Planning a backyard picnic that’s fun and tasty for kids? Look no further! Here’s a list of 15 kid-friendly foods that are sure to keep everyone happy and satisfied while enjoying the great outdoors. From classic favorites to fresh twists, these bites will make your picnic a hit!
Mini Sandwich Skewers
Mini sandwich skewers are a fun and playful way to make sandwiches more exciting for kids. These colorful skewers combine bite-sized pieces of bread, cheese, meats, and veggies, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing. They offer a delightful crunch from the fresh ingredients and a burst of flavors that kids love.
Creating mini sandwich skewers is simple and adaptable to any preference. You can easily customize them with your child’s favorite ingredients, ensuring they get a nutritious meal while having a great time. Plus, they’re perfect for outdoor gatherings, making them a go-to choice for backyard picnics!
Ingredients
- 12 slices of bread (any type)
- 6 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your choice)
- 6 slices of deli meat (ham, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup assorted vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or mustard (optional)
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the bread, cheese, and deli meat into small squares or circles. Slice the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble Skewers: Take a skewer and start layering the ingredients. Alternate between bread, cheese, meat, and vegetables until the skewer is filled.
- Spread the Sauce: If using mayonnaise or mustard, spread it on the bread pieces before assembling for extra flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and enjoy them fresh, perfect for a picnic!
Pasta Salad with Colorful Veggies
This pasta salad is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for a backyard picnic. With vibrant veggies and a light dressing, it’s a great way to get kids excited about eating their greens. The combination of flavors makes it refreshing and satisfying, and it’s so easy to whip up that even little hands can help!
Simply cook the pasta, chop up the veggies, and mix it all together with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of vinegar. You can even customize it by adding some cheese or protein if you like. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta (any shape you prefer)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of water and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and let it cool.
- Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cools, chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chopped vegetables. Add olives if desired.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper. Toss everything until well mixed.
- Serve: Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving, or serve immediately. Enjoy your colorful pasta salad!
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Chicken salad lettuce wraps are a fun and healthy twist on traditional chicken salad. They offer a refreshing crunch with each bite and are easy for kids to enjoy. The creamy and savory chicken mixture pairs perfectly with the crisp lettuce leaves, making for a light yet satisfying meal.
This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s perfect for a backyard picnic, allowing your little ones to enjoy a hands-on meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup grapes, halved
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 head of romaine or butter lettuce, leaves separated
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, grapes, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Wash and separate the lettuce leaves, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Spoon the chicken salad mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty, crunchy wraps!
Homemade Fruit Popsicles
Homemade fruit popsicles are a delightful treat that kids will love. They are sweet, refreshing, and bursting with real fruit flavors. Plus, making them at home is a breeze, allowing you to control the ingredients and avoid added sugars or artificial flavors.
These popsicles are perfect for a sunny picnic day. You can mix and match your favorite fruits, creating colorful and tasty combinations that are fun to eat. They are not only delicious but also a healthy option for kids. Let’s dive into how to make your own!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, mango, or your favorite)
- 1 cup fruit juice (orange juice, apple juice, or coconut water)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash your fruit thoroughly. If using large fruits like strawberries or mangoes, chop them into smaller pieces.
- Blend: In a blender, combine the fresh fruit and fruit juice. Add honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Blend until smooth.
- Pour: Fill your popsicle molds with the fruit mixture, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
- Insert Sticks: Place sticks in the center of each mold and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
- Unmold: To remove the popsicles, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds, then gently pull them out.
- Serve: Enjoy your homemade fruit popsicles on a hot day or pack them for a picnic!
Cheese and Crackers Platter
A cheese and crackers platter is a kid-friendly favorite that’s both easy to prepare and fun to eat. With a variety of colorful cheeses, crunchy crackers, and even some fresh veggies, this snack is perfect for a sunny day outside. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that kids love.
This snack is not only quick to assemble but also allows for creativity. You can mix and match different types of cheeses, from mild cheddar to creamy mozzarella, paired with an assortment of crunchy crackers. Add your child’s favorite fruits or veggies for extra flair!
