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Finger foods to start with for baby


Best Finger Foods for Babies: The Ultimate Guide

How exciting that your baby is about to graduate from mushy foods to finger foods! This is a big step in your little one’s development. However, you may be wondering when’s the right time to start finger foods, and how to tell that your baby is ready. We’ll answer all these questions and more, plus give you a list of the best finger foods to introduce to your baby first.

Introducing Finger Foods to Your Baby

So, when can babies eat finger foods? You can start to give your baby finger foods around the time they’re able to sit up independently and can bring their hands to their mouth. This may happen between the ages of 8 months old and 9 months old, but your baby may be ready a little sooner or later than this time. Around this time, you may also notice that your baby is developing their pincer grasp and may be making chewing motions. These are both great indications that your baby’s ready for finger foods. Moreover, using their fingers to pick up foods will further develop your baby’s fine motor skills. Some parents who adopt the baby-led weaning approach may start offering finger foods to their infants as early as 6 months old. This method skips spoon-feeding with solid foods and instead lets your baby take the lead in self-feeding with finger foods. Some believe this approach can decrease fussiness when it comes to introducing new foods, including finger foods, to your baby. Speak to your child’s healthcare provider if this method is something you’d like to try. Giving your baby finger foods can help your little one learn to feed themself, just one step toward gaining independence. Self-feeding can be great fun for your baby. Even if much of the food doesn’t end up in your baby’s mouth, the fact that they’re exploring this new frontier is an accomplishment to be proud of.

First Finger Foods for Your Baby

As you begin choosing finger foods for your baby, check out the following ideas:

  • Steamed veggies like sweet potatoes, potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas

  • Soft, ripe fruits like bananas, berries, peaches (peeled), mangoes (peeled)

  • Whole-grain breakfast cereals (without nuts, clusters, or chunks)

  • Whole-grain pasta (cooked well)

  • Whole-wheat bread

  • Whole-grain crackers or wafers like teething biscuits

  • Soft meats like chicken

  • Cheese (mild)

  • Scrambled eggs.

Be sure that any of the above finger foods are cut into small pieces. You don’t want your baby eating a piece that’s too big to swallow. And, make sure to watch them while eating.

Finger Food Safety

During this time babies are more likely to swallow foods without chewing them, whether they have a few baby teeth coming in or they have no teeth. Avoid giving any finger foods that require a grinding action to chew (this type of chewing is typically mastered around the age of 4), as these may pose a choking risk. Offer finger foods that are soft, easy to swallow, and broken or cut into pieces that your baby cannot choke on. A good rule of thumb is that soft and mushy finger foods are safe for your baby. Small, round, coin-shaped, hard, chewy, crunchy, slippery, or sticky foods may lead to choking. Here are some foods to avoid offering your baby when they start on finger foods:

  • Peanut butter (in chunks)

  • Meat (in chunks)

  • Cheese (in chunks)

  • Raw veggies (in large chunks or round shapes), including celery sticks, carrot sticks, baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, and peas

  • Raw hard fruit (in large chunks or round shapes), including apples, pears, and grapes

  • Nuts (whole)

  • Seeds

  • Popcorn

  • Chewing gum

  • Candies (hard, gooey, or sticky)

  • Hot dogs or meat sticks.

There are ways you can still give some of the above foods while making them easier to eat and less hazardous to swallow. For example:

  • Grapes or cherry tomatoes, cut in half

  • Creamy peanut butter spread thinly on whole-grain bread that’s cut into small squares

  • Hot dog, cut lengthwise and then cut into small 1/2-inch pieces.

Note on Food Allergies

Medical experts once recommended that parents avoid feeding their babies eggs, fish, and peanut butter since babies may be allergic to these foods. However, it’s now recommended that you introduce these foods early—while keeping a close watch for any reactions—since this approach can help reduce your child’s chances of developing food allergies. Before introducing peanut butter or peanut products, consult with your baby’s healthcare provider. Your baby is more likely to be allergic to these foods if

  • food allergies run in your family

  • your baby is known to have an egg allergy

  • your baby has eczema.

The Bottom Line

It’s time to introduce finger foods to your baby when you see that they’re able to sit up on their own, start bringing their hands to their mouth, and can use a pincer grasp to hold onto small items, like finger foods. This development happens around the age of 8 or 9 months old, but you may see it sooner or later in your baby. In the beginning, you’ll want to introduce finger foods that are soft and easy to swallow, since babies at this age tend to swallow instead of chew even if they have a few baby teeth. Think steamed veggies and soft fresh fruits. You can also introduce whole-grain bread, crackers, cereal, or pasta if they’re cut into small pieces. Chicken, mild cheese, and scrambled eggs are also great options when served in small pieces. Avoid hard foods like raw veggies and fruits, as well as chunks of nut butter, cheese, and meat. Whole nuts and seeds are not recommended, nor are chewing gum, candies, hot dogs, or meat sticks. All these items can pose a choking hazard.

