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    Home » Appetizers/ Snacks » 18+ Healthy Summer Snacks for Kids

    18+ Healthy Summer Snacks for Kids

    Published: Jul 8, 2016 · Modified: Jun 9, 2025 by HWC Magazine · 20 Comments

    Quick and Easy healthy summer snacks for kids showing smoothies, sorbets, nice cream, popsicles for a warm summer day.

    School’s out, and summertime fun is finally here! But, what about the snacks? If you’re tired of hearing, “There’s nothing to eat!” try these cool and refreshing healthy summer snacks for kids.

    These easy, make-ahead treats are the ultimate solution for busy parents. Gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a healthier and more budget friendly alternative to the ice cream truck. From naturally sweet frozen treats to creamy chia seed puddings, these snack ideas will transform summertime into fun time!

    A roundup of Healthy World Cuisine's summer snacks for kids with lots of photos of dairy free and gluten free cool and refreshing treats.
    Jump to:
    • Reducing Sugar and Additives: Mom’s Approval
    • Frozen Snacks
    • Refreshing Smoothies
    • Chia Seed Puddings
    • Fun Beverages and Kid-Friendly Drinks
    • Quick On the Go Snack Ideas
    • No Recipe Needed Summer Snacks
    • Summer Snack Planning
    • Kid Friendly Dinner Ideas

    Reducing Sugar and Additives: Mom’s Approval

    Have you ever looked on the back of the of the package of ice pops (Pop – Ice Assorted fruit freezer ice pops)? They have 21 grams of sugar per serving and are filled with red, yellow, and blue dyes. Yes, they are convenient but I’m pretty sure these are not the best for you.

    But wait! Our mom used to get the real deal bargain basement popsicles (remember when it used to have the double stick). Low and behold they contain maltodextrin, aspartame, locust bean gum (what the heck is that anyways?) and some other unknown items.

    To give mom some credit, she used to break the popsicle apart so we could share the other half with a friend. At some point in time, she started making homemade popsicles with fruit juice in Dixie cups. These were our favorite and our inspiration for our round up of summer snacks for kids.

    Controlling how much sugar and using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and date paste cuts down on the glycemic load.  If you can avoid all the chemicals and dyes in the food, you are a step ahead of the rest. Lastly, keeping all the snacks gluten-free, dairy free and some vegan, like some of our favorite breakfasts, makes it convenient for entertaining all the neighborhood children too! (smiling)

    Are you ready to explore some healthier snack ideas?

    Frozen Snacks

    Avocado Ice Candy
    These 3 ingredient creamy treats are a fantastic way to cool off this summer. With just 10 minutes prep, you have a healthy gluten-free and dairy-free snack option for kids. These Philippine inspired ice candies will keep your little ones satisfied and refreshed!
    Get this recipe
    Big bite out of a avocado ice candy. In the background a tray of popsicles and avocado half.
    3 Healthy Sorbet Recipes (Lychee, Raspberry & Blueberry)
    These frozen raspberry, blueberry, and lychee no churn Healthy Sorbet Recipes are so low in sugar that you could enjoy them for breakfast. With No ice cream maker required and only 3 ingredient, you can whip them up in under 10 minutes. They also make a fun patriotic red, white, and blue dessert for the 4th of July.
    Get this recipe
    Lychee, raspberry and blueberry sorbets in dainty dessert cups.
    Berry Iced Tea Popsicles
    Beat the heat with refreshing Rooibos Iced Tea Popsicles. Naturally sweetened with caffeine-free organic rooibos tea and mixed berries.  These quick and easy ice pops are a delicious and healthy antioxidant boost for both kids and adults.
    Get this recipe
    Rainbow Berry Rooibos Ice Pops on a sheet pan with ice and frozen mixed berries.
    No-Churn Dairy Free Mango Swirl Ice Cream
    This tropical dairy-free dessert is creamy, dreamy, and the perfect way to cool off this summer. With just three simple ingredients and only 5 minutes to prepare, it’s sure to become a new favorite for kids.
    Get this recipe
    No-Churn Dairy Free Mango Swirl Ice Cream / https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Chocolate Covered Frozen Fruit (Homemade Magic Shell)
    Our 3-ingredient fun homemade magic shell makes Chocolate Covered Frozen Fruit pops a quick and easy summertime snack. Vegan, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, these fruit treats are sure to please! Dipping fruit in the magic chocolate shell is a fun activity to do with the children.
    Get this recipe
    Chocolate covered bananas with sprinkles on a white plate.
    Chocolate Frozen Yogurt Bites
    This is the original 2013 fun and easy Chocolate Frozen Yogurt Bites recipe! Simply chop strawberries or your favorite fruit, mix with yogurt (feel free to use dairy-free yogurt if needed), freeze, dip in a homemade dark chocolate magic shell, and enjoy! Store them in the freezer for easy grab and go snacking.
    Get this recipe
    Chocolate frozen yogurt bites cut in halt showing the creamy Greek yogurt and strawberries coated in a thin magic shell.
    Black Sesame Nice Cream
    Try our creamy and nutty 3-ingredient Black Sesame Nice Cream! Simply blend frozen bananas, black sesame seed paste and a splash of almond milk to create a delicious soft serve “nice” cream snack. It’s ready in 5 minutes and requires no churning. The kids will undoubtably be showing off their black tongues and there will be loads of giggles to cherish.
    Get this recipe
    Black sesame nice cream in a scoop and in clear dish.

