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SNACKING between meals is part and parcel of daily life. When hunger strikes, you want something tasty, but don't always have the time or ingredients on hand to prepare elaborate snacks from scratch. However, with a bit of creativity and some simple ingredients stashed in your pantry, fridge or fruit bowl, you can whip up crave-worthy bites in minutes. Read on for inspiration for quick and easy DIY snacks that will satisfy your cravings without a ton of effort.
1. Crunchy Cornflake Clusters
Craving something sweet and salty? Make a batch of these crispy cornflake clusters for a snack that comes together in just 10 minutes. Simply melt some butter or margarine in a saucepan with brown sugar, honey or golden syrup and a pinch of salt. Fold in cornflakes or any crunchy cereal and stir until coated. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and allow to cool until hardened. For variety, mix in chopped nuts, coconut flakes, mini chocolate chips or dried fruit. Customise with your favourite flavours and enjoy these crunchy, homemade treats straight from the fridge.
2. Cheesy Cracker Snacks
Elevate ordinary crackers by topping them with creative ingredients you likely have on hand. Spread crackers with chutney, peanut butter or cream cheese. Top with slices of cheese, pepperoni, torn basil leaves, halved cherry tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, caramelised onions, olive tapenade, pesto or your favorite spices. Arrange them on a plate, pop them in the oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and you have quick, yum snacks.
3. Fruity Yoghurt Bark
Yoghurt bark makes a fresh, protein-packed snack that comes together in minutes. Stir together plain yoghurt with a bit of honey or maple syrup and vanilla. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and top with your favourite fruits like mango, berries, banana slices or pomegranate arils. Freeze for 1-2 hours, then break into pieces. The yoghurt provides creaminess while the fruits add natural sweetness and texture for a cool, refreshing treat.
4. Chickpea Popcorn
For a savoury, crunchy snack, try roasted chickpeas tossed in spices. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas and pat dry with a paper towel. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and cayenne. Roast at 190°C for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy. Let cool and devour as a fibre and protein packed alternative to popcorn or crisps.
5. Nutty Overnight Oats
Make a batch of overnight oats on Sunday and have ready-to-grab breakfasts or snacks all week long. Simply mix together oats, milk or yoghurt and your favourite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, peanut butter, fruit, cocoa powder or protein powder. Portion into jars or containers and refrigerate 8+ hours so the oats soak up the liquid and soften. Top with extra fruit, granola and drizzle of honey before enjoying this make-ahead snack.
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6. Pizza Quesadillas
For a quick snack with a pizza twist, stuff a tortilla with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella and pepperoni. Fold in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese melts. Slice into wedges and dip into additional marinara sauce for an easy, cheesy treat. Swap in your favourite pizza toppings like mushrooms, peppers or plant-based sausage.
7. Baked Apple Chips
Skip the packaged chips and make your own healthy apple chips instead. Thinly slice apples and arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 100°C for 1.5-2 hours, flipping once, until dried and crispy. Season with cinnamon or spices for flavour. These sweet and crunchy chips make a nutritious on-the-go snack.
8. Energy Balls
Make a batch of energy balls for a grab-and-go snack you can store in the fridge or freezer. Combine dried fruit, nuts, seeds, oats, nut butter, cocoa powder, spices and a sticky binder like honey, maple syrup or melted chocolate chips. Shape into balls and roll in toppings like shredded coconut, sesame seeds or crushed pistachios. Enjoy one or two when you need an energy boost or sweet treat, no baking required.
9. Roasted Chickpea Salad
For a savoury plant-based snack, toss roasted chickpeas with fresh veggies, herbs and a lemony dressing. Roast chickpeas with olive oil and spices as above. Toss while warm with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion and fresh parsley or cilantro. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper and drizzle over the salad. The chickpeas add protein and crunch for a nourishing snack you can make in advance.
10. Greek Yoghurt Parfait
In a glass or bowl, layer one cup of Greek yoghurt with your favourite toppings. Start with a spoonful of yoghurt at the bottom, then add a layer of sliced fresh fruits like berries or bananas. Sprinkle some granola or crushed nuts on top of the fruit layer. Repeat the layers until you've used all the ingredients. Finish with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness, if desired.
Satisfying snack cravings is easy with these clever DIY snacks made with simple ingredients. Whip up crunchy cereal clusters, cheesy crackers, chilled yoghurt bark and more when mid-meal hunger strikes. With endless flavour combinations and easy recipes requiring 10 minutes or less, you can snack well without the fuss.
