Feeling peckish and need to fill a gap between meals? Snacks don’t need to be loaded with salt and sugar; there are plenty of balanced and nutritious options to keep you going until your next meal.
You can even whip up your own healthy homemade snacks straight from your kitchen, so you’re know exactly what you’re eating. You don’t need to be an experienced cook either, there are plenty of recipes out there that even kitchen novices can put together.
Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth and can’t resist reaching for the chocolate, or if more savoury snacks are your bag, here are some of the best healthy homemade snack recipes that you can cook at home.
15 healthy homemade snacks
Hummus and crudites
Hummus is easier to make from scratch than you might think - you only need five ingredients and it can be whipped up in just ten minutes. The protein-packed chickpeas in this recipe are sure to keep hunger at bay and you can also get one of your five-a-day if you serve with crudites like carrots, celery and red pepper.
Banana nice cream
Banana 'nice' cream is a healthy, dairy-free alternative to traditional ice cream and couldn't be simpler to make. All you need to do is blend some frozen bananas, add to a bowl and enjoy. There are plenty of flavour variations you could try too; a dash of cinnamon will make it even more delicious or you could add some berries for a fruity treat.
Baked sweet potato crisps
If you find yourself reaching for a bag of crisps when you're hungry, why not give this healthier baked version a go? They're much lower in fat and sweet potatoes are a great source of fibre and vitamins. Add your favourite seasonings to spice things up.
Granola bars
Granola bars are the perfect healthy grab-and-go breakfast if you're in a rush as oats provide a slow release of energy throughout the day but they also make a great afternoon snack with a cup of tea. This recipe doesn't require baking and can be customised by adding your favourite granola.
Strawberry and avocado smoothie
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to add more fruit and veg to your diet, a delicious smoothie is the perfect option. This recipe uses low sugar strawberries and creamy avocado for healthy fats but you could change it up by adding your favourite fruits.
Cacao coconut bliss balls
These nut-free cacao and coconut bliss balls are the perfect alternative when you find yourself craving chocolate. Rolled oats and dates provide fibre energy, while the maple syrup and dessicated coconut keep things sweet.
Mini egg muffins
You only need three ingredients to whip up these quick and tasty egg muffins but the great thing is the recipe can be easily adapted to your taste. These can also be frozen so bake up a big batch and keep them on hand for a nutritious snack whenever you need it.
Banana and courgette bread
Sweet treats can be made healthier by sneaking in an extra portion of veg but you won't even know it's there. The added courgette in this healthy banana bread recipes not only keeps things moist but adds a nutritious boost.
Homemade popcorn
Homemade air-popped popcorn is a great healthy homemade snack, as it’s full of fibre and and naturally low in fat. Fancy making it a little more luxurious? Drizzle over some melted chocolate, peanut butter or lightly toss in some parmesan, although remember, don’t go overboard!
Apple and cinnamon muffins
Are you a fan of cake? Then you’ll definitely want to give these tasty muffins from The Body Coach a go! They’re packed with protein and the ground almonds help to give them a moist texture. You’ll also be pleased to know the creamy topping isn’t butter icing, but Greek yoghurt with a little maple syrup mixed in.
Homemade blueberry smoothie
A homemade smoothie is a great healthy snack, especially if you’re on the go or pushed for time and need something quick and easy to make. This blueberry recipe by Lisa Bryan only contains five ingredients, not to mention blueberries are a great antioxidant.
Peanut butter cup energy balls
We love how easy and delicious this berry yogurt bark by 5 Dollar Dinners really is. It’s sweet, low in calories and perfect for nibbling on in between meals.
Peanut butter cup energy balls
Apparently, these five ingredient energy bite balls by the Minimalist Baker taste just like peanut butter cups - we’re sold.
Banana chips
Making these banana chips by Diet Hoodcouldn't be easier, simply swirl some chopped up bits of banana in lemon juice, bake in the oven and you're left with a sweet, guilt-free snack.
hard boiled egg healthy homemade snack
Ready in around seven to eight minutes, a hard boiled egg is a great low-carb, high protein snack. To bulk it out a little, why not serve it alongside a lightly dressed salad?