After School Snacks

This is the last week of school snacks and meals recipes. I thought this week we’d look at some special after school snacks. We have been keeping with the healthy theme but after a long day at school, your child deserves a treat while they do their homework or on their way to after school activities. 

So here are some yummy options for after school snacks that I’m sure young and old will enjoy. 

Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 cup butter, softened

2 eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

½ cup granulated sugar

1 cup brown sugar

2 ¼ cup flour

1 tsp. baking soda

2 cups chocolate chips

1 cup oats

Beat all of the wet ingredients together. Gradually add the flour mixture and beat until mixed. Stir in the chocolate chips and oats. Spoon a tablespoon of dough on cookie sheets and bake for 8 minutes at 375˚

Caramel Popcorn

¾ cup popcorn kernels

2 cups of sugar

1 ¼ tsp. salt

Pop the corn and set aside on two large cookie sheets. 

In a heavy sauce pan, stir in the sugar, ¼ cup of water, and salt. Heat on low until dissolved. Increase the heat and boil without stirring until the sugar mixture is a golden brown color, about 8 minutes.

Working quickly, pour the caramel over the popcorn while tossing it with two wooden spoons. Let the caramel harden and then enjoy!

Indian fry Bread

3 1/4 cups flour
1 1/2 Tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup hot water

Heat oil to 350 degrees. Sift dry ingredients. Add liquid. Mix until dough pulls from sides of the bowl. Add more flour if too sticky. Knead, roll (don't roll too thin) and deep fry until golden brown.Spread with jam, sprinkle with sugar & cinnamon, or experiment with your favourite toppings!

Nachos

Tortilla chips
Cheese, grated
Toppings such as tomatoes, green onions, red onions, olives, jalapeños, avocado, chicken, ground beef, etc.
Dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream


There are two main ways to bake your nachos, in the oven or in the microwave.


In the Oven:
Choose an oven safe baking dish, such as a cookie sheet or shallow casserole dish. Cover the bottom with a layer of tortilla chips. Evenly sprinkle with your desired toppings and some grated cheese. Depending on how many nachos you want you may wish to add another layer. Bake at 350 degrees until the cheese starts to bubble about 5 minutes.


In the Microwave:
This way is best if you have kids who like different toppings on their nachos, because you can make them their own individual plates. First, choose microwave safe plates. Then layer the tortilla chips, toppings and cheese. Repeat with as many layers as you wish. Microwave at medium power until the cheese starts to bubble, about 1 minute (times vary for different microwaves).


Eat with your favourite dipping sauces.
Enjoy!

Links:

http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/08/100-easy-after-school-snacks.html

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-after-school-snacks.html

http://www.marthastewart.com/275204/after-school-snacks/@center/277005/back-school