51 Cheap Healthy Snacks For Kids and Adults to Lose Weight

Maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Settling for cheap junk food can seem like an easy option. But with a bit of creativity, it’s possible to get cheap healthy snacks without breaking the bank. 

Whether you’re looking for quick and easy options to take on the go or snacks to enjoy at home, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that are both nutritious and delicious. 

Cheap Healthy Snacks – Sweet

Whether you have a sweet tooth or suffer from the condition of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it is always recommended to keep a few healthy sweet snacks to munch on in times of need.

Examples of sweet snacks include chocolate, candy, ice cream, pudding, fruit, smoothies, and granola bars.

Here’s a list of some of the cheapest, yet healthiest sweet snack ideas which you can easily prepare and get on a budget.

1. Chocolate Banana Bites 

Chocolate banana bites are a sweet and delicious snack that is easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• Wax paper

Instructions:

• Slice a banana into bite-sized pieces
• Dip each piece in melted dark chocolate
• Place on a sheet of wax paper and freeze for 1 hour
• Enjoy as a frozen treat

2. Peanut Butter and Jelly Energy Bites

Peanut butter and jelly energy bites are a nutritious and delicious snack that is perfect for a quick energy boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup jelly or jam of your choice
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

• Combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup jelly in a bowl
• Roll mixture into bite-sized balls
• Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving

3. Baked Apples

Baked apples are a sweet and healthy snack that is easy to make and perfect for the fall season.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium apples
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter or coconut oil

Instructions:

• Core an apple and slice it into thin wedges
• Arrange apple slices on a baking sheet
• Sprinkle with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey
• Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until apples are tender

4. Homemade Granola Bars 

Granola bars are a nutritious and delicious snack that is perfect for the on-the-go. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsalted nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
• 1/4 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
• 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

• Mix 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup coconut oil, and 1/4 cup chopped nuts and peanut butter in a bowl
• Press mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes
• Allow to cool and cut into small granola bars

5. Yogurt Parfait

A yogurt parfait is a healthy and delicious snack that is perfect for breakfast or as a light dessert. They are a great way to incorporate healthy nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants into your diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup granola
• 1/2 cup mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

• Layer Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and granola in a glass or jar
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness

6. Frozen Grapes

Frozen grapes are a simple and healthy snack that is perfect for a hot day. They make a great alternative to sugary popsicles or ice cream, and they are packed with beneficial nutrients. In addition, they are super easy to make and store in the freezer whenever you need a cool and healthy treat.

Ingredients:

• Grapes (any variety)

Instructions:

• Rinse grapes and pat dry
• Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-3 hours
• Enjoy as a refreshing frozen snack

7. Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Chocolate avocado pudding is a healthy and delicious snack that is packed with nutrients and fiber. It is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still getting in a dose of healthy fats and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond milk or other milk of your choice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Blend 2 ripe avocados, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup almond milk in a food processor until smooth
• Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving

8. Sweet Potato Brownies

A healthier alternative to traditional brownies, this snack is a great way to satisfy your chocolate cravings while still getting in some healthy nutrients like fiber and beta-carotene. They are also gluten-free and can be easily modified for vegan or paleo diets.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato (cooked and mashed)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Mix 1 cup mashed sweet potato, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/4 cup honey in a bowl
• Pour mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes
• Allow to cool and cut into squares

9. Cinnamon Roasted Almonds

Another great option would be Cinnamon roasted almonds. They make a healthy and flavourful snack that is perfect for a quick energy boost. They make a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, and the cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Toss almonds with melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt
• Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F for 15-20 minutes
• Allow it to cool before serving

10. Fruit Salad 

Fruit salad is a great way to get in a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from different fruits, and the honey and lemon juice add a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance out the flavors. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (such as berries, kiwi, pineapple, mango, grapes, etc.)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

• Cut up a variety of fresh fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and pineapple)
• Combine in a bowl and serve chilled

Cheap Healthy Snacks – Savoury

Contrary to sweet snacks, savory snacks, on the other hand, are snacks that have a more salty or spicy taste.

