19 Healthy Snacks for Autistic Kids

Snacking is an essential part of daily life, especially for children, as it helps maintain energy levels and supports growth. For autistic kids, snacks can play a crucial role in meeting their sensory needs and dietary preferences. Healthy snacks are not just about nutrition; they can also be a source of comfort and routine.

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In this blog, we’ll explore 19 healthy snack options that are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. These snacks cater to a variety of tastes and textures, making them suitable for autistic children who may have specific preferences. From sweet treats like chocolate-covered dates to savory options like Vietnamese shrimp salad rolls, there’s something here for everyone. Each recipe is designed to be simple, using wholesome ingredients that promote well-being without compromising on taste.

Peanut Butter Protein Balls: Quick and Delicious!

These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost. Made with peanut butter, oats, and honey, they’re soft, chewy, and packed with protein. The best part? They’re no-bake, so you can whip them up in minutes. Roll them into small balls and refrigerate until firm. They’re ideal for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds (optional)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine oats and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oats and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

For a simple, delicious treat that aligns with healthy eating habits, check out our No Bake Cookies recipe, which is a great option for busy parents looking for quick, kid-friendly snacks, as highlighted in our guide on Healthy Snacks for Autistic Kids.

Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Pops: Easy Blender Recipe

These popsicles are a fun and healthy way to enjoy a sweet treat. Blending bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa gives a creamy base that’s frozen into popsicle molds. They’re perfect for hot days and provide a good dose of potassium and protein.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 10 popsicle sticks

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add peanut butter, cocoa powder, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving space at the top.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 4-5 hours.

DATE SNICKERS (4 INGREDIENT CHOCOLATE COVERED DATES)

These chocolate-covered dates are a sweet and indulgent treat that’s surprisingly healthy. Stuffed with peanut butter and coated in dark chocolate, they’re rich in fiber and protein. They make a great alternative to candy.

Ingredients:

– 12 Medjool dates
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Pit the dates and fill each with a small amount of peanut butter.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
3. Dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
4. Place on parchment paper and refrigerate until set.

VIETNAMESE SHRIMP SALAD ROLLS WITH PEANUT SAUCE

These fresh and flavorful rolls are a fun snack that’s both healthy and interactive. Filled with shrimp, vegetables, and rice noodles, they’re served with a creamy peanut sauce for dipping. They’re a great way to get in some protein and veggies.

Ingredients:

– 1 package rice paper wrappers
– 1 cup cooked shrimp
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup water
– Chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Fill a large bowl with warm water for softening the rice paper.
3. Lay a rice paper wrapper in the water for 10 seconds, then place on a clean surface.
4. Arrange a small portion of noodles, shrimp, carrots, and bean sprouts in the center.
5. Fold the bottom half up, then fold the sides and roll up tightly.
6. For the sauce, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and water until smooth.
7. Serve the rolls with the peanut sauce for dipping.

Peanut Butter Cookies (No Egg)

These simple cookies are a classic favorite made with just two ingredients. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect for a quick snack. The best part? They’re egg-free, making them a great option for those with allergies.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter and sugar until well combined.
3. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
5. Flatten slightly with a fork.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars

These homemade granola bars are a perfect fall treat. Made with rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and spices, they’re chewy, flavorful, and packed with fiber. They’re also customizable with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, honey, and brown sugar.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared pan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Flaxseed Cookies

These cookies are a healthy alternative to traditional ones, made with ground flaxseed as a replacement for eggs. They’re soft, nutty, and packed with omega-3s. Perfect for a guilt-free snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup ground flaxseed
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix ground flaxseed and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Healthy Blueberry Crisp Granola Bars

These granola bars are a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. Made with rolled oats, blueberries, and a hint of lemon, they’re chewy, flavorful, and packed with fiber. They’re also easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried blueberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, blueberries, and almonds if using.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

BROWN SUGAR HONEY GLAZED CARROTS

These glazed carrots are a sweet and healthy snack that’s perfect for kids. Made with brown sugar and honey, they’re sticky, caramel-like, and full of flavor. They’re a great way to get in some veggies.

