These easy recipes for kids let them snack on what they want and give you one less thing to do. Score! Plus, it's a great learning experience. Find ideas for elementary, middle and high school-age students.
68 Easy Recipes Your Kids Can Make Themselves
Updated on Aug. 23, 2024
Help your kids learn—even over lunch hour. By preparing and cooking their own food, kids can indulge in what they actually want to eat during the school day and perhaps even stumble upon a new hobby—in addition to these fun activities, of course. These easy recipes are appropriate for elementary, middle and high school-age kids.
See our guide to age-appropriate cooking tasks.
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Elementary Age: Princess Toast
I made these sparkly treats for my daughter’s Brownie troop and they’re great for princess parties. Sometimes I use lemon curd in place of the jam. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
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Elementary Age: Chocolate Chip, PB & Banana Sandwiches
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love finding new ways to combine peanut butter, chocolate and bananas. I was shocked when my nephews (who are very picky eaters) loved these sammies. —Charlotte Gehle, Brownstown, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 502 calories, 22g fat (6g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 394mg sodium, 69g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 7g fiber), 15g protein.
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Elementary Age: Blueberry Pancake Smoothie
Total Time
5 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A smoothie loaded with fruit, oatmeal, maple syrup and cinnamon is great in the morning or at any time of day. If your berries are fresh (not frozen), freeze the banana ahead of time. —Kailey Thompson, Palm Bay, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 153 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 5g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 starch.
Psst! Kids love these make-ahead breakfast ideas.
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Elementary Age: Marshmallow Fruit Dip
Total Time
10 min
Servings
5 cups (40 servings)
From the Recipe Creator:
You can whip up this sweet and creamy dip in just 10 minutes. I like to serve it in a bowl surrounded by fresh-picked strawberries at spring brunches or luncheons. —Cindy Steffen, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 56 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 24mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Elementary Age: No-Bake Peanut Butter Treats
Total Time
10 min
Servings
15 treats
From the Recipe Creator:
Perfect for road trips, these peanut butter oatmeal balls won’t stick to your hands. Keep them in the refrigerator for portable snacks. —Sonia Rohda, Waverly, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 70 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 46mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
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Elementary Age: Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Total Time
10 min
Servings
10 servings (2-1/2 cups)
From the Recipe Creator:
I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without fries): 149 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
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Elementary Age: Fruity Peanut Butter Pitas
Total Time
5 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids ask for these pita sandwiches all the time. They haven’t noticed that as good as the pitas taste, they’re good for them too.—Kim Holmes, Emerald Park, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
1 pita half: 324 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 6g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 starch, 1 fruit, 1 lean meat.
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Elementary Age: Kiddie Crunch Mix
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This no-bake snack mix is a delightful treat for kids, and you can easily increase the amount to fit your needs. Place in individual bags, or pour some into colored ice cream cones for a fun presentation. —Kara de la Vega, Santa Rosa, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 266 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
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Raspberry Ice Cream
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 1-1/2 quarts
From the Recipe Creator:
"When our garden produces an abundance of raspberries, we know it's time to make this fruity frozen dessert," reports Diana Leskauskas of Chatham, New Jersey. "It's super in the summertime...and a treat throughout the year made with frozen raspberries." —Diana Leskauskas, Chatham, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 288 calories, 20g fat (13g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 25mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
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Elementary Age: Peanut Butter Granola Pinwheels
Total Time
10 min
Servings
16 pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
I came across this easy and tasty snack while searching online for healthy munchies for kids. Great for after school, it's really quick to make and filling enough to hold the kids until dinner. To satisfy heftier appetites or to serve as a power lunch, cut each tortilla into fewer pieces or provide one per child. The recipe is easy to increase as needed. —Mary Haluch, Ludlow, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 60 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 48mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
The whole family will love these at-home lunch recipes.
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Elementary Age: Rise and Shine Parfait
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Start your day with a smile. This fruit, yogurt and granola parfait is so easy to make. If you like, use whatever favorite fresh fruits are in season and are looking best at the supermarket. —Diana Laskaris, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 259 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein.
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Elementary Age: Ranch Snack Mix
Total Time
15 min
Servings
32 servings (6 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a wonderful fast-to-fix munchie. The recipe makes tons and doesn't involve any cooking. It's a cinch to package in individual snack bags, it keeps its crunch and it's a savory alternative to the cakes and pies usually offered at bake sales. —Linda Murphy, Pulaski, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 185 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 357mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Elementary Age: Pumpkin Pie Smoothies
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My pie-flavored smoothie is loaded with fruit. The spices make it all come together. —Karen Sikora, Dayton, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 256 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 86mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein.