Whether you’re looking for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a pre-dinner appetizer, these cheap and healthy savory snack ideas are sure to hit the spot. 

11. Roasted Chickpeas 

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and savory snack that is high in protein and fiber. This snack is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, or any other spices you like

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Rinse and dry chickpeas.
• Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and desired seasonings.
• Spread chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 min, stirring occasionally.
• Let cool and serve.

12. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to regular French fries. They are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Sour cream for a dip
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss sweet potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
• Spread fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until fries are crispy and golden brown.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

13. Popcorn with Seasoning

Popcorn with seasoning is a healthy and low-calorie snack that can be enjoyed anytime.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 1-2 tbsp oil (such as vegetable or coconut oil)
• Salt and other desired seasonings (such as nutritional yeast, garlic powder, chili powder, or cinnamon)

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add popcorn kernels and cover with a lid. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning.
• When the popping slows down, remove from heat and let rest for a few seconds until the popping stops completely.
• Pour popped popcorn into a large bowl and season with salt and desired seasonings. Toss it well.
• Serve!

14. Edamame

This is a delicious and healthy snack that is packed with protein and nutrients. Edamame can also be seasoned with other flavors such as garlic, soy sauce, or sesame oil. It can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Ingredients:

• Edamame pods (fresh or frozen)
• Salt (optional)

Instructions:

• If using frozen edamame, defrost according to package instructions.
• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the edamame pods to the boiling water and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
• Drain the edamame and transfer it to a bowl.
• Sprinkle with salt if desired and toss to coat.
• Serve and enjoy!

15. Baked Tortilla Chips

Baked tortilla chips are a healthier alternative to traditional fried tortilla chips. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as a snack or paired with your favorite dip.

Ingredients:

• Corn tortillas
• Cooking spray
• Salt

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cut the tortillas into triangles or strips.
• Place the tortilla pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Spray the tortillas with cooking spray.
• Sprinkle salt over the tortillas.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and lightly browned.
• Allow the tortilla chips to cool before serving.

16. Roasted Nuts

A crunchy and savory snack that is easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed nuts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Toss nuts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Spread out evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nuts are lightly browned and fragrant.

17. Homemade Hummus with Veggies

A nutritious, delicious, and tasty snack that is perfect for dipping veggies into.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Veggies for dipping 

Instructions:

• Drain and rinse chickpeas.
• Combine chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.

18. Kale Chips

A crispy and crunchy snack that is packed with vitamins and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of kale
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Remove kale leaves from stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
• Toss kale with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Spread out evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until kale is crispy and lightly browned.

19. Greek Yogurt with Cucumber and Dill

A refreshing and protein-packed snack that is perfect for a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions:

• Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Stir until well combined.
• Serve chilled.

20. Ants on a Log (Celery with Peanut Butter and Raisins)

A fun and kid-friendly snack that is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

• Celery stalks
• Peanut butter
• Raisins 

Instructions:

• Wash celery and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
• Spread peanut butter into celery pieces.
• Top with raisins.

21. Devilled Eggs

A classic and protein-rich snack that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions:

• Hard-boil eggs by boiling them for 10-12 minutes.
• Once cooled, peel the eggs, and cut them in half.
• Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
• Add mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper to yolks and mix until well combined.
• Spoon mixture back into egg whites. 

22. Mini Pita Pizzas

Mini pita pizzas are a fun and easy snack that can be customized to your liking. They are a healthier alternative to traditional pizza and are perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

• Mini whole wheat pitas
• Tomato sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., sliced vegetables, diced ham or chicken, olives, mushrooms)

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the mini pitas on a baking sheet.
• Spread tomato sauce on each pita, leaving a little bit of space around the edges.
• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce.
• Add your toppings of choice (e.g. pumpkin seeds).
• Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the pitas are crispy.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

23. Turkey Roll-Ups (Turkey Slices with Hummus and Cucumber)

A quick and easy snack made with lean protein, creamy hummus, and refreshing cucumber slices which you should add to your grocery list.

