These easy Mango Popsicles are a favorite summertime treat. Packed with just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess, the fresh mango flavor is out of this world! Great for 9+ months.

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Healthy Mango Popsicles

Anytime I’ve got a cranky kiddo in the house (or a cranky husband, for that matter), I break out some of these easy mango popsicles to share.

Because really, they could be called sunshine popsicles on account of how they seem to automatically brighten your day.

I mean, have you ever seen anyone frown while eating a popsicle?

The answer is no.

I’m convinced that these healthy mango popsicles are an instant mood booster due to their hefty dose of vitamin C, as well as their lovely sunset orange hue. It also probably doesn’t hurt that they’re a refreshing and delicious way to keep you hydrated during hot weather.

If you are looking for more easy and healthy frozen desserts for your little one, then be sure to check out these delicious Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles, Healthy Green Smoothie Popsicles, these reader-favorite Homemade Yogurt Tubes, or these hidden-veggie filled Healthy Popsicles for Toddlers. You can also find more recipes and information in my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love Mango Popsicles

• Incredibly easy to prepare
• Makes for a refreshing treat on a hot day
• Naturally sweetened for a healthier treat
• Easy to eat and can be enjoyed on-the-go
• Quick source of hydration and nutrients for kids who don’t drink enough water
• Great recipe for kids to help with in the kitchen
• Can easily be made dairy free

Ingredients

Make sure to read the recipe card below for full ingredients and instructions!

• Mango: fresh or thawed from frozen
• Maple Syrup: for this recipe, we will use maple syrup, but you can also use honey (for babies over 1), agave nectar, or simple syrup.
• Yogurt: plain whole milk yogurt, regular or plant-based alternative
• Lime: you’ll need 1/2 lime, juiced

Health Benefits of Mango Popsicles: These popsicles are not only popping with flavor, but nutritious benefits, too! They are full of vitamins A and C, calcium, protein, and healthy fats- all things kids need for healthy growth and development!

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and puree until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds and place in the freezer.
3. Freeze for at least 5 hours, but preferably overnight.
4. Pop the popsicles out of the molds and enjoy!

Add-Ins

You can make these easy popsicles as-is or you can add in one or two extra ingredients. Here are a couple of our favorite additions:

• chopped strawberries
• mini chocolate chips
• crushed graham crackers
• slices or chopped pieces of mango
• blended with a few teaspoons of flax seeds or hemp seeds
• blend with a handful of spinach

Cooking with Kids

Kids love getting involved in the kitchen and making popsicles is always an especially fun recipe for them to help prepare.

Toddlers

• Toddlers can help measure and pour the ingredients into the blender.
• They can help put the lid on the blender and push start. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp.
• Once blended, toddlers can help pour the popsicle mixture into the popsicle molds. You may want to pour the popsicle mixture into a smaller measuring cup with pour lip to make it easier on them.
• With help, they can place the popsicle molds into the freezer. My kids always spill the tray at this point, so just give them an extra hand.

Kids

• You can pretty much let older kids make this recipe by themselves.
• They can pick out and measure all of the ingredients. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp.
• Kids can pour the popsicle mixture into the molds and place the popsicles into the freezer.

How to Store

After removing the popsicles from the popsicle molds, store these mango popsicles in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month in the freezer.

Best Popsicle Molds

If you’re looking for fun and colorful popsicles molds, check out my guide to 6 of the best kid-friendly popsicle molds. There are options for every age – babies, toddlers, and big kids (including adults).

Print

Creamy 5-Minute Mango Popsicles

These easy mango popsicles are a favorite summertime treat. Packed with just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess, the fresh mango flavor is out of this world! Great for 9+ months.

Course Dessert, Snack

Prep Time 5 hours hours

Freeze Time 5 hours hours

Total Time 5 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 6 medium popsicles

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Big Popsicle Molds
• Small Popsicle Mold
• Measuring Cups

Ingredients

• 3 cups mango chunks, fresh or thawed from frozen
• 1/3 cup plain whole milk yogurt, regular or plant-based
• 3 tbsp maple syrup, honey (for babies over 1), agave nectar or simple syrup
• 1/2 lime, juiced

Instructions

• Place all of the ingredients into a blender.
  
• Blend for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is completely smooth.
  
• Pour the banana mixture into popsicle molds.
  
• Place in the freezer for at least 5 hours, but preferably overnight.
• Remove the popsicle from the mold, and enjoy!
  