Ingredients:

– 4 large carrots
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice the carrots into sticks or rounds.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the carrots to the skillet and toss to coat with the glaze.
5. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.

RAINBOW FRUIT SKEWERS

These colorful fruit skewers are a fun and healthy snack that’s perfect for kids. Made with a variety of fresh fruits, they’re light, refreshing, and packed with vitamins. They’re also easy to customize with your favorite fruits.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup grapes, halved
– 1 cup pineapple, chunks
– 1 cup kiwi, sliced
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 10 bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Wash and prepare all the fruits as specified.
2. Thread a few pieces of each fruit onto each skewer, arranging in a colorful pattern.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

BANANA ALMOND FLOUR MUFFINS

These muffins are a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. Made with almond flour and bananas, they’re moist, flavorful, and gluten-free. They’re also a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork.
3. Add almond flour, coconut sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

SAUTÉED CHICKPEAS

These sautéed chickpeas are a crunchy and flavorful snack that’s packed with protein and fiber. Made with simple spices, they’re a great alternative to chips or other processed snacks.

Ingredients:

– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving.

Chestnut Hummus

This chestnut hummus is a unique and delicious twist on traditional hummus. Made with roasted chestnuts, it’s creamy, nutty, and packed with fiber. Serve it with veggie sticks or pita bread for a healthy snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup roasted chestnuts
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water (or more as needed)

Instructions:

1. Peel the roasted chestnuts and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Serve with veggie sticks or pita bread.

SUGAR COOKIES IN AIR FRYER

These sugar cookies are a fun and easy snack that’s made in the air fryer. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. The best part? They’re made with minimal ingredients and no eggs.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
5. Place the cookies in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool slightly before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Protein Overnight Oats Without Protein Powder

These overnight oats are a delicious and protein-packed snack that’s perfect for meal prep. Made with rolled oats, milk, and chia seeds, they’re creamy, nutritious, and customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Toppings of choice (e.g., fruit, nuts, seeds)

Instructions:

1. In a jar or container, combine oats, milk, chia seeds, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
3. In the morning, top with your favorite toppings and serve.

BISCOFF BITES

These Biscoff bites are a delicious and easy snack that’s perfect for Biscoff lovers. Made with crushed Biscoff cookies, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, they’re creamy, crunchy, and indulgent. They’re also no-bake, making them a great option for a quick treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups crushed Biscoff cookies
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup melted white chocolate (optional)
– Sprinkles or crushed cookies for decorating

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together crushed Biscoff cookies and powdered sugar.
2. Add softened cream cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. If desired, dip the tops in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with decorations.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

“Healthy” Seedy Currant Cookies

These cookies are a healthy and delicious snack that’s packed with seeds and currants. Made with whole wheat flour, oats, and a variety of seeds, they’re chewy, nutty, and full of fiber. They’re also a great option for a quick energy boost.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup currants
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, currants, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

EASY COCONUT BALLS RECIPE – HEALTHY NO BAKE SNOWBALLS!

These coconut balls are a simple and delicious no-bake snack that’s perfect for a quick treat. Made with shredded coconut, oats, and peanut butter, they’re chewy, flavorful, and packed with fiber. They’re also easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut and oats.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the coconut and oats, stirring until well combined.
4. Fold in chia seeds if using.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

NO BAKE PEANUT BUTTER OATMEAL BALLS

These no-bake peanut butter oatmeal balls are a classic snack that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. Made with peanut butter, oats, and honey, they’re chewy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick energy boost.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine oats and chia seeds if using.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oats and stir until well combined.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

These 19 healthy snacks for autistic kids are not only delicious but also cater to various dietary needs and preferences. Whether your child prefers sweet treats or savory options, there’s something here for everyone. With easy-to-follow recipes and wholesome ingredients, these snacks are perfect for promoting healthy eating habits and providing the energy your child needs throughout the day.