Transitioning to finger foods is a big step in your baby’s development and independence. Letting your baby self-feed with finger foods may be a bit messy at first, but you’ll both get the hang of it. Learn more about developmental milestones for your 9-month-old baby.


Best Early Finger Foods for Baby (With Tips, Visuals, and Recipes)

Use this list of safe, nutritious, and easy to eat finger foods for baby to help you know exactly what (and how) to offer at meals and snacks. Plus, find the best first finger foods, troubleshooting tips, and visuals of foods broken down by food group to keep things easy!

Finger Foods for Baby

After baby starts solids and is ready to move onto finger foods, you may feel a little confused by exactly what to serve and how to serve it. Which is totally normal because it can be scary to let baby feed themselves this way and we may not have any experience doing this—or we may have totally forgotten from our last kiddo!

This list of finger foods for baby will cover some great first finger foods to start with, then set you up with plenty of healthy options from each food group.

TIP: Find more info on starting solids here and the best foods to start with if doing baby led weaning or purees with baby.

Healthy Baby Food

I love sharing these ideas for baby food since they are easy to prepare and serve and because I know how hard it can be to continue to come up with flavorful and healthy meals and snacks for our little ones. Let me tell you, I’m on my third kiddo and it can be such a challenge to feed him during the chaos of parenting the rest of my crew! These foods are wholesome and nutritious—perfect for your baby.

TIP: I’m a big fan of SpoonfulONE, a company that offers the most complete way to introduce food allergens to our kids. They make mix-ins, puffs, and crackers that are yummy and easy for babies and toddlers to eat. Learn more about their pediatrician-approved baby foods here. (sponsored link)

Best First Finger Foods

When baby is around 9 months, you’ll notice that they’re able to pick up smaller pieces of food with two fingers. This is known as the “pincer grasp” and is a sign that they’re ready to start finger foods. To be clear, when I say “finger foods” I mean small pieces of food that a baby (or toddler) can feed themselves.

Here are some of my favorite ones to start with that are all super soft, safe to eat, and easy to pick up.

  • Scrambled egg, broken up into small pieces
  • Roasted sweet potato mashed and broken up into small pieces
  • Fresh raspberries, broken up into smaller pieces
  • Oatmeal, cooked according to package directions and allowed to cool
  • Tofu, diced and sauteed lightly or steamed
  • Ground beef, chicken, or turkey, broken up into small pieces or lightly mashed meatballs
  • Shredded cheese or crumbled goat cheese
  • Mashed sweet potato, in little pieces
  • Peanut butter puffs

TIP: You can serve the tofu, ground meat, or meatballs in veggie puree from a pouch or a simple marinara sauce for extra moisture and flavor. Learn more about how and why to introduce peanut butter.

Finger Foods for Baby: Fruits and Veggies

Some of my favorite early fruits and veggies to serve babies are:

  • Mashed roasted sweet potato, broken up into small pieces
  • Warmed frozen peas, slightly mashed if desired
  • Roasted Zucchini
  • Diced Roasted Sweet Potato or Butternut Squash
  • Fresh blueberries, cut in half or quarters
  • Fresh raspberries, broken into small pieces
  • Banana, broken into small segments (they are less slippery this way versus slicing them)
  • Avocado, diced and mashed slightly (be sure it’s ripe and very soft)

TIP: A good rule of thumb is to serve pieces of food that are about the size of a pea to start and soft enough that they are easy to squish between your fingers. This will be easy for baby to pick up and eat and will also reduce chances of choking.

Finger Food Ideas: Carbohydrates

Offering complex carbohydrates can provide fiber, a variety of textures, B vitamins, and more. Try these with your baby.

  • Spinach pancakes (moisten with applesauce or plain yogurt if needed; this recipe is particularly moist and great for babies)
  • Oatmeal, cooked according to package directions and allowed to cool
  • Baby Puffs
  • Peanut Butter Puffs
  • Rice (it’s easiest if it’s in little clumps so baby can pick it up; this Coconut Rice or this Cheesy Rice are both good options)
  • Baby Banana Muffin
  • O cereal (soften in nondairy unsweetened milk or yogurt as needed)
  • Baked Oatmeal, diced

Finger Food Ideas: Proteins

Offering proteins will continue to expose baby to a range of nutrients. These are my go-tos for babies newer to finger foods—and toddlers too.

  • Shredded cheese (thicker cuts are a little easier to pick up)
  • Tofu, diced and sauteed lightly or steamed
  • Flaked cooked wild salmon
  • Lightly mashed meatballs
  • Shredded chicken, cut up finely (we love this Butter Chicken to share with baby)
  • Ground beef, turkey, or chicken, broken into smaller pieces
  • Lightly mashed beans
  • Scrambled eggs, broken up into small pieces
  • Diced egg muffins

I’d love to hear any questions you may have, or if you have foods that your babies enjoy that I didn’t include here.