Ingredients
- 1 block of cheddar cheese, sliced
- 1 block of mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 box of assorted crackers
- Cherry tomatoes, for garnish
- Olive oil or balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Slice the cheddar and mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a large platter.
- Arrange the Crackers: Place the assorted crackers around the cheese, allowing space for dipping or stacking.
- Add Garnishes: Scatter cherry tomatoes across the platter and drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze, if desired. Add fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve: Encourage the kids to mix and match their favorites, creating fun combinations of cheese and crackers!
DIY Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas are a fun and tasty way to get kids involved in meal prep. These bite-sized delights can be customized with various toppings, making them a hit at any backyard picnic. Their crispy crust paired with gooey cheese and fresh toppings makes for a satisfying treat that everyone will enjoy.
Making mini pizzas is simple and quick. You can use pre-made dough or even pita bread as a base, allowing kids to unleash their creativity with toppings like pepperoni, veggies, or even pineapple. This hands-on approach not only makes meal time exciting, but it also encourages kids to try new flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced olives
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Cut into small circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Assemble the mini pizzas: Place the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on each circle, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then add your choice of toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, and olives.
- Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush the edges of the dough with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil, and let cool slightly before serving.
Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Fruit and cheese kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a variety of flavors in one bite. They’re sweet, savory, and perfect for kids, making them an excellent choice for a picnic. These kabobs are super easy to put together, allowing kids to get involved in the kitchen, making it a perfect family activity.
With a mix of fresh fruits and your favorite cheeses, these kabobs are not only colorful but also nutritious. You can customize them with seasonal fruits like strawberries, melon, and grapes, paired with cheese cubes such as cheddar or mozzarella. Serve them with a dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup cubed melon (any type)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup cheese cubes (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit and cheese: Wash and cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces, and cut the cheese into cubes.
- Assemble the kabobs: On skewers, alternate threading pieces of fruit and cheese. Get creative with the order!
- Garnish: Add a few mint leaves between the pieces for a fresh flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the kabobs on a platter and enjoy fresh or chilled.
Veggie Cups with Hummus
Veggie cups with hummus are a delightful and healthy option for any picnic. They offer a colorful array of fresh vegetables paired with creamy hummus, making for a tasty and nutritious snack. The combination of crunchy veggies and smooth dip is sure to please kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for outdoor gatherings.
This recipe is super simple to prepare. Just grab your favorite vegetables, cut them into sticks, and arrange them in cups with a generous scoop of hummus at the bottom. It’s a fun way for kids to enjoy their veggies, and the presentation is so appealing!
Ingredients
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cucumber, cut into sticks
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into sticks
- 2 carrots, cut into sticks
- 1 celery stalk, cut into sticks
- 1 zucchini, cut into sticks
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cups: Take small cups or jars and add a few tablespoons of hummus to the bottom of each.
- Cut the Veggies: Wash and cut the vegetables into sticks or strips. Aim for about 3-4 inches long for easy dipping.
- Assemble: Stand the vegetable sticks upright in the hummus-filled cups. Mix and match colors for a vibrant display.
- Garnish: If desired, add a sprig of fresh herbs on top for a nice touch.
- Serve: Arrange the veggie cups on a platter and enjoy them with family and friends!
Baked Chicken Tenders
Baked chicken tenders are a delightful and tasty option for kids. They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a hit for any picnic. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
This recipe ensures that you can whip up a batch in no time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day with your family and friends. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ve got a meal that’s both fun and satisfying.
Mini Pancake Stacks
Mini pancake stacks are a delightful treat that’s both fun to eat and easy to make. They’re fluffy, sweet, and perfect for little hands to grab. Kids love stacking them high and drizzling syrup on top, making breakfast feel like a special occasion.
This recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. You can customize these stacks with various toppings like fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips. They are ideal for a backyard picnic and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour small amounts of batter onto the skillet to form mini pancakes.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Stack the mini pancakes on a plate, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh fruits as toppings before serving.