Ingredients:

• Deli turkey slices
• Hummus
• Cucumber slices 

Instructions:

• Spread a layer of hummus onto each turkey slice.
• Place a cucumber slice on one end of the turkey slice and roll it up.
• Serve and enjoy.

24. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers

A satisfying snack that combines protein and fiber for a filling and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• Whole grain crackers
• Cheese slices or cubes 

Instructions:

• Place a cheese slice or cube onto each whole-grain cracker.
• Serve and enjoy.

25. Tuna Salad with Crackers or Cucumber Slices

A protein-rich snack that can be enjoyed on crackers or cucumber slices.

Ingredients:

• Canned tuna
• Greek yogurt
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Whole grain crackers or cucumber slices 

Instructions:

• Mix the tuna, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Spoon the tuna salad onto each whole grain cracker or cucumber slice.
• Serve and enjoy.

26. Baked Zucchini Chips

Crispy and healthy, baked zucchini chips are the perfect snack or side dish. 

Ingredients:

• Zucchini
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
• Toss sliced zucchini in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl.
• Dip zucchini slices into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Place zucchini on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

27. Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup

A classic comfort food for healthy eating, pairing, grilled cheese, and tomato soup makes a quick and easy lunch or dinner option. Tomato can offer you a good dose of vitamin C as well! This budget-friendly option is sure to be a keeper.

Ingredients:

• Bread slices/pita bread
• Butter
• Cheddar cheese
• Tomato soup

Instructions:

• Butter one side of each bread slice.
• Place a slice of cheese between two bread slices, with the buttered side facing out.
• Heat a pan on medium heat and cook the sandwich on both sides until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
• Serve with warm tomato soup

28. Bruschetta with Whole Grain Toast

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that consists of toasted bread topped with a mixture of tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. This version uses whole-grain toast for an added health boost, which makes it one of the most nutritious snacks.

Ingredients:

• Whole grain bread
• Tomatoes
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Basil

Instructions:

• Toast bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until crispy.
• Chop tomatoes and garlic and mix with olive oil and chopped basil in a bowl.
• Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread slices.

29. Mini Quiches or Frittatas

These mini quiches or frittatas are a delicious and easy breakfast or brunch option. They can be customized with any combination of veggie, meat, or cheese, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. They make the perfect snack.

Ingredients:

• Eggs
• Milk
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetables (e.g. spinach, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers)
• Cheese (e.g. cheddar, feta)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Add chopped vegetables and cheese to the mixture.
• Pour mixture into a greased muffin tin.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until the quiches or frittatas are set and golden brown.

30. Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Pita Chips

This flavourful dip is made with roasted red peppers, garlic, and Greek yogurt for a tangy and creamy dip that pairs perfectly with crunchy pita chips.

Ingredients:

• Roasted red peppers
• Garlic
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

• Blend roasted red peppers and garlic in a food processor.
• Add Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mixture and blend until smooth.
• Serve with pita chips.

31. Veggie Skewers with Yogurt Dip

These colorful veggie skewers are a fun and healthy snack or appetizer that is perfect for parties or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Bell pepper
• Zucchini
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Dill

Instructions:

• Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
• Thread veggies onto skewers and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grill or broil for a few minutes until slightly charred and cooked through.
• Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill in a bowl for a dip.
• Serve veggie skewers with yogurt dip.

Nutritious Snacks for Kids

Getting affordable and nutritious snacks for kids is important for several reasons. These include supporting their growth and preventing obesity.

Without further ado, let’s head to our list of 10 kid-friendly, nutritious, and affordable snack ideas, along with tricks to make them fun and appealing to children:

32. Apple Slices or Apple Rings with Peanut Butter

Slice apples into thin pieces and serve with peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter. 

Fun Twist: Make it fun by using cookie cutters to cut the apple slices into fun shapes.

33. Yogurt Parfait

Layer yogurt with fresh berries and granola in a clear cup or bowl. 

Fun Twist: Allow children to make their parfait by providing a selection of toppings such as nuts, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips.

34. Trail Mix

Mix nuts, seeds, and dried fruit in a bowl and sprinkle some chocolate chips over them. This can make an excellent afternoon snack. 

Fun Twist: Allow children to make their trail mix by providing a selection of ingredients to choose from.