Chime in below in the comments!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 10 minutes

Author Amy Palanjian

Cuisine American

Course Baby Food

Calories 124kcal

Servings 1

First Finger Foods (choose 1-3 per meal)
  • ▢ 1 Scrambled egg (broken up into small pieces)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Roasted sweet potato, mashed and broken up into small pieces
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Fresh raspberries (broken up into smaller pieces)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Oatmeal (cooked according to package directions and allowed to cool)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Tofu (diced and sauteed lightly or steamed)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp ground beef, chicken, or turkey, broken up into small pieces or lightly mashed meatballs
  • ▢ 2 tbsp shredded cheese or crumbled goat cheese
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Mashed sweet potato (broken into little pieces)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Peanut butter puffs
Fruits and Veggies
  • ▢ 1/4 cup mashed roasted sweet potato (broken up into small pieces)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup warmed frozen peas
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Roasted Zucchini
  • ▢ 1/4 cup diced Roasted Sweet Potato or Butternut Squash
  • ▢ 1/4 cup blueberries (cut in half or quarters)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup raspberries (broken into small pieces)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup banana slices (broken into small segments—they are less slippery this way versus slicing them)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp avocado (diced and mashed slightly—be sure it's ripe and very soft)
Whole Grains and Carbohydrates
  • ▢ 1 Spinach pancakes (moisten with applesauce or plain yogurt if needed; this recipe is particularly moist and great for babies)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Oatmeal (cooked according to package directions and allowed to cool)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Baby Puffs
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Peanut Butter Puffs
  • ▢ 1/4 cup fully cooked rice (it's easiest if it's in little clumps so baby can pick it up; this Coconut Rice or this Cheesy Rice are both good options)
  • ▢ 1 Baby Banana Muffin
  • ▢ 1/4 cup O cereal (soften in nondairy unsweetened milk or yogurt as needed)
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Baked Oatmeal (diced or regular oatmeal broken into little pieces)
Dairy
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Shredded cheese (such as mozzarella)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Tofu (diced and sauteed lightly or steamed)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp flaked cooked wild salmon
  • ▢ 1 lightly mashed meatballs
  • ▢ 2 tbsp finely shredded chicken (we love this Butter Chicken to share with baby)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp ground beef, turkey, or chicken (broken into smaller pieces)
  • ▢ 2 tbsp lightly mashed beans
  • ▢ 1 Scrambled egg (broken up into small pieces)
  • ▢ 1 Diced Egg muffins

  • For each meal or snack, choose 2-3 foods from a mix of food groups. Aim to include some fat in most meals and protein in many too.

  • Prepare the food, cutting into small pieces and/or mashing as needed to make the food easy to eat.

  • Start with small portions and allow more as baby indicates according to their hunger.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days in the fridge.
  • Many foods you cook for your family will work as baby finger foods—just be sure they are easy to squish between your fingers and the pieces are small and easy to chew.
  • Babies very normally make a lot of faces when they eat, so don't assume they don't like something just because they scrunch their nose!
  • Flavors and textures can take time to learn to eat, so continue offering foods in small portions even if baby hasn't liked them in the past—and make sure they taste good to you!

Calories: 124kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 164mg, Sodium: 81mg, Potassium: 344mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 9857IU, Vitamin C: 18mg, Calcium: 51mg, Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Rate in the comments and tag @yummytoddlerfood on IG!

 

28 Healthy Snacks Your Kids Will Love

Growing children are often hungry between meals.

However, many packaged snacks for children are extremely unhealthy. They are often full of refined flours, added sugars, and artificial ingredients.

Snack time is a great opportunity to bring extra nutrients into your child's diet.

Instead of heavily processed snack foods, fill your baby's tummy with whole foods that provide energy and nutrition.

Here is a list of kid-friendly snacks that are both healthy and delicious.

1. Yogurt

Yogurt is a great snack for kids because it is a good source of protein and calcium. Calcium is especially important for children's developing bones.

Some yogurts also contain live bacteria that benefit the digestive system.

Most yogurts sold for children contain high amounts of sugar. Instead, opt for plain, full-fat yogurt and sweeten it with fresh fruit or a dash of honey.

However, be careful not to give honey to infants under 12 months of age, as they are at greater risk of a serious infection called botulism.

2. Popcorn

Popcorn may be considered junk food, but it is a nutritious whole grain.

As long as you don't sprinkle it with unhealthy toppings, popcorn can be a healthy snack for kids. Make your own popcorn, drizzle it with a little butter and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top.

However, be careful when offering popcorn to small children, as it can be a choking hazard.