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Elementary Age: Lemon-Apricot Fruit Pops
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 pops
From the Recipe Creator:
With just 31 calories, 4 teaspoons of sugar total and lots of vitamin C, this is one light and refreshing summer dessert everyone can find room for! —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 pop: 31 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fruit.
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Elementary Age: Snack Crackers
Total Time
5 min
Servings
12 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Our 13-year-old daughter, Dana, loves to make this crunchy and flavorful snack for us. Her four older brothers finish off a batch in no time. —Sue Manel, Milladore, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/3 cup: 237 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 780mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Elementary Age: Glazed Doughnut Holes
Total Time
5 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a simple recipe to create a colorful and fun breakfast—or snack! For the glaze, use any type of juice you like. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 doughnut hole: 225 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 69mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Elementary Age: PBJ on a Stick
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Take the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the go with these skewers. They also make easy snacks. —Sara Martin, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 skewers: 415 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 368mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein.
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Elementary Age: Flying Saucers
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4-6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These handy pita pocket sandwiches can be filled and served ready to eat... or you can set up a make-your-own buffet with ingredients that the kids can choose to suit themselves.
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 539 calories, 39g fat (12g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1647mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
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Elementary Age: Granola Trail Mix
Total Time
5 min
Servings
11 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
My family has always enjoyed this crunchy four-ingredient snack. When we go camping, each person includes one additional ingredient like mini marshmallows, corn chips or cookie pieces. The taste is never the same, and we're often surprised by the combinations. —Shelley Riddlespurger, Amarillo, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 331 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 73mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
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Elementary Age: Strawberry Lime Smoothies
Total Time
5 min
Servings
3 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Peak-of-freshness strawberries make this thinner, easy drink a summer staple. —Elizabeth Johnson, Greenville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 181 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 65mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (34g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fruit.
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Elementary Age: Turkey Ranch Wraps
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a cool idea that's ready to gobble up in no time. It's a terrific use for deli turkey. Just add lettuce, tomato, green pepper, shredded cheese and ranch dressing for a flavorful blend. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 403 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 601mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.
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Elementary Age: Texas Tumbleweeds
Total Time
20 min
Servings
about 4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Tumbleweeds blow across the roads in some parts of Texas, and I think these cute stacks look like them. I've been making these sweets with my sister for years. —Karen Lemay, Seabrook, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 76 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Middle School Age: Chicken & Bacon Roll-Ups
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My children like these roll-ups so much that they ask for them every day for lunch during the summer. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey breast, this is a delicious way to use it up. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 43 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
25/68
Middle School Age: Cheesy Quesadillas
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
We serve these quesadillas as chili dippers or load them up with salsa and sour cream for a super starter. —Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 111 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Middle School Age: Brownie Batter Dip
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m all about the sweeter side of dips, and this brownie-batter variety fits in with my life’s philosophy: Chocolate makes anything better. Grab some fruit, cookies or salty snacks and start dunking. —Mel Gunnell, Boise, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 118 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 56mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Middle School Age: Key Lime Pie Balls
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
The classic creamy filling, graham cracker crust and burst of lime are all mixed together in every bite of these rolled cookies. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 64 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Pizza Sandwich
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I give grilled cheese a special treatment by using slices of mozzarella cheese and adding delicious extras like pepperoni and fresh tomatoes. Dipped in warm pizza sauce, this will be a fast favorite! —Mary Monaco, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 495 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1121mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
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Middle School Age: Frozen Banana Cereal Pops
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 pops
From the Recipe Creator:
When we want a healthy snack, we dip bananas in yogurt, roll 'em in cereal, then freeze. Ta-da! —Scarlett Elrod, Newnan, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 pop: 106 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fruit.
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Middle School Age: Apple Yogurt Parfaits
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Get the morning started right with this super simple four-ingredient parfait. Try chunky or flavored applesauce for an easy variation. —Rebekah Radewahn, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 parfait: 158 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch.
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Middle School Age: Frozen Chocolate Monkey Treats
Total Time
20 min
Servings
1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone needs a fun, friendly way for kids to play with food. These rich bites are nutty and yummy. Just coat bananas in chocolate and dip them into peanuts, sprinkles or coconut. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 treat: 72 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Middle School Age: Easy Cake Mix Bars
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I take this dessert to work for Friday pick-me-ups. It's one of my favorite yellow cake bar recipes. I love to share them because they're so easy to eat, easy to make and easy on the wallet. —Amy Rose, Ballwin, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 bar: 113 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 102mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Middle School Age: BLT Wraps
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom and I used to make these easy wrap-ups for summer days at the lake with our entire family. These days, we love to bring them to picnics and days in the park. —Jonnah Burks, Brighton, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 409 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein.
