13 Warm and Toasty After-School Snacks

Flickr user thecraftykitty

With cold weather making its way across the country, it's time to rethink your approach to after-school snacks. And although we're not opposed to a cookie or two, it's Winter after all. To keep your tots and tweens warm, we've rounded up a few comfort food bites perfect for snacking. From a grilled cheese with a twist to pizza bites that are fun to pop, these warm and gooey options will leave them wanting more.

01
Chorizo Nachos

Chorizo Nachos

These chorizo and pinto bean nachos are the perfect, protein-filled snack for teens and tweens.

Photo: Katie Sweeney

02
Chicken Pizza

Chicken Pizza

Instead of frozen pizza, try making this homemade chicken pizza for a snack kids of all ages will love. This recipe is easier than you think and masks tomatoes with a lot of cheese and fresh flavor. Leave out the jalapeño if your kids aren't into spice.

Photo: Katie Sweeney

03
Mozzarella and Tomato Panini

Mozzarella and Tomato Panini

These toasted, grilled sandwiches are perfect for kids. Cut each slice into small triangles for easy eating — they'll be gone in minutes!

04
Cocoa-Nut!

Cocoa-Nut!

Surprise your little one with this coconut milk hot cocoa recipe. It's a great solution for lactose-intolerant tots, but even dairy drinkers will love its smooth, creamy texture.

Photo: Nancy Einhart

05
Broccoli Cheddar Biscuit Muffins

Broccoli Cheddar Biscuit Muffins

With the help of Trader Joe’s biscuits, you can easily whip up these broccoli cheddar biscuit muffins. A delicious snack that sneaks in a load of veggies, too!

06
Mini Deep-Dish Pizzas

Mini Deep-Dish Pizzas

Bet they can't just eat one! These scrumptious mini deep-dish pizzas are tasty as prepared but can also be made with fresh vegetables for a more nutritious lunch or snack!

07
Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes

Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes

Mac and cheese is one of those dishes that kids can eat endlessly. When served in cupcake form, it's a perfectly portioned size to keep lil ones from over-indulging!

Source: Framed Cooks

08
Peanut Butter and Jelly Pocket Pies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pocket Pies

Give PB & J a twist with peanut butter and jelly pocket pies. Made with a whole-wheat crust, they are healthier than store-bought Pop Tarts, not to mention extremely tasty!

09
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese

The Ultimate Grilled Cheese

Since grilled cheese is a cold weather staple; this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot!

10
Mini Twice-Baked Potatoes

Mini Twice-Baked Potatoes

A crowd-friendly take on stuffed potato skins, these mini twice-baked potatoes make a satisfying and comforting snack, especially in the Winter.

Photo: Lauren Hendrickson

11
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Mini Pizzas

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Mini Pizzas

Inspired by the family favorite book, this Very Hungry Caterpillar is as much fun to make as he is to eat!

Source: Spoonful

12
Chile Con Queso

Chile Con Queso

If you're hosting a few kiddos after school, give this yummy recipe for warm and gooey chile con queso a whirl. Make it healthier forgoing the chips and serving it with veggies or whole grain pita bites.

Photo: POPSUGAR Food

13
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

For a sweet after school treat, whip up these gluten-free oatmeal cookies. They call for a little bit of everything like chocolate chips and walnuts. They taste best served still warm from the oven!

Photo: Amanda Haas