3. Peanut Butter Raisin Celery

Peanut Butter Raisin Celery, sometimes called “ants on a log”, is a fun way to get your child to eat a vegetable.

Cut a stalk of celery into three or four pieces, spread peanut butter on the inside of the celery, and spread a few raisins on top of the peanut butter.

These three products combined provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat.

Just be sure to buy peanut butter without added sugar or vegetable oils.

4. Nuts

Nuts are high in healthy fats, along with fiber and antioxidants. Dietary fats are important for maintaining growth in children.

We offer you: 9 Causes of Unintentional Weight Gain

Doctors used to recommend against giving nuts to children because of the risk of an allergic reaction, but recent evidence suggests that introducing nuts at an early age reduces this risk.

However, nuts can be a choking hazard, so make sure your child can handle the texture before giving nuts as a snack.

5. Trace Mix

As long as your child doesn't have a nut allergy, Tribal Mix is ​​a healthy on-the-go snack for kids.

Most commercial trail mixes contain chocolates that are high in sugar, but you can easily make your own at home.

For a healthier version, mix nuts, dried fruit and whole grain cereal.

6. Sliced ​​pears with ricotta cheese

Pears are a sweet treat that can be easily eaten by a baby when cut into slices. Pears are high in fiber and beneficial plant compounds.

Sprinkle each slice with ricotta cheese to add a delicious source of protein and calcium to your child's snack.

7. Curd Cheese

Curd Cheese is a fresh and creamy cheese that is soft enough to be eaten even by babies.

It is rich in protein and a good source of selenium, vitamin B12 and calcium. Vitamin B12 is important for proper brain growth and development in children.

You can serve cottage cheese on its own, top it with fresh or dried fruit, or use it as a creamy spread on whole grain toast.

Here's to you: Good carbs, bad carbs - how to make the right choice

8. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy breakfast for kids, but it also makes a great snack.

Oats are high in soluble fiber, which increases the beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, along with other health benefits.

Ditch the sugary flavored bags and make your oatmeal with whole rolled oats. Add about 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and a few diced apples for sweetness.

Making oatmeal with milk instead of water will add extra protein and calcium.

9.

A piece of cheese

Cheese is mainly composed of protein and fat and is a good source of calcium.

Studies show that eating cheese and other dairy products is associated with improved overall nutritional quality.

Full-fat dairy products contribute significantly to a child's nutritional needs for calcium, magnesium, vitamins A and D.

Cheese provides children with the high quality protein they need for proper growth. Protein will also help them feel full between meals.

Moreover, some studies have shown that children who eat cheese are less likely to develop tooth decay.

10. Vegetarian pita pocket

Some parents find it difficult to get their children to eat vegetables. But if you make it fun for them, they are more likely to try vegetables.

Spread some hummus on whole grain pita and chop raw vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, lettuce and bell peppers. Have your child choose some vegetables and fill the pita with them.

Vegetables are rich in important vitamins and minerals, and many children do not eat enough of them.

11. Fruit Smoothie

Fruit smoothie is a good way to pack lots of nutrients into a small snack.

You can also add vegetables to smoothies. Thanks to the sweetness of fruits, your child may not even realize that they are there.

Here's to you: How Apples Affect Diabetes and Blood Sugar

Use whole, fresh ingredients and avoid fruit juices that are high in sugar.

There are countless combinations you can try, but here is one smoothie recipe to get you started:

Berry Smoothie

Ingredients for 4 servings:

  • 2 cups (60 grams) fresh spinach
  • 2 cups (300 grams) frozen berries
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain yogurt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon (20 grams) honey

Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.

12. Hard-boiled eggs

Store hard-boiled eggs in the refrigerator for a quick, high-protein treat.

Eggs are highly nutritious and a great snack for kids. They provide high quality protein and several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.

They also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that are good for eye health.

In addition, they are one of the best food sources of choline, a vitamin that is essential for proper brain development.

13. Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Homemade banana cookies are a healthy snack for kids that taste like a treat.

These cookies get their sweetness from mashed bananas, not refined sugar.

Refined sugars have been linked to health problems in children, such as an increased risk of heart disease, childhood obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

Banana Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) coconut oil
  • 2 cups (160 grams) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (80-90 grams) mini chocolate chips or dried fruit
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Spoon the cookie mixture onto a greased sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

14. Raisin snack bags

Raisins are dried grapes. They have almost all the nutrients found in fresh grapes, but in a smaller package.

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Raisins contain a decent amount of iron, a nutrient many children lack and needed to transport oxygen throughout the body.

What's more, raisins pack plant compounds, including oleanolic acid, which can protect your child's teeth from cavities by preventing bacteria from sticking to them.

Raisin snack bags are a light snack that is much healthier than most convenience foods.

