.
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