Finger Foods for Preschoolers

Making finger foods for preschoolers can be an enjoyable and creative experience. Whether you want to make a healthy recipe or a sweet recipe to celebrate a preschool event, making finger foods at home is a cost-effective way to please your preschoolers and make any party better.

Fruit Kabobs

Fruits are one of the healthiest finger foods for children of any age. Preschoolers will enjoy apple slices, bananas, kiwi, sliced oranges and grapes served kabob-style or on toothpicks or mini plastic swords.

Mini Muffins

Make a sweet treat for your preschoolers with muffin mix and mini muffin liners. You can make chocolate muffins, fruit muffins or caramel muffins. These snacks are convenient and cost less than purchasing mini muffins at a supermarket or bakery. Decorate the mini muffins with card stock, toothpicks and stickers by cutting the card stock into small squares and securing the toothpick onto the card with the sticker.

Puppy Chow

Puppy chow is a finger food that is sure to please preschoolers. Mix 1/2 cup peanut butter (be aware of students' potential food allergies), 1/4 cup butter and 1 cup chocolate chips in a microwavable bowl. Microwave the ingredients for one minute and add 1/2 tsp. vanilla. Stir thoroughly. Pour 9 cups of Crispix cereal into a large mixing bowl and pour the melted peanut butter and chocolate mixture over the cereal. Stir the cereal until it is well blended and evenly coated. Sprinkle 1-1/2 cups powdered sugar into the bowl and toss the cereal until each piece is evenly covered with powered sugar. Serve in plastic baggies or individual bowls.

Caramel Popcorn

Caramel popcorn is a special treat preschoolers will appreciate and ask for again and again. Pop 6 quarts of plain popcorn and set the popcorn aside in a large mixing bowl. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups packed brown sugar, 1 cup cubed butter, 1/2 cup corn syrup and 1 tsp. salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil the mixture for five minutes. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in 3 tbsp. vanilla extract and 1/2 tsp. baking soda, mixing well. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and stir until all of the popcorn is evenly coated. Divide the popcorn into two greased 13-inch by 9-inch baking pans. Cook the popcorn uncovered in an oven heated to 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Stir the popcorn at 15-minute intervals. Allow the popcorn to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

References

• All Foods Natural: Great Finger Foods for Children Parties
• Moms Who Think: Puppy Chow Recipe
• Taste of Home: Courtside Caramel Corn