15. Turkey and avocado roll

Turkey and avocado roll is an easy and healthy snack.

Turkey is a good source of protein, which is responsible for building and repairing tissues in your body. It's also very filling, which can help kids feel full between meals.

Avocados are full of heart-healthy fats, as well as fiber, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, several antioxidants, and vitamins C and K.

To make a turkey and avocado roll-up, first peel and cut the avocado. Dip slices lightly in lime juice to keep them from browning. Wrap one piece of turkey around each avocado slice.

16. Baked sweet potato fries

Sweet potatoes are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, a nutrient that your body can convert to vitamin A. It promotes eye and skin health.

Homemade, baked sweet potato fries are a nutritious alternative to french fries.

Sweet potato fries recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 fresh sweet potato
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) olive oil
  • Sea salt

Peel and cut sweet potatoes. Dip potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake on a cookie sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.

17. Cucumbers

Pickled cucumbers are cucumbers that have been fermented in salt and water.

They are a good source of vitamin K, and some foods also contain probiotic bacteria that are good for the digestive system.

Suggestion: How many bananas should you eat per day?

Cucumbers containing vinegar do not contain probiotics, so look in the cold section of the grocery store for cucumbers with live cultures.

Avoid sweet pickles that are high in added sugars.

18. Cabbage Chips

Cabbage is considered a superfood because it is high in nutrients but low in calories. Children can get all the vitamins A, C and K they need in a day from just 1 cup (65 grams) of kale.

While most kids won't want to eat these leafy greens raw, kale chips are a delicious snack that can change your child's mind.

Recipe for chips from Keil

Ingredients:

  • 1 A small block of cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
    • 9000 9000 then wash and dry thoroughly. Dip it in olive oil and seasonings. Spread it out on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Watch your oven carefully, as cabbage can burn quickly.

    19. Carrot sticks and hummus

    Most kids love to dip, and offering them a healthy dip is a great way to get them to eat vegetables.

    Hummus is one of the options. This is a thick, creamy chickpea spread that contains fiber, folate, and a host of antioxidants.

    Hummus is delicious with carrot sticks or other raw vegetables.

    20. Energy Balls

    Energy Balls taste like cookie dough but are made with wholesome, nutritious ingredients.

    You can make these snacks with either ground flax seeds or whole chia seeds, both sources of fiber, protein and antioxidants.

    They are a healthier alternative to commercial granola bars, which are usually high in sugar and artificial ingredients.

    Energy ball recipe

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup (80 grams) oatmeal
    • 1/3 cup (115 grams) unfiltered honey
    • 1/2 cup (125 grams) almond butter
    • 1/2 cup ground flax seeds (55 grams) or whole chia seeds (110 grams)
    • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla
    • 1/2 cup (80 grams) dried fruit

    bowl. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate. For a pampering treat, replace the dried fruit with chopped dark chocolate chips.

    Here are 29 Healthy Snacks to Help You Lose Weight

    21. Bell Peppers and Guacamole

    Bell peppers are naturally sweet and highly nutritious. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and carotenoids.

    Carotenoids are plant compounds with many health benefits, including support for eye health.

    Very delicious bell pepper dipped in guacamole - creamy avocado puree spread.

    22. Whole grain crackers and nut butter

    You can make your own sandwich crackers by spreading a little nut butter, such as almond butter, on whole grain crackers. This snack has a good balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat.

    However, choose your children's crackers carefully. Many crackers are full of refined flours, hydrogenated oils, and even sugar.

    Instead, choose crackers made with 100% whole grains and seeds.

    23. Fruit Slice

    Fruit Slice is a convenient and healthy snack for children.

    Most fruits contain fiber and important nutrients such as potassium and vitamins A and C.

    Bananas, apples, pears, grapes, peaches, and plums are examples of fruits that can be used for take-and-go snacks.

    Cut fruits like pineapple, cantaloupe and mango into pieces and store them in small containers for easy snacking.

    24. Quesadilla with peanut butter and banana

    Quesadilla made with peanut butter and banana is healthy and delicious.

    Peanut butter is a great way to give your child a source of healthy fats and some protein.

    Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin B6 and fibre.

    This easy recipe combines peanut butter and bananas for a delicious snack. How much protein is in an egg?

    25. Olives

    Olives are rich in healthy fats and packed with powerful antioxidants that protect your body from damaging molecules called free radicals.

    Olives are soft and easy to eat by children. Make sure you buy pitted olives for the kids or remove the pit before serving.

    Different varieties have their own taste. If you've never offered olives to your child before, start with mild-tasting black olives.

    26. Apple and peanut butter dip

    Apple slices and peanut butter are a delicious combination.

    Apple skin contains pectin, a soluble fiber that feeds friendly gut bacteria and improves digestive health.

    Peanut butter has a thick consistency that may be difficult for children to use as a dip.

