20 Easy Gluten Free Snacks For Kids

Are you looking for delicious gluten free snacks for kids? You’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the world of gluten-free snacks, exploring options that your kids will love, whether they have gluten intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or celiac disease.

What Does Gluten-Free Mean?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For some people, especially kids, consuming gluten can cause health issues. While some families opt for gluten-free diets by choice, many kids must avoid gluten due to conditions like celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Planning and preparing gluten-free snacks for kids can be a challenge, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a roundup of tasty gluten-free snack options that your kids will love.

Are Gluten Free Snacks Healthy?

Yes, gluten-free snacks can be healthy! When choosing gluten-free snacks for kids, look for options with minimal added sugar, plenty of nutrients, and whole ingredients. Avoid snacks with a lot of processed ingredients, as they can lack essential vitamins and minerals. Here are some great tips for picking healthy gluten-free snacks:

1. Check the label: Ensure the snack is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
2. Watch for added sugar: Opt for snacks with low added sugar to keep things healthy.
3. Look for whole foods: Naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are great choices.

Best Gluten Free Snacks For Kids

Here’s a list of the best gluten-free snacks for kids, combining both store-bought and homemade options. Each snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep your little ones happy and healthy.

1. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

Apples are naturally gluten free, and pairing them with peanut butter makes for a fun snack that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. Just make sure the peanut butter is gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1 apple
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free peanut butter

Instructions

1. Wash and slice the apple into thin wedges.
2. Spread peanut butter on each slice.
3. Serve immediately.

2. Gluten Free Crackers with Cheese

Gluten-free crackers are a great alternative to traditional crackers. Pair them with cheese for a delicious and satisfying snack.

Ingredients

• Gluten-free crackers
• Cheese slices

Instructions

1. Arrange gluten-free crackers on a plate.
2. Top each cracker with a slice of cheese.
3. Serve as a quick and easy snack.

3. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes are a fantastic gluten-free snack option. They are rich in vitamins and minerals and can be baked into crispy, delicious fries.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into thin fries.
3. Toss the fries in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

4. Yogurt with Gluten-Free Granola

Yogurt topped with gluten-free granola makes for a tasty and nutritious snack. Look for granola without added sugar to keep it healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup gluten-free granola

Instructions

1. Scoop the yogurt into a bowl.
2. Sprinkle the granola on top.
3. Enjoy! Easy enough!

5. Gluten Free Trail Mix

Create your own trail mix with gluten free options like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and gluten-free chocolate chips. It’s a perfect snack for kids on the go, I pack this for Mason’s lunch at school every week!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup gluten-free chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Mix well.
3. Store in an airtight container for a quick snack.

6. Carrot Sticks with Hummus

Carrot sticks are naturally gluten-free and full of vitamins. Pair them with hummus for a delicious, protein-packed snack.

Ingredients

• 4 large carrots
• 1/2 cup hummus

Instructions

1. Wash and peel the carrots.
2. Cut the carrots into sticks.
3. Serve with hummus for dipping.

7. Gluten Free Muffins

Gluten-free muffins can be a fun snack or breakfast option. You can make them at home using gluten-free flour and your favorite fruits or nuts.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 cup blueberries (or any fruit/nuts)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the blueberries.
5. Pour the batter into muffin tins.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

8. Rice Cakes with Avocado

Rice cakes are a simple and gluten-free snack. Top them with avocado for healthy fats and a tasty treat.

Ingredients

• 2 rice cakes
• 1 avocado
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Slice the avocado and mash it in a bowl.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on the rice cakes.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

9. Popcorn

Popcorn is naturally gluten-free and can be a fun snack. Just be sure to check the seasoning for any hidden gluten ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pot.
3. Shake the pot occasionally until popping slows down.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt.

10. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein and are naturally gluten-free. They make a perfect snack to keep kids full and energized.

Ingredients

• 4 eggs

Instructions

1. Place the eggs in a pot and cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and cool in ice water before peeling.

11. Gluten-Free Lemon Bars

For a sweet treat, try these gluten free lemon bars. They are delicious and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix 1 cup flour, butter, and powdered sugar for the crust.
3. Press into a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes.
4. Mix the remaining ingredients and pour over the crust.
5. Bake for another 20-25 minutes until set.

12. Cucumber Slices with Cream Cheese

Cucumbers are naturally gluten-free and make a refreshing snack. Pair them with cream cheese for added flavor and creaminess. Check out these healthy cucumber snacks for more ideas.

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1/4 cup cream cheese

Instructions

1. Wash and slice the cucumber into rounds.
2. Spread cream cheese on each slice.
3. Serve immediately.

13. Gluten-Free Cranberry Oat Bars

These gluten free cranberry oat bars are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the go. They are packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free oats
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Press the mixture into a baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Let cool before cutting into bars.

14. Fresh Fruit Salad

A mix of fresh, naturally gluten-free fruits can make for a colorful and tasty snack. Add some yogurt or a sprinkle of gluten-free granola for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 cup grapes

Instructions

1. Wash and cut all the fruit.
2. Mix in a large bowl.
3. Serve with yogurt or granola, if desired.

15. Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten free chocolate chip cookies are a delicious treat that kids will love. You can find gluten-free cookie mixes at the grocery store or make your own at home with this recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups gluten-free chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugars until creamy.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla, then the dry ingredients.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips.
6. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 9-11 minutes until golden brown.

16. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a convenient and naturally gluten-free snack option. Just be mindful of added sugars in some varieties.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 cup dried apples
• 1 cup dried mango

Instructions

1. Place dried fruit in a bowl.
2. Serve as a quick snack.

17. Gluten Free Smoothie

Blend up a gluten free smoothie with gluten free ingredients such as fruits, yogurt, and a splash of juice for a nutritious and refreshing snack.

This is one I make all of the time!

Ingredients

• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup frozen berries
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup orange juice

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a glass and serve.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Snack Ideas

Looking for even more gluten-free snack options? Here are a few more ideas to keep in mind:

• Gluten-Free Pretzels: A crunchy and fun snack.
• Celery with Peanut Butter: A classic combo that’s always a hit.
• Homemade Granola Bars: Made with gluten-free oats and your favorite add-ins.

With these gluten-free snacks, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your kids happy and healthy. Whether you’re looking for store-bought gluten-free snacks or homemade creations, there’s something here for everyone.

Enjoy these delicious gluten-free options and make snack time a breeze!