Notes

Age: 9+ months (omit the sweetener for 12 months and younger)

Yield: this recipe makes roughly 2 1/2 cups of popsicle mixture. You may need to increase/decrease that amount based on your popsicle mold size. If you have any leftovers, feel free to serve it as a smoothie or smoothie bowl to your kiddos (or yourself). 

Notes on Yogurt: you can use plain, vanilla, honey (for babies over 1), or whichever other flavor sounds good or you have on hand. I recommend using whole milk yogurt to help boost the flavor and thickness. You can also use any plant-based yogurt you prefer as well – oat, cashew, almond, soy, etc. 

Yogurt Swirl: I added a few spoonfuls of yogurt that was mixed with a little maple syrup, to the middle of a few of these mango popsicles. I did not freeze in between layers, I just poured the mango popsicle 1/3 the way up the mold, then added in a few spoonfuls of yogurt before filling the popsicle mold up with more mango puree. 

Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your fruit and your sweetness preference, I recommend tasting the popsicle base before pouring it into the molds, as you may need a little more maple syrup. 

The post Easy Mango Popsicles appeared first on Baby Foode.

Mangoes are a popular tropical fruit that’s sweet and delicious. Preparing mangoes can seem daunting, especially when this fruit isn’t always in season. Learn how to pick, store, and freeze mango so you’ll never run out of a sweet stash at home.

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

How to Pick, Store & Freeze Mango

The tropical and sweet taste of fresh mango can’t be beat – but choosing, storing and cutting mango can sometimes feel a little intimidating. After all, most of us don’t have access to a fresh supply of this delicious seasonal fruit all year long.

So, what to do if your ‘mango game’ feels a little rusty? Well, don’t worry, because I’ve got you covered with this guide on how to pick, store, and freeze mango. You’ll learn how to pick mango at peak ripeness, cut it properly and store it for ultimate freshness. And you’ll find some of my favorite recipes to use with this fantastic summertime fruit as a bonus!

Mango Benefits

Mangos are a good source of fiber and vitamin B6, and are high in vitamins A and C. They also contain potassium, magnesium, and copper, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help boost immunity! 💪 And fear not — if you’re worried the mango may be too tart for your baby, it actually has far less acid than most fruits, so it will be gentle on sweet little baby tummies.

How to Pick Ripe Mango

Here’s how to select a mango that’s perfectly ripe and ready to enjoy:

• Squeeze it:  Feel the mango with your fingers. When gently squeezed, it should give lightly to pressure if it’s ripe. If it’s hard as a rock, it’s not ripe yet.
• Don’t worry about color:  Yes, with most other fruits and veggies, we often look for specific colors. However, there are many different varieties of mangoes, including green, orange, red, and yellow. Color is not the best indicator of ripeness though. If you see black spots on the skin, that indicates that the mango is already ripe.
• Scent:  A ripe mango will have a sweet, fruity aroma.
• Heaviness:  Pick up the mango and feel for those that appear heavy for their size, which indicate ripeness.

Types of Mango: Did you know there are over 500 different types of mangoes in the world, each with its own unique flavor and texture? The most common variety sold in the United States is the Tommy Atkins, a large, reddish-orange fruit that’s tart with sweet notes of flavor.

How to Store Mango

• Put mangoes in the fridge once they are ripe, as this slows down the ripening process. 
• Whole, ripe mangoes can be stored for up to 1-2 weeks in the fridge.
• Mangoes freeze well for up to 4 months.

How to Store Cut Mango

Mangoes can be peeled, cubed and placed in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-7 days.

How to Cut Mango

1. Hold the mango so it is standing up on your cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut the mango down one side, either to the right or to the left of the center. Cutting the mango off-center helps you avoid the tough, inedible pit in the middle.
2. Cut the same way on the other side of the mango so you’ll have two halves.
3. Depending on the mango size, more fruit may be left around the pit. Carefully cut off 1/2 – 1 inch strips along the other two sides of the mango, still cutting around the pit.
4. Use the tip of a sharp knife to score the cut mango pieces, being careful not to cut through the skin. You can score the mango depending on what type of pieces you want (sliced, large chunks or smaller diced cubes).
5. Turn the mango flesh inside out so that each section of scored mango sticks out.  
6. Use a sharp knife, or spoon, to cut against the inside of the peel, so that each piece of scored mango comes loose from the peel. You can do this while holding the mango over a cutting board or bowl.
7. Add the mango chunks to a freezer-safe bag or stasher bag. Lay the bag on the counter.
8. Starting at the bottom of the bag and working towards the zip-lock closer, gently press out all the air.
9. Close the bag and then place it in the freezer to freeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Freeze Mango

• Cut: Remove the fruit from the peel and cut a ripe mango into chunks or slices.
• Remove Moisture: If the mango is very ripe and juicy, bloat any excess moisture with a paper towel.
• Freeze Option 1: lay the cut mango on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid before placing the frozen mango into a zip-lock baggie.
• Freeze Option 2: lay the cut mango directly into a zip-lock baggie flat in a single layer. Press out any excess air before making sure to zip the baggie securely. Freeze flat overnight.
• Store: store mango flat in a zip-lock bag for up to 4 months.

