The kids are back in school and having snack options on hand when they get home from school is important. A quick snack can help keep them going for completing homework, participating in after-school sports, and all their other after-school activities.

Processed, unhealthy food is sure to make them crash later, however, so keeping something healthy AND delicious on hand that can be made in a flash or even prepped before school is the best way to keep them happy and full of energy!

Hummus is packed with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients growing minds and bodies need, but not exactly what kids or picky eaters would pick for their after-school snack. That’s why we’ve created three kid-friendly hummus recipes that are sure to be a hit!

Typically made with garbanzo beans, we subbed in our best-selling great northern beans and replaced some of the more complex tahini flavors with something a little sweeter your kids will love, like peanut butter, Nutella, and even pumpkin pie! Their smoother texture made these recipes easy to sneak beans in and absorb the sweet flavors with ease.

What’s even better is that these recipes aren’t just for kids! Parents will love them just the same as a simple, sweet snack without the guilt and are perfect appetizers for holiday parties and get-togethers. Try making all three and tell us which one you like the best!

Each can be quickly made in advance and last up to a week in the fridge in an air-tight container.

 

Thai Peanut Butter Hummus

Not too sweet, with a hint of spice, this recipe can go sweet or savory. Peanut butter is usually a kid-approved ingredient, but this hummus is so good, you’ll be taking it to the office too! Adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/3 cups Randall Great Northern Beans
• 4 Tbsp. creamy peanut butter
• 1 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• Sriracha, to taste
• Honey roasted peanuts, crushed, to top

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse beans.
2. Add to food processor, followed by remaining ingredients (start with a little siracha at a time, adjust to taste).
3. Pulse until smooth.
4. If hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time, until a smooth consistency is reached.
5. Serve topped with honey roasted peanuts. We suggest serving with carrots, plantain chips, or apple slices!

 

Nutella Hummus

While Nutella may not win any awards for being a healthy choice, combining it with beans cuts back on the fat and sugar, while still delivering on rich, chocolatey flavor! This can be great for a sweet tooth craving without all the guilt.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/3 cups Randall Great Northern Beans
• 2/3 cup Nutella spread
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 3 Tbsp. melted coconut oil
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse beans.
2. Add to food processor, followed by remaining ingredients.
3. Pulse until smooth.
4. If hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time, until a smooth consistency is reached.
5. Serve with fresh strawberries or other sliced fruit.

 

Pumpkin Pie Chocolate Chip Hummus

Try not to hide this one from your kids, because you may want it all to yourself! With Fall approaching (along with bake sales and holiday parties) you’ll want this recipe to wow, complete with hidden healthy ingredients. One taste tester couldn’t believe there were beans in it at all! As an added bonus, we’ve made this recipe vegan by sweetening it with maple syrup and using vegan chocolate!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/3 cups Randall Great Northern Beans
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• 3 Tbsp. maple syrup (the real kind)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
• Sprinkle of salt
• ½ cup mini vegan mini chocolate chips (we love the Enjoy Life brand) plus extra to top

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse beans.
2. Add to food processor, followed by remaining ingredients, minus the chocolate chips.
3. Pulse until smooth.
4. Stir in mini chocolate chips, and top with more if desired.
5. Serve with graham crackers, fruit, or pretzels!

 

Want some more sweet treats to satisfy you and your kids’ sweet tooth without the guilt of unhealthy recipes? We have recipes for brownies, cookies, cakes, and pies, every recipe uses Randall Beans as a protein-packed substitute to help you enjoy a healthier dessert choice.