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Middle School Age: Chocolaty Chips
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My two little guys can't get enough of this sweet and salty snack that uses just three ingredients and is ready to eat in 15 minutes. The boys like to drizzle on the melted chocolate. Sometimes we replace the potato chips with apple slices. —Jami Geittmann, Greendale, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 140 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 75mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
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Middle School Age: Cheddar Corn Dog Muffins
Total Time
25 min
Servings
9 muffins
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted to riff on hot dogs, so I made corn dog muffins. I added jalapenos to this kid-friendly recipe and won my husband over, too. —Becky Tarala, Palm Coast, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 muffin: 216 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 619mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein.
36/68
Middle School Age: Copycat Chicken Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Inspired by Chick-fil-A chicken salad, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, and your family will love it. The sweet pickle relish gives it that signature taste. I like to use a thick crusty oat bread. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 651 calories, 29g fat (5g saturated fat), 222mg cholesterol, 1386mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 4g fiber), 51g protein.
37/68
Middle School Age: Garlic Toast Pizzas
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
Between working full-time, going to school and raising three children, finding time-saving recipes that my family likes is one of my biggest challenges. These quick pizzas pack a huge amount of flavor. —Amy Grim, Chillicothe, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 281 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.
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Middle School Age: Frozen Berry & Yogurt Swirls
Total Time
15 min
Servings
10 pops
From the Recipe Creator:
I enjoy these frozen yogurt pops because they double as a healthy snack and a cool, creamy sweet treat. —Colleen Ludovice, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pop: 60 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 28mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
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Middle School Age: Cheese Fries
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe after my daughter had cheese fries at a restaurant and couldn't stop talking about them. She loves that I can fix them so quickly at home. Plus, the frozen fry packets can be refrigerated and reheated. —Melissa Tatum, Greensboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 129 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 255mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
40/68
Middle School Age: Grilled Hummus Turkey Sandwich
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this toasted sandwich last summer using homemade hummus and veggies from our garden. We really can't get enough! —Gunjan Gilbert, Franklin, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 458 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1183mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 28g protein.
41/68
Middle School Age: Monkey Bread Biscuits
Total Time
20 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with an easy, savory—instead of sweet—dinner version of monkey bread featuring garlic and Italian seasoning. —Dana Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 biscuit: 159 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 418mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
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Middle School Age: Yogurt & Honey Fruit Cups
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt, this is guaranteed to disappear fast from your breakfast table. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 97 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 22mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 fruit, 1/2 starch.
43/68
Middle School Age: Quick Taco Wraps
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I was running late one night, so I shopped in my own fridge and came up with ingredients that became taco wraps. Everybody at the table was a happy camper. —Katie Mitschelen, La Porte, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 533 calories, 28g fat (13g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 1538mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 8g fiber), 14g protein.
44/68
Middle School Age: Lunch Box Pizzas
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When you have these fun-to-make mini pizzas, it's no challenge finding lunch fare that the kids enjoy. Plus they pack nicely in sandwich bags and travel well, so there's no mess. —Rhonda Cliett, Belton, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 94 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 292mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
45/68
High School Age: Fresh Strawberry Breakfast Tacos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When our son was growing up, this was one of his favorite breakfasts. I've used low-fat ingredients in the past with good results, too.—Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 taco: 225 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
46/68
High School Age: Bacon Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
It's hard to resist a crescent roll, bacon and cream cheese in one bite! Kids, friends, everyone will scarf down these cream cheese pinwheels. Now I bake a double batch whenever we have a get-together. —Krista Munson, Sharpsburg, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 58 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
47/68
High School Age: Hasselback Tomato Clubs
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This no-fuss, no-bread riff on a classic is perfect during tomato season. Make it for lunch or pair it with pasta salad for a light dinner. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2 stuffed tomatoes: 272 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 803mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
48/68
High School Age: Turkey Wafflewiches
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Who knew sandwiches could be so fun? This medley from our Test Kitchen will bring smiles to the whole table with its fantastic taste and whimsical fun. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 407 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 1179mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
49/68
High School Age: Avocado Quesadillas
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Avocados give quesadillas some nutritional value and, fortunately, my son likes them. Thinly slice the avocado, and add chicken or beef for extra protein. —Debbie Limas, North Andover, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
2 quesadillas (calculated without additional pico de gallo): 611 calories, 37g fat (15g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 12g fiber), 20g protein.
