As parents, we all want our kids to thrive both in the classroom and on the playground. One of the keys to achieving this is ensuring they get the right nutrition, and that includes packing their day with protein-rich snacks. But finding high-protein options that are also tasty and appealing to young palates can be a challenge.
Protein is crucial for kids because it supports their growth, development, and overall health. During childhood, the body needs protein to build and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormones, and maintain a strong immune system. Protein deficiency in children can lead to stunted growth, weakened immunity, and developmental delays. Meeting daily protein requirements is essential for ensuring that kids develop properly and maintain their energy levels. Good protein sources include lean meats, dairy products, eggs, legumes, and nuts, which provide the building blocks necessary for their bodies to function optimally.
In this blog post, we’ll explore creative and kid-friendly high-protein snacks that not only meet their nutritional needs but also keep them excited and energized throughout their busy days. From inventive twists on classics to fun and easy recipes, get ready to discover snacks that will have your kids asking for more and fuel their growth and play.
Packaged High Protein Snacks for Kids
1. People's Choice Beef Jerky Mini Beef Sticks - 3g Protein Per Stick
Beef sticks are an excellent high-protein snack for kids due to their convenience, portability, and nutritional benefits. Packed with a substantial amount of protein in a compact, easy-to-carry form, they offer a quick and satisfying option for busy little ones who need a boost between meals. We love the mini beef stick line because they come in a variety of flavors and have 0g sugar, 0g carbs and are loaded with protein so they won't make your kids crash. Plus they come in kid friendly flavors like Pepperoni and Hickory BBQ!
Shop People's Choice Beef Jerky Mini Beef Sticks
2. String Cheese - 7g Protein Per Stick
String cheese is a fantastic high-protein snack for kids, blending both nutritional value and fun into one convenient package. Each serving of string cheese delivers a solid dose of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall development. Its easy-to-peel format makes it an interactive snack that engages kids. Throw into their lunch bag for a quick grab-and-go high protein snack.
Shop Sargento Natural String Cheese.
3. Lemon Cake Protein Bars - 20g Protein Per Bar
Quest Lemon Cake Protein Bars are a fantastic high-protein snack for kids due to their deliciously tangy lemon flavor and substantial protein content. These bars offer a satisfying way to boost protein intake while also providing fiber to keep kids feeling full and energized. Their appealing lemon cake taste makes them a fun and enjoyable treat that kids will look forward to.
Shop Quest Lemon Cake Protein Bars
4. CLIF Kid Zbar Protein Bars - 5g Protein Per Bar
CLIF Kid Zbar Protein in Chocolate Chip flavor is an excellent high-protein snack for kids. Each Zbar offers a substantial amount of protein, essential for growing bodies and active lifestyles, while also providing a good balance of fiber and whole grains to keep kids satisfied and energized. The delicious chocolate chip flavor makes it a kid-approved treat, appealing to their sweet tooth without relying on excessive sugars or artificial ingredients.
Shop CLIF Kid Zbar Chocolate Chip Protein Bars
5. Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans - 11g Protein Per Serving
Edamame beans are a superb high-protein snack for kids, offering a nutritious and flavorful option that’s both healthy and enjoyable. These young soybeans are packed with protein, which supports muscle development and overall growth, while also being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They come in a portable and vibrant green package making it fun for kids to enjoy.
They are also one of the few complete, plant-based proteins.
Shop The Only Bean Crunchy Dry Roasted Edamame
6. Kibo Chickpea Chips - 6g Protein Per Bag
Kibo Chickpea Chips are an excellent high-protein snack for kids due to their impressive blend of protein and fiber, derived from plant-based ingredients. These chips are not only nutritious but also provide a crunchy, flavorful alternative to traditional snacks, making them a hit with children.