    Mix some plain, full-fat yogurt with two tablespoons (30 grams) of peanut butter to make a smooth, creamy apple slice poppy.

    27. Frozen fruit popsicles

    Frozen fruit popsicles are an appetizing treat for children and really quite healthy.

    Most store bought ice creams are full of artificial flavors and refined sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

    But you can easily make your own and your kids might like to help.

    Puree frozen fruit or berries and a small amount of fruit juice in a blender. Pour the mixture into ice cream molds or small plastic cups. Cover with foil and insert the popsicle stick into the ice cream through the foil. Freeze overnight.

    28. Half of a sandwich

    Sandwiches do not have to be only at mealtimes. Half a sandwich can also be a healthy snack for kids.

    To make a healthy sandwich, start with whole grain bread, choose a protein source, and include a fruit or vegetable whenever possible.

    Here are some examples of healthy sandwich combinations:

    • cheddar cheese and thinly sliced ​​apples
    • mozzarella cheese and tomato slices

      • Offer your children whole, unprocessed snacks instead of packaged snacks.

      Topics

      17 delicious ways to fill tartlets

      December 6, 2019LikbezFood

      Savory snacks and delicate desserts that will disappear from the table in minutes.

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      How to make your own base for tartlets

      It is not necessary to buy ready-made baskets. After all, the manufacturing technology is very simple. Just remember to let them cool before stuffing.

      Classic Shortbread Tartlets

      Roll out the shortbread dough and cut out circles. Divide them into cupcake liners. Depending on the molds, you can get tartlets with ribbed or round edges. Trim off excess dough if necessary.

      Cooking at Home YouTube channel

      Refrigerate for 30 minutes or an hour. To save time, you can put the molds in the freezer.

      Prick the bottom of future tartlets with a fork or knife, or cover with parchment paper and fill with dry legumes, such as beans. This is necessary so that the dough does not rise. Bake at 180°C for 10-15 minutes.

      YouTube channel “COOKING AT HOME”

      Puff pastry tartlets

      Puff pastry can simply be distributed into molds in the same way as shortcrust pastry. Or make very cute little “airy” tartlets out of it.

      Cut out small circles from the dough. In half of them, separate the middle so that you get a thin ring.

      YouTube channel Yuliya Small

      Cut out leftovers can be reused. Prick whole circles of dough and place prepared rings on each of them. To make the tartlets shiny, grease their surface with an egg.

      YouTube channel Yuliya Small

      Bake at 180°C for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. If there is not enough space in the tartlets, you can slightly press down the middle.

      YouTube channel Yuliya Small

      Lavash tartlets

      You will get very non-standard crispy baskets.

      Cut thin pita bread into squares. Brush one of them with a mixture of beaten egg and a little water. Place the second square crosswise on top.

      YouTube channel IrinaCooking

      Make a few more of the same blanks. Place them in cupcake liners.

      YouTube channel IrinaCooking

      Place in an oven preheated to 180 °C for 10 minutes. Remove the baskets from the molds after they have completely cooled down.

      YouTube channel IrinaCooking

      How to cook tartlets with savory fillings

      Any bases are suitable for cold appetizers, but only shortbread for hot appetizers. It is better to fill the tartlets just before serving so that they do not get soggy. But the filling, if desired, is easy to make in advance.

      The number of tartlets may vary depending on their size.

      1. Tartlets with caviar and curd cheese

      Galene/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 150 g curd cheese;
      • 1 garlic clove or a few sprigs of dill;
      • 15-18 small tartlets;
      • 100–150 g red caviar;
      • a few sprigs of dill for decoration - optional.
      Preparation

      Mix cheese with minced garlic or dill. Distribute the filling among the tartlets, and spread the red caviar and, if you like, dill sprigs on top.

      2. Chicken, mushroom, egg and onion tarts

      How to cook YouTube channel
      Ingredients
      • 500 g chicken fillet;
      • 3 eggs;
      • 300 g mushrooms;
      • 1 bulb;
      • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil;
      • salt to taste;
      • ground black pepper - to taste;
      • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise;
      • 15-20 medium tartlets;
      • parsley and olives optional.
      Preparation

      Boil chicken and eggs, cool. Peel the eggs from the shell. Cut mushrooms and onions into small pieces.

      Fry the mushrooms in a hot pan until the liquid has evaporated. Add the onion, oil, salt and pepper and cook for a few more minutes until golden brown.

      Cut the chicken and eggs into small cubes. Add to them the cooled mushrooms with onions. Season with mayonnaise and arrange on tartlets. Garnish with parsley and olives if desired.