50/68
High School Age: Turkey & Apricot Wraps
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
For these wraps, I combined the traditional Southern appetizer of jam and cream cheese with the turkey, apple and Brie sandwiches we ate at my bridal luncheon. I like to sneak fresh spinach into recipes because it has such a mild flavor. —Kim Beavers, North August, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 312 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 655mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
51/68
High School Age: Cheeseburger Cups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a terrific recipe for moms with young kids and busy lives. This simple, inexpensive dish is made with handy ingredients and takes just a short time. Best of all, kids will go crazy for these darling dinner bites! —Jeri Millhouse, Ashland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheeseburger cup: 299 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
52/68
High School Age: Microwave Egg Sandwich
Total Time
15 min
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're looking for a grab-and-go breakfast for busy days, this high-protein sandwich is low in fat and keeps me full all morning. Plus, it's only about 200 calories! —Brenda Otto, Reedsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 218 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 751mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
53/68
High School Age: Game-Night Nacho Pizza
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Some like it hot with jalapenos; others like it cool with a dollop of sour cream. But one thing’s for sure: This is “nacho” ordinary pizza night. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 370 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 1103mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
54/68
High School Age: Peanut Butter Oatmeal
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My son and I eat this peanut butter oatmeal recipe every day for breakfast. It's a hearty, healthy way to jump start our morning. — Elisabeth Reitenbach, Terryville, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 323 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 226mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
55/68
High School Age: Spiced Sweet Potato Fries
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A spicy homemade seasoning blend shakes up everyone’s favorite finger food in this rendition of sweet potato fries. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 129 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 241mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 0 protein.
56/68
High School Age: Confetti Cake Batter Cookies
Total Time
25 min
Servings
about 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Mom and I took up cake decorating. Funfetti was our favorite cake, so we used the mix to make cutout cookies. Plain or decorated, they’re a fave at parties. —Danielle DeMarco, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 102 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
57/68
High School Age: Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This quick recipe makes it easy to prepare air-fryer French toast sticks. Have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They're also wonderful for buffets and eating on the go. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3 sticks: 184 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 253mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
58/68
High School Age: Cheesy Roast Beef Pinwheels
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Take lunch to the next level with savory Cheesy Roast Beef Pinwheels. Rolled in crescent dough, cut into spirals and baked, they’re a tasty twist on the traditional roast beef sandwich. —Holley Grainger, Birmingham, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 203 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 502mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
59/68
High School Age: Bacon Breakfast Pizza
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I used to make this bacon breakfast pizza for my morning drivers when I worked at a delivery place. And they just loved it. Breakfast pizza is a quick and easy eye-opener that appeals to all ages. —Cathy Shortall, Easton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 352 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 842mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
60/68
High School Age: Rotisserie Chicken Panini
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This ooey-gooey, melty delight is packed with bacon, chicken, cheese and just enough lemon to tickle your taste buds. Other chicken panini recipes don't compare!—Terri McCarty, Oro Grande, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 653 calories, 42g fat (16g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 996mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.
61/68
High School Age: Quick Icebox Sandwiches
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother liked making these cool, creamy treats when I was growing up in the States because they're so quick to fix. Then I made them for my three kids.—Sandy Armijo, Naples, Italy
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 142 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 131mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
62/68
High School Age: Waffle-Iron Pizzas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These little pizza pockets put together using the waffle maker are a fun mashup. Try your favorite toppings or even breakfast fillings like ham and eggs. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 pizza (calculated without sauce): 461 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
63/68
High School Age: Smoked Gouda Veggie Melt
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After a long day of teaching, I like to make these veggie-packed grilled-cheese sandwiches. My 8-year-old daughter is a big fan, too. —Charlie Herzog, West Brookfield, Vermont. Learn how to teach your kids to tie shoes.
Nutrition Facts:
2 open-faced sandwiches: 523 calories, 37g fat (9g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 695mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
64/68
High School Age: Slow-Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Total Time
3 hours 15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone who tries this dessert falls in love with it. Using a slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze. —Latona Dwyer, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 215 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 254mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
65/68
High School Age: Hot Dog Roll-Ups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Not only do my grandchildren love these cheese-filled hot dogs, they enjoy helping put the meal together, too. It's the perfect solution when you need a last-minute lunch. —Lyletta Searle, Morgan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 325 calories, 25g fat (10g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 797mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
66/68
Tuna Melt
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When our children were young, I often fixed these warm, crunchy sandwiches. They go well with chips and a salad for a quick lunch. —Carole Anhalt, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 363 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 629mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein.
67/68
High School Age: Berry Nectarine Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been making this recipe for years. Whenever my family has a summer get-together, everyone requests it. The nectarines and berries look beautiful together, and the topping is the perfect accent. —Mindee Myers, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 109 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 46mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
68/68
High School Age: Tomato & Avocado Sandwiches
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a vegetarian, and this is a tasty, quick and healthy lunch I could eat for every meal. At my house, we call these sandwiches HATS: hummus, avocado, tomato and shallots. These are ingredients I almost always have on hand. —Sarah Jaraha, Moorestown, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 278 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 379mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
