March 1st is National Peanut Butter Day! And we’ve got the most delicious – and one fun – ways to celebrate one of our favorite foods. Peanut butter is a huge favorite for its flavor, but it’s also known for being a healthy staple for kids and adults alike. Peanut butter boasts upwards of 7 grams of protein per serving and 16 grams of healthy fat, along with 2 grams of fiber – all while being lower in sugar. Its dense, nutrient rich, deliciousness means you don’t need a lot to feel full, making it an easy go to for snacks and meals alike.
Peanut Butter Energy Balls
These delicious, no bake bites are a great snack or even an on-the-go breakfast! Full of protein and fiber, they’ll keep you full and energized:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup smooth or chunky peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 3 Tablespoons chia seeds
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to mix. Once combined, scoop a small spoonful and form into a ball.
- Freeze or refrigerate until set and enjoy!
PB and Banana Smoothie
This recipe is a perfect after school snack. Full of protein and fiber, it will keep little tummies full until dinner, without loading up on sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 Banana
- 1/2 cup chunky or smooth peanut butter
- Drizzle of honey
- Milk to blend
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender – add a splash of milk to blend and honey to taste. Serve and enjoy.
Peanut Butter Dip
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again; a dip is a great way to get kids to try something new! This delicious dip is healthy as it is versitile – try it with apple slices or celery, it’s equally as yummy!
Ingredients:
- 10 ozs vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup of smooth peanut butter
- 1 Tablespoon honey
Directions:
- Whip ingredients together with a whisk or hand held mixer. Serve with celery stalks, apple slices, banana spears, pretzels…the possibilities are endless!
PB Bird Feeders
What’s better than sharing something delicious with friends! Creating bird feeders out of household items is easy, fun, and perfect practice for little hands learning motor skills.
You’ll need:
- chunky or smooth peanut butter
- pine cone or toilet paper tube
- knife or spatula for spreading
- bird seed
- yard or other material suitable for hanging
Instructions:
- Slather your pine cone or tube in peanut butter using your knife, spatula or even fingers.
- Then roll the object in bird seed.
- Tie with string and hang near a window so you can watch your feathered friends enjoy!
Need some more fun activities, including how to get your children through Day Light Savings Time? Click over to our blog to read more.