      3. Tartlets with curd cheese, avocado and red fish

      silina.darina.gmail.com/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • ¹⁄₂ of lemon;
      • ¹⁄₂ avocado;
      • 100 g curd cheese;
      • 6-8 medium tartlets;
      • 100 g salted red fish;
      • a little ground black pepper;
      • a few sprigs of parsley;
      • ¼ cucumber.
      Preparation

      Squeeze the juice from the lemon. Mash the avocado pulp with a fork along with citrus juice. Mix with cream cheese.

      Fill tartlets with this mixture. Cut the fish into thin slices, roll them into “roses” and put them on the cream. Sprinkle with pepper, garnish with parsley and, if desired, cucumber slices.

      4. Tartlets with chicken, pineapple and tomatoes

      Cooking at Home YouTube channel
      Ingredients
      • 300 g chicken fillet;
      • 2 tomatoes;
      • 300 g canned pineapple;
      • 2 garlic cloves;
      • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise;
      • salt - to taste, optional;
      • 18-20 medium tartlets;
      • a few sprigs of parsley.
      Preparation

      Boil the fillets until tender. Remove seeds and liquid from tomatoes. Cut the tomato pulp, chicken and pineapple into small pieces.

      Combine prepared ingredients. Add chopped garlic and mayonnaise and mix thoroughly. Salt if necessary. Divide the mixture between tartlets and garnish with parsley.

      5. Tartlets with cream cheese and red fish

      AnnieBrusnika/depositphotos. com
      Ingredients
      • 100 g salted red fish;
      • 180 g cream cheese;
      • a few sprigs of dill;
      • salt to taste;
      • 8-10 medium tartlets.
      Preparation

      Cut half of the fish into small pieces. Mix them with cream cheese. Add some finely chopped dill and salt and stir.

      Put the mass into a pastry bag. You can use a regular plastic bag by cutting off the tip of it. Squeeze the filling into tartlets.

      Cut the rest of the fish into thin slices. Fold each of them with a “rose” and place on top of the cheese mass. Garnish the appetizer with the remaining dill sprigs.

      6. Tartlets with smoked chicken, cheese and Korean carrots

      YouTube channel “Menunedeli Daria Chernenko”
      Ingredients
      • 200 g smoked chicken breast;
      • 100 g hard cheese;
      • 100 g Korean style carrots;
      • 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise;
      • 6-8 medium tartlets;
      • a few sprigs of dill.
      Preparation

      Cut the breast into small cubes. Grate the cheese on a fine grater. Add carrots and mayonnaise to them and mix. Arrange the salad among the tartlets and sprinkle with chopped dill.

      7. Tartlets with feta, tomato and cucumber

      YouTube channel Tasty Food
      Ingredients
      • 70 g feta cheese;
      • a few sprigs of dill;
      • 1 garlic clove;
      • salt to taste;
      • ¼-½ cucumber;
      • 2-3 cherry tomatoes;
      • 6-8 small tartlets;
      • a few sprigs of parsley.
      Preparation

      Sprinkle chopped dill over the feta and mash with a fork. Add crushed garlic and salt. Cut the cucumber into semicircular slices, divide the tomatoes into quarters.

      Put the cheese mass into the tartlets. Top with slices of tomato and cucumber each and garnish with parsley.

      8. Tartlets with cod liver, egg and cucumber

      andreevec.vitali/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 1 egg;
      • 120 g canned cod liver;
      • ½ fresh cucumber;
      • salt to taste;
      • 6-8 medium tartlets.
      Preparation

      Boil the egg, cool and peel. Mash the cod liver with a fork. Cut the egg and cucumber into small cubes. Mix all ingredients and season with salt. Divide the salad among the tarts.

      9. Tartlets with crab sticks, eggs and melted cheese

      Kalnina Natalia YouTube channel
      Ingredients
      • 2 eggs;
      • 100 g crab sticks;
      • 100 g hard processed cheese;
      • 2 garlic cloves;
      • a few sprigs of dill;
      • 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise;
      • salt to taste, optional;
      • 6-8 medium tartlets;
      • parsley and red caviar optional.
      Preparation

      Boil the eggs, cool and peel. Cut them and crab sticks into small cubes. Grate the cheese on a coarse grater.

      Add crushed garlic, chopped dill and mayonnaise to prepared ingredients. Stir and salt if necessary. Divide the salad among the tarts. You can decorate appetizers with parsley and caviar.

      10.

      Tartlets with shrimps, cream cheese and cucumber nata_vkusidey / Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 250–300 g shrimp, peeled + for garnish;
      • 200 g cream cheese;
      • 15-20 medium tartlets;
      • 1 cucumber.
      Preparation

      Boil the shrimp and leave to cool. Combine them with cream cheese in a blender. Fill the tartlets with the resulting cream. Garnish with cucumber slices and whole shrimp.