35. Homemade Popcorn

Pop plain popcorn and season with nutritional yeast, cinnamon, or other favorite seasonings. 

Fun Twist: Serve in fun, colorful bowls or bags.

36. Smoothie topped with Chocolate Chips

Blend frozen fruit, yogurt, and milk or juice. 

Fun Twist: Serve in a fun cup with a straw and let children choose their fruit combinations.

37. Veggie Chips and Dip

Serve homemade veggie chips made from thinly sliced veggies like zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes with a healthy dip such as hummus or ranch made with Greek yogurt.

Fun Twist: Arrange the veggies and dips on a colorful plate or tray and let kids dip and eat with their hands. You can also use fun-shaped cookie cutters to make veggie shapes.

38. Roasted Chickpeas

Roast chickpeas with olive oil and spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. 

Fun Twist: Serve in a fun, colorful bowl or bag.

39. Cheese and Crackers

Serve whole-grain crackers with sliced cheese or string cheese. 

Fun Twist: Use cookie cutters to cut the cheese into fun shapes.

40. Fruit Kebabs

Thread sliced fruit such as strawberries, pineapple, and grapes onto skewers. 

Fun Twist: Let children make their kebabs and serve them with a healthy dip such as Greek yogurt or honey.

41. Banana Ice Cream or Banana Bread

Blend frozen bananas with a splash of milk or yogurt until smooth. Alternatively, settle for the yummy banana bread!

Fun Twist: Serve in a fun bowl and let children choose their toppings such as berries or chocolate chips.

Snack Options That Require No Preparation

There are plenty of affordable and nutritious snack options that require no preparation at all. These snacks are perfect for busy adults who are conscious of their food intake and want to fuel their bodies with healthy food but don’t have the time or energy to prepare elaborate meals.

42. Fresh Fruit and Raw Veggies

Apples, bananas, oranges, carrots, celery, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes are perfect for a low-calorie snack that’s packed with nutrients. You can store them as frozen fruits (like frozen grapes). Better yet, invest in an electric blender bottle, and throw in some apples, bananas, and carrots to get your daily dose of nutrition.

43. Nuts

Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a filling and nutritious dried fruit snack. You can have these as a pre-workout supplement and even for post-workout!

44. Seeds

Sunflower seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and other seeds are also great sources of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

45. Jerky

Beef, turkey, and other types of jerky are high in protein and can satisfy cravings for something savory.

46. Cheese

String cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and cheese sticks are convenient and tasty snacks that can help keep you full.

47. Hard-boiled eggs

These are an easy and portable snack that is high in protein and can keep you feeling satisfied.

48. Hummus and veggie sticks

Hummus is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and pairing it with raw veggies adds fiber and nutrients.

49. Yogurt

Greek yogurt is high in protein and can be topped with fruit or granola for a satisfying snack.

50. Rice cakes and Banana Bread

Rice cakes and banana bread are low-carb snacks that can be topped with nut butter, cheese, or veggies for added flavor and nutrition. This snack can let you keep track of your daily calorie intake as well!

51. Dark chocolate

A small piece of dark chocolate can satisfy a sweet tooth and also provide antioxidants and other health benefits.

Final Thoughts

All in all, it can be said that happiness and health go hand in hand. Though healthy snacking is encouraged as part of most fitness regimes, it is also important to put in the physical effort too! Investing in fitness equipment like Peloton Elliptical can be heavy on your pocket, but healthy snacking doesn’t have to be!

Only add some ingredients to your grocery list and you’ll be good to go.

Additionally, you can even give a loved one a thoughtful gift in the form of a gift card, in particular, a Peloton Gift Card may be applicable in this case, so that they take care of their health.

With these 51 affordable and nutritious snack ideas and food tips, you can easily satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank or sacrificing your health goals. 

From sweet to savory, crunchy to creamy, there is something for everyone on this list. With a little bit of planning, you can easily incorporate these snacks into your daily routine and feel good about fueling your body with wholesome, delicious options, instead of junk food. 

So go ahead and give them a try – your taste buds and wallet will thank you!