    Refreshing Smoothies

    Berry Cherry Smoothie Blast
    Enjoy a refreshing Berry Cherry Smoothie Blast for breakfast or snack on the go. This frosty plant-based drink combines naturally sweet mixed berries, frozen cherries, coconut cream with a bright citrus zest.
    Get this recipe
    Berry Cherry Smoothie Blast / https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Ginger Citrus Dragon Fruit Smoothie
    The Ginger Citrus Dragon Fruit Smoothie is a delightfully creamy tropical summertime snack option. Packed with gut-friendly ginger, vibrant red dragon fruit, fresh citrus, and bananas to keep the kids happy and healthy this summer.
    Get this recipe
    Ginger Citrus Dragon Fruit Smoothie/ https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Mexican Chocolate Cherry Smoothie
    Satisfy your chocolate cravings with our secretly healthy Mexican Chocolate Cherry Smoothie. When chocolate meets cherries something magical happens! After you add a frozen banana for natural sweetness and a touch of cinnamon, it’s a delightful flavor explosion that’s perfect for warm days.
    Get this recipe
    Mexican chocolate cherry smoothie on a wooden serving platter garnished with cherries.

    Chia Seed Puddings

    Lemony Lavender Chia Seed Pudding
    Lemon Lavender Chia Pudding is a simple, creamy, and delicious make ahead snack. It’s so healthy you can eat it for breakfast. Packed with anti-inflammatory turmeric, zesty lemon, and calming lavender, this summer snack is loved by kids and adored by adults. 
    Get this recipe
    Lemony Lavender Chia Seed Pudding / https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Chocolate Matcha Chia Seed Pudding
    Get ready to wake up your taste buds with our nutritious and delicious layered chocolate Matcha Chia Seed Pudding. If you prefer a caffeine-free version, simply swap the matcha with cocoa powder for an all-chocolate delight.
    Get this recipe
    Chocolate matcha chia seed pudding topped with berries and coconut cream.

    Fun Beverages and Kid-Friendly Drinks

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
    This rich and creamy chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie is a fan favorite. It's a go to snack when you are craving something sweet but want to eat healthy. No added sugar, vegan, and gluten free too for the perfect summer refresher.
    Get this recipe
    Creamy rich chocolate peanut butter smoothie topped with bananas and unsweetened chocolate cocoa powder. Surrounded by chopped bananas , peanut butter.
    Homemade Cream Earl Grey Bubble Tea
    Homemade Cream Earl Grey Bubble Tea is the ultimate refreshing summer beverage. Made with creamy dairy free coconut milk, organic decaf Earl Grey tea and chewy boba balls, it’s lightly sweetened with our homemade date paste. Enjoy this kid friendly vegan and dairy free treat to cool off on warm days.
    Get this recipe
    Homemade Cream Earl Grey Bubble Tea / https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Cantaloupe Lime Agua Fresca
    Cantaloupe Lime Agua Fresca is a refreshing blend of sun-kissed sweet cantaloupe, zesty limes, sparkling water and crushed iced. This naturally sweet drink is the perfect summertime refreshment, made without any added sugar!
    Get this recipe
    Cantaloupe Lime Agua Fresca/ https://www.hwcmagazine.com
    Black Sesame Latte: 4 Ways with Strawberry & Matcha Cold Foam
    Cozy up with a creamy and frothy Black Sesame Latte in just 5 minutes. Try it hot, iced, or topped with optional strawberry or matcha cold foam for a special summertime snack.
    Get this recipe
    2 iced black sesame latte - one topped with matcha cold foam and the other topped with strawberry cold foam.