      11. Julienne with chicken and mushrooms in tartlets

      elena.hramova/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 300 g chicken fillet;
      • 500 g mushrooms;
      • 1 bulb - optional;
      • 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil;
      • salt to taste;
      • ground black pepper - to taste;
      • 3 tablespoons cream or sour cream;
      • 15-18 medium shortcrust tartlets;
      • 100 g hard cheese.
      Cooking

      Boil the chicken until tender. Then cool slightly and cut into small pieces.

      Chop mushrooms and onions, if using. Fry in hot oil until golden brown and liquid evaporates. Season with salt and pepper.

      Mix mushrooms with chicken. Add cream or sour cream and, if necessary, salt and pepper. Divide the mixture among the tarts. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Sprinkle with grated cheese and put in an oven preheated to 180 ° C for 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese.

      12. Tartlets with ham, cheese and sour cream filling

      Rawlik/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 100 g ham;
      • 90 g hard cheese;
      • 10-12 medium shortbread tartlets;
      • 120 g sour cream;
      • 1 egg;
      • salt to taste.
      Preparation

      Cut the ham into small cubes. Grate the cheese on a medium or large grater. Mix them and stuff the tartlets.

      Beat sour cream with egg and salt. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tarts. Gently pour in the sour cream mixture. Bake at 180°C for about 15 minutes.

      Experiment with fillings for tartlets

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      How to make tartlets with sweet fillings

      Sand bases are better for such desserts. If you cook tartlets yourself, you can replace a small part of the cocoa flour - then they will turn out chocolate.

      The number of baskets may vary depending on their size.

      1. Tartlets with mascarpone and white chocolate cream

      Kate_Smirnova / Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 200 g cream, 33-36% fat;
      • 200 g white chocolate;
      • 500 g mascarpone cheese;
      • 10-15 wide tartlets;
      • any berries, powdered sugar for decoration.
      Preparation

      Heat the cream but do not bring to a boil. Dissolve the chocolate pieces in the cream until smooth. Add mascarpone and mix thoroughly.

      Divide the cream among the tartlets and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Decorate the finished dessert with berries and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

      2. Chocolate Ganache Tarts

      Tri YouTube Channel
      Ingredients
      • 140 g dark chocolate;
      • 140 g cream, 33-36% fat;
      • 40 g butter;
      • 6-8 medium tartlets.
      Preparation

      Melt the chocolate in a water bath or microwave, stirring occasionally. Heat the cream without boiling. ¹⁄₃ pour them into the chocolate and mix thoroughly.

      In the same portions add the rest of the cream. When the mass becomes completely homogeneous, add softened butter and mix well again.

      Pour the hot ganache over the tartlets. Leave for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator.

      3. Tartlets with Berry Curd Mousse

      Bon Appetit YouTube Channel
      Ingredients
      • 460 ml berry juice;
      • 10 g granulated gelatin;
      • 400 g soft cottage cheese;
      • 100 g powdered sugar;
      • 150 g cream, 35% fat;
      • 8-10 wide tartlets;
      • any berries and nuts, shredded coconut for decoration.
      Preparation

      Pour 400 ml of juice into a saucepan and boil until the volume of liquid is reduced to 100-150 ml. Remove from stove.

      Pour the rest of the juice over the gelatin and leave to swell. Then transfer it to a saucepan with hot juice and mix until smooth.

      Combine cottage cheese and powdered sugar. Whip the cream with a mixer until fluffy. Put them in the cottage cheese, add the gelatin mass and mix gently. Divide the mousse among the tartlets and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Decorate the dessert with berries, nuts, coconut flakes.

      4. Lemon Curd Tarts

      belchonock/Depositphotos
      Ingredients
      • 80 ml lemon juice;
      • 2 eggs;
      • 1 egg yolk;
      • 100 g sugar;
      • 2 tablespoons butter;
      • 1 tablespoon cream;
      • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract;
      • a pinch of salt;
      • 15-20 small tartlets.
      Preparation

      Heat the lemon juice, but do not boil. Whisk the eggs and yolk in a separate bowl. While continuing to beat, gradually add sugar and lemon juice.

      Pour the mixture into a saucepan and place over medium heat. Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat, add butter cubes and stir until smooth.

      Then add cream, vanilla extract and salt. Cover the surface of the curd with a film and cool. Then fill the baskets with this stuffing.

      5. Coconut Cream Tarts

      El Mundo Eats YouTube Channel
      Ingredients
      • 100 g coconut flakes;
      • 1 tablespoon flour;
      • ½ teaspoon baking powder;
      • 60-70 g sugar;
      • 60 ml milk;
      • 1 egg;
      • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract;
      • 2 tablespoons butter;
      • a pinch of salt;
      • 8-10 medium tartlets.
      Preparation

      Combine coconut flakes, flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, vanilla extract, melted butter and salt. When the mass becomes homogeneous, add the coconut mixture to it.

      Learn more