Weekly Snack Prep for Toddlers (12 Months+)

Weekly snack prep is one of the simplest ways to reduce daily stress for parents. When healthy snacks are prepared in advance, you avoid last-minute hunger tantrums and can confidently offer nourishing options instead of packaged foods. These three snacks are easy to make, rich in nutrients, and ideal for toddlers who are learning to self-feed.

RECIPES

Swati Jain

1/27/20262 min read

1. Green Peas Crackers

Crunchy, protein-rich & toddler-friendly

Green peas crackers are a wholesome alternative to store-bought biscuits. They provide plant protein, fiber, and iron while introducing toddlers to new textures that support chewing and oral motor development.

Ingredients:-

  • 1 cup green peas (boiled until soft)

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour

  • 1–2 tbsp grated cheddar cheese

  • ½ tsp ajwain

  • A pinch of black pepper

  • ½ tsp oregano

  • ¼ tsp baking powder

  • Salt (optional; avoid for under 1 year)

  • Water as required

Method:-

  1. Boil green peas until soft and mash or blend coarsely.

  2. In a bowl, combine peas, wheat flour, cheese, ajwain, oregano, black pepper, and baking powder.

  3. Add water gradually and knead into a soft, non-sticky dough.

  4. Roll the dough and cut into small cracker shapes suitable for toddlers.

  5. Drizzle Olive Oil.

  6. Airfryer: Cook at 180°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
    Pan option: Cook on low heat with a few drops of ghee, flipping until evenly cooked.

Age Recommendation:- 👶 12 months+
Storage & Shelf Life:-

  • Store in an airtight container

  • Refrigerate for 5–7 days

2. Bajra Laddoo

Iron-rich energy snack for growing toddlers

Bajra (pearl millet) is packed with iron, calcium, and fiber. These laddoos are especially beneficial during winter and help keep toddlers fuller for longer.

Ingredients:-

  • 1 cup bajra flour

  • ¼ cup ghee (adjust as needed)

  • ½ cup grated jaggery

Method:-

  1. Dry roast bajra flour on low flame, stirring continuously until aromatic.

  2. Allow it to cool slightly; the flour should be warm, not hot.

  3. Add ghee in a bowl and mix the grated jaggery.

  4. Let the ggery dissolve in ghee with the heat of your hands.

  5. Mix in the Bajra flour and make a dough.

  6. Shape into small laddoos while the mixture is still warm.

Age Recommendation:- 👶 12 months+
Storage & Shelf Life

  • Store in an airtight container

  • 7–10 days at room temperature

  • Refrigerate during summers for better shelf life

3. Banana Peanut Bark

No-cook, naturally sweet & freezer-friendly

Banana peanut bark is a quick, no-cook snack that provides healthy fats essential for brain development. It works especially well as a summer snack or for teething toddlers.

Ingredients:-

  • 2 ripe bananas

  • 2–3 tbsp unsweetened peanut butter

  • Seeds of choice: chia, pumpkin, sunflower

  • Dry fruits: cranberries and black raisins (finely chopped)

Method:-

  1. Cut the banana and spread onto a parchment paper-lined tray.

  2. Spread the peanut butter evenly on the bananas..

  3. Sprinkle seeds and chopped dry fruits on top.

  4. Freeze for 2–3 hours until firm.

  5. Break into small bark pieces before serving.

Age Recommendation:-

👶 12 months+
(Ensure peanuts have already been introduced safely)

Storage & Shelf Life:-

  • Store in an airtight container in the freezer

  • Keeps well for up to 2 weeks

**Final Note for Parents

Snack prep doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a little planning, you can ensure your toddler always has access to nourishing, homemade food that supports growth, digestion, and healthy eating habits.