Shop Kibo Chickpea Chips
7. simplyFUEL Whole Food Protein Balls - 8g Protein Per 2 Balls
Packed with protein from whole food sources, these balls provide essential nutrients to support growth and energy. The addition of probiotics helps promote healthy digestion and supports the immune system, adding an extra layer of benefit. With their convenient, bite-sized form and natural flavors, they’re a tasty, nutritious option that kids will love and parents can feel good about.
Shop simplyFUEL Whole Food Protein Balls
8. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Bars - 10g Protein Per Bar
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Bars are a great high-protein snack for kids due to their clean, plant-based ingredients and balanced nutrition. Packed with organic protein and fiber, these bars support growth and keep kids feeling full and energized throughout their day. Their variety of flavors appeals to young taste buds, while the absence of artificial additives makes them a healthier choice.
Shop Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Bars
9. Crisp Power High Protein Pretzel Crisps - 15g Protein Per Serving
These are a fantastic high-protein snack for kids, combining the crunch and flavor of traditional pretzels with a significant protein boost. These crisps offer a satisfying, savory option that helps keep kids full and energized between meals, thanks to their protein content. Their convenient, portable packaging makes them ideal for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacking, while their familiar pretzel taste ensures they’re kid-approved.
Shop Crisp Power High Protein Pretzel Crisps
10. Kar’s Nuts Peanut Almond Cashew Mixed Nuts - 12g Protein Per Serving
These are an excellent high-protein snack for kids due to their rich blend of protein-packed nuts, including peanuts, almonds, and cashews. This mix provides a satisfying crunch along with essential nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall growth and energy levels. The variety of flavors and textures keeps snack time interesting, while the portable packaging makes them easy to include in lunchboxes or take on-the-go.
Shop Kar’s Nuts Peanut Almond Cashew Mixed Nuts
11. Designer Wellness Protein Smoothie - 12g Protein Per Pouch
These smoothies are specially formulated to support growing bodies with a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and nutrients in a kid-friendly, ready-to-drink format. Their tasty flavors make them appealing to children, and their portability ensures they’re perfect for on-the-go or after-school snacks.
Shop Designer Wellness Protein Smoothie
12. Beef Jerky Crisps - 40g Protein Per Bag
Ditch the traditional potato chips and instead opt for People's Choice Beef Jerky Crisps. These crispy treats offer a substantial amount of protein, which supports muscle growth and keeps children feeling full and satisfied between meals. Their crunchy texture and savory flavor appeal to kids, making them a fun and enjoyable alternative to traditional snacks. Additionally, beef jerky crisps are portable and durable, perfect for lunchboxes, sports practices, or on-the-go munching.
Shop People's Choice Beef Jerky Naked Jerky Crisps
13. Mini Babybel Cheese - 6g Protein Per Cheese
Mini Babybel cheese is an excellent high-protein snack for kids because it's both nutritious and convenient. Each serving provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for growing bodies and helps keep kids feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, its small, individually wrapped portions make it easy to pack in lunchboxes or grab on the go, encouraging healthy snacking without the mess. Plus, its mild flavor and fun wax coating can make it more appealing to younger taste buds.
Shop Mini Babybel Cheese
14. Organic Almond Milk - 2g Protein Per Serving
Enriched with added protein and free from artificial additives, it provides a good source of essential nutrients in a kid-friendly way. The organic almond milk is also easy to digest and can be a tasty alternative to dairy, making it a versatile choice for snacks or meal additions. Its smooth texture and subtle flavor can appeal to children, encouraging them to enjoy a healthy beverage that supports their growing bodies.
Shop Mooala Organic Almond Milk
15. Real Yogurt Pouches - 4g Protein Per Serving
GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ are an excellent high-protein snack for kids because they combine nutrition with convenience. Each pouch contains a good amount of protein, which supports growth and keeps kids feeling full between meals. The squeezable format is perfect for on-the-go snacking, making it easy to enjoy without mess. Plus, their fun flavors and creamy texture make them an appealing choice for young taste buds, encouraging healthier snacking habits.