Yogurt Parfaits in Jars
Yogurt parfaits are a delightful and nutritious treat perfect for any picnic. They combine layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and fresh fruits, creating a fun and colorful dessert that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This recipe is simple to whip up, and it allows for plenty of customization!
Each bite is a burst of flavor and texture, making yogurt parfaits a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy ingredients. Pack them in jars for easy transport, and you’ll have a deliciously satisfying snack ready to enjoy outdoors. Plus, they’re visually appealing, making them a hit at any picnic gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain or flavored yogurt
- 1 cup granola
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Layer the Ingredients: In a jar, add a layer of yogurt at the bottom. Follow with a layer of granola, then add a layer of mixed berries.
- Repeat: Continue layering in this order until the jar is full, finishing with a layer of berries on top.
- Add Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top if desired.
- Seal and Chill: Cover the jars with lids and chill them until you’re ready to head out for your picnic.
Popcorn Snack Bags
Popcorn snack bags are a fun and easy treat for any backyard picnic. They are light, crunchy, and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you prefer classic buttered popcorn or a sweet caramel variety, these snack bags are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Making popcorn snack bags is super simple and requires minimal ingredients. Just pop some popcorn, season it to your liking, and package it in cute bags for everyone to enjoy. They’re great for sharing and add a playful touch to your picnic spread.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (optional)
- Snack bags or paper cups for serving
Instructions
- Pop the Popcorn: In a large pot or popcorn maker, pop the popcorn kernels according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Season: After popping, drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn and sprinkle with salt. If you’re using cheese or caramel, add those too and toss gently to coat.
- Bag It Up: Once seasoned, scoop the popcorn into snack bags or paper cups for serving.
- Enjoy: Share the popcorn bags with your picnic pals and enjoy a tasty snack!
Smoothie Bowls with Toppings
Smoothie bowls are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy your favorite fruits and nutrients, especially on a warm day. They are creamy, delicious, and can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit every taste. This recipe is super simple to make, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
The base usually consists of blended fruits like bananas, berries, and yogurt, which creates a thick smoothie texture. Then, the fun starts with toppings! Kids can choose their favorites from granola, nuts, seeds, and a rainbow of fruits, making it a delightful, interactive snack for a picnic.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1 cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup granola
- Fresh fruit for topping (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, etc.)
- Nuts or seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Blend the bananas, frozen berries, yogurt, and honey until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the smoothie mixture into bowls.
- Let the kids add their favorite toppings like granola, fresh fruit, and nuts.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Banana and Peanut Butter Wraps
Banana and peanut butter wraps are a delightful and nutritious treat that kids absolutely love. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the sweet banana, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. This recipe is not only tasty but also super easy to make, making it a perfect option for your next picnic.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip these wraps up in no time. They make for a filling snack that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. Plus, they are portable and require no cooking, making them ideal for outdoor fun.
Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 4 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Chia seeds or granola (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly on each tortilla.
- Layer the sliced bananas on top of the peanut butter.
- If desired, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the bananas for added sweetness.
- Sprinkle chia seeds or granola for extra texture.
- Roll the tortillas tightly to enclose the filling.
- Slice each wrap into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit
Chocolate-dipped fruit is a delightful and simple treat that kids love! The combination of sweet ripe strawberries and bananas coated in rich chocolate makes for a snack that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows little ones to get involved in the kitchen, making it a fun family activity.
These treats are perfect for a backyard picnic, bringing a touch of sweetness to your spread. You can experiment with different types of chocolate and even add toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts for an extra crunch. Here’s how to make these tasty chocolate-dipped fruits.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 2 bananas, peeled and cut into slices
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Dip the Fruit: Holding each strawberry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. For banana slices, dip each piece into the chocolate using a fork.
- Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle on some toppings while the chocolate is still wet.
- Set the Treats: Place the dipped fruit on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
- Serve: Once set, arrange your chocolate-dipped fruit on a platter and enjoy!