    Quick On the Go Snack Ideas

    Toasted Almond and Date Larabars
    Road tripping this summer? Our Toasted Almond and Date Larabars travel exceptionally well. Made with just toasted almonds and sweet dates, they’re the perfect on the go companion for your adventures.
    Get this recipe
    No Bake Cranberry Bliss Balls
    No bake cranberry snacks are an easy 15-minute treat packed with dates, nuts, cranberries, and a blend of spices. It’s a perfect grab and go option for road trips, camping, or any summer adventure. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and low in sugar.
    Get this recipe
    No Bake Cranberry Bliss Balls / https://www.hwcmagazine.com

    No Recipe Needed Summer Snacks

    • Fruit on a stick
    • Strawberries stuffed with homemade coconut whipped cream
    • Apple slices with creamy almond butter dip
    • Ants on a log (celery stick with nut butter of choice and raisins)
    • Sliced veggies like carrots, celery, bell peppers with a red pepper hummus dip
    • Mashed avocado or mango salsa on rice crackers
    • Sliced hardboiled eggs on cucumber slices.

    Summer Snack Planning

    Have you noticed that when your family is home over the summer holidays that they eat you out of house and home?  They are foraging through the refrigerator, freezer and pantry looking for snacks every 2 hours! It’ so frustrating and don’t even get us started about the MESS!

    You need to be one step ahead of the game. Arm your house with these easy grab and go summertime snack ideas. They are perfect for keeping your kids energized and satisfied all season long without all the sugar, gluten, or dairy. Gather your ingredients and your children and let’s make these fun recipes together! You’ll not only create tasty treats but also unforgettable summer memories. Happy snacking!

    Kid Friendly Dinner Ideas

    • Wholly Guacamole Pizza Pizzazz
    • The ultimate baked potato bar is set up with toppings and 6 loaded potatoes on a wooden board.
      Baked Potato Bar
    • DIY Pita Pizza Party
    • Baked honey hot wings in a plate lined with parchment paper and extra sauce on the side.
      Ultra Crispy Honey Hot Wings

    Did You Enjoy these Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas?

    Leave us a comments section below. Your feedback is always appreciated! Follow us for more delicious recipes on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook! Don't forget to sign up for our email list for more free recipes.

    More Appetizers/ Snacks

    • 4 ingredient keto okra on skewers grilling on a gas grill.
      Keto Grilled Okra with Tajín
    • 2 iced black sesame latte - one topped with matcha cold foam and the other topped with strawberry cold foam.
      Black Sesame Latte: 4 Ways with Strawberry & Matcha Cold Foam
    • Gluten-free rice paper dumplings on a white plate with dipping sauce.
      Rice Paper Dumplings
    • Gluten free baked General Tso's chicken wings served up on a parchment paper lined plate.
      Baked General Tso's Chicken Wings

    About HWC Magazine

    Join our Healthy World Cuisine medical editors (trained in both Western and Eastern Medicine) and learn how to EAT your way around the WORLD from the comfort of your own kitchen. Grab free health tips, recipe ideas, meal plans and gain a better understand how eating choices can affect your health. Be the healthier and happier YOU!

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    1. Hannah says

      June 11, 2025 at 8:25 pm

      Okay, I must qualify as a child because I would happily eat ALL of these treats!

      Reply
      • HWC Magazine says

        June 12, 2025 at 12:00 pm

        Great minds think alike. Adults love these healthy snacks too. Take Care

        Reply
    2. Heidi says

      June 09, 2025 at 8:20 pm

      This is the perfect list of feel good treats that the kids are going to love. The frozen treats will sure hit the spot on these 100+ degrees coming up! Thank you for loading me up with these healthy options for guilt free splurging!!

      Reply
      • HWC Magazine says

        June 12, 2025 at 1:24 pm

        Thank you Heidi! Scorching hundred + heat and all the humidity needs lots of hydration and some cool and healthy snacks to keep the kiddos happy. The good news as this all can be made in advance and you can just freeze them and enjoy later.

        Reply
    3. Liz says

      August 07, 2016 at 7:43 am

      I'm eying those blueberry popsicles! Perfect afternoon treat! Excellent roundup, Demeter!

      Reply
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