Shop Gogo SqueeZ YogurtZ
16. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds - 11g Protein Per Serving
Roasted pumpkin seeds are a fantastic high-protein snack for kids because they offer a crunchy, flavorful way to boost protein intake. Packed with essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats, they support overall health and development.
Homemade High Protein Snack Ideas
17. Peanut Butter Sandwich
A peanut butter sandwich is a great high-protein snack for kids due to its simplicity, nutritional benefits, and versatility. Peanut butter is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and energy, and it also provides healthy fats that support overall development. When paired with whole-grain bread, the sandwich offers additional fiber and nutrients, making it a balanced and satisfying option. Tip** You can also use sunflower butter in case schools have certain regulations on nut butters due to allergies.
Shop at your local grocery store.
18. Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs provide a substantial amount of high-quality protein, which supports muscle development and keeps kids feeling full and satisfied between meals. Easy to prepare and portable, hard-boiled eggs can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a variety of snacks, making them a convenient and nutritious option for busy families.
Shop at your local grocery store.
19. Crackers with Almond Butter
Almond butter is rich in protein and healthy fats, which help support muscle development and provide sustained energy. When paired with whole-grain crackers, which offer additional fiber and essential nutrients, the combination creates a balanced snack that keeps kids satisfied and energized.
Shop at your local grocery store.
20. Turkey and Cheese Roll Ups
Turkey is lean and packed with high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and keeps kids feeling full and satisfied. Cheese complements this with additional protein and calcium, which is crucial for strong bones. The savory flavors and satisfying textures of turkey and cheese make for a kid-friendly snack that's both enjoyable and nutritious.
Shop at your local grocery store.
High Protein Snack Recipes for Kids
21. Healthy Banana Protein Muffins
The combination of banana’s natural sweetness and the protein powder’s muscle-supporting benefits makes these muffins a delicious and nutritious snack that supports energy levels and overall health. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking, ensuring that kids get a tasty treat without compromising on nutrition.
Find recipe at eat with Clarity.
22. Frozen Banana and Peanut Butter Bites
Frozen banana and peanut butter bites are a fantastic high-protein snack for kids because they combine the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas. Peanut butter is a rich source of protein and healthy fats, while bananas offer essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.
Find recipe at Nourished by Nutrition.
23. High Protein Pancake Bites
The Protein Pancake Bites from Nicole Jaques are an excellent high-protein snack for kids due to their balanced combination of protein and whole grains. These bite-sized pancakes are made with protein powder, which helps to boost their protein content, supporting muscle growth and sustained energy. Their fun, bite-sized format makes them easy for kids to enjoy on the go, providing a satisfying and healthful option that’s both delicious and convenient.
Find recipe at Nicole Jaques.
24. Oven Baked Chickpeas
Oven-baked chickpeas are a superb high-protein snack for kids because they are both nutritious and tasty. Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, which are essential for growth and help keep kids full and satisfied. The baking process makes them crispy and enjoyable to eat, turning them into a crunchy, savory snack that's a healthier alternative to traditional chips.
Find recipe at Gimme Some Oven.
25. BBQ Chicken Skewers
Kids love chicken! Let's be real. BBQ chicken skewers are an excellent high-protein snack for kids because they provide a substantial protein boost from the chicken, which is essential for muscle development and overall growth. The grilling or baking process imparts a delicious smoky flavor, making them a tasty and appealing option for kids. This recipe is foolproof.
Find recipe at Sum of Yum.
26. Egg Muffins
These mini egg muffins with cheese and veggies are not only protein-rich but also versatile and easy to prepare, allowing for a variety of flavors and ingredients to keep snack time interesting. Their portable and bite-sized nature makes them a convenient and satisfying option, perfect for busy kids who need a nutritious boost throughout the day.
Find recipe at yummy toddler food.
Bottom Line
Finding convenient and healthy snacks for kids can be challenging, especially snacks that are high in protein. These snacks not only support healthy growth and energy levels but also provide a tasty way for kids to enjoy their protein.
Shop our high protein bestselling jerky favorites.