How to Thaw Frozen Mango

To thaw frozen mango, place the amount you want to use in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. You can also defrost mangoes in cold water in about 2-3 hours.

How to Use Frozen Mango

There are so many ways to use frozen mango. Here are some of our favorites:

• Making fruit smoothies taste a little more tropical
• Mango flavored milk
• Mix it with yogurt
• Creamy mango sorbet
• Mango popsicles

Favorite Recipes

Creamy Mango-licious Baby Food Puree

4.87 stars (30 ratings)

This 5-minute Mango Baby Food Puree is a great way to introduce baby to the magical taste of one of the world's healthiest fruits – MANGOS!

Get the recipe

Creamy Mango Yogurt (3-Ingredients)

5 stars (1 rating)

This creamy and flavorful Mango Yogurt blends up quickly and perfectly for breakfast, snack, or dessert! This yogurt dish is also full of protein, calcium, probiotics, and essential vitamins for all ages. Best of all, you can use fresh or frozen mangos! For ages 6+ months.

Get the recipe

Baby’s First Spinach Smoothie

5 stars (10 ratings)

Baby’s First Spinach Smoothie is packed with spinach, avocado, mango, banana, oats, chia seeds and coconut milk. This nutritious and delicious smoothie is easy to make and perfect for babies (and toddlers) 9 months and up!

Get the recipe

Mango + Kale Baby Food Puree with Ginger

4.88 stars (8 ratings)

This puree has it all – super sweet mango, healthy superstar kale and a pinch of tummy yummy ginger that will leave your baby happy and healthy! 

Get the recipe

The Best Homemade Mango Milk (3 Minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Need a fruity and refreshing twist on regular milk? This mango milk is quick to make and a great source of protein and calcium. Plus, it can be made with fresh or frozen mangoes. Great for toddlers, kids and even adults!

Get the recipe

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How to Cut & Freeze Mango (super easy!)

Mangoes are a popular tropical fruit that's sweet and delicious. Preparing mangoes can seem daunting, especially when this fruit isn't always in season. Learn how to pick, store, and freeze mango so you'll never run out of a sweet stash at home.

Course Side Dish

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freeze Time 5 hours hours

Total Time 5 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 2 cups

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• large cutting board
• Cuisinart Knife Set
• Stasher Storage Bag

Ingredients

• 1 ripe mango

Instructions

• Hold the mango so it is standing up on your cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut the mango down one side, either to the right or to the left of the center. Cutting the mango off-center helps you avoid the tough, inedible pit in the middle.
  
• Cut the same way on the other side of the mango so you’ll have two halves.
• Depending on the mango size, more fruit may be left around the pit. Carefully cut off 1/2 – 1 inch strips along the other two sides of the mango, still cutting around the pit.
• Use the tip of a sharp knife to score the cut mango pieces, being careful not to cut through the skin. You can score the mango depending on what type of pieces you want (sliced, large chunks or smaller diced cubes).
  
• Turn the mango flesh inside out so that each section of scored mango sticks out.
  
• Use a sharp knife, or spoon, to cut against the inside of the peel, so that each piece of scored mango comes loose from the peel. You can do this while holding the mango over a cutting board or bowl.
  
• Add the mango chunks to a freezer-safe bag or stasher bag. Lay the bag on the counter.
  
• Starting at the bottom of the bag and working towards the zip-lock closer, gently press out all the air.
  
• Close the bag and then place it in the freezer for at least 5 hours, but perferribly overnight.
• Once frozen, if there are any mango chunks sticking together, you can gently tap on them with the back of a spoon to loosen them.
  

The post How to Pick, Store & Freeze Mango appeared first on Baby Foode.

This healthy lactation smoothie is the perfect energy-boosting snack for expecting and postpartum mamas. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, you can even prep the ingredients ahead of time, and I have 8 different smoothie flavor options for you!

Medically reviewed and co-written by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Lactation Smoothie

Staying hydrated and energized is no small feat during pregnancy and postpartum. Between taking care of your body during pregnancy and then the constant demands of taking care of a newborn, your nutrition needs are high. That’s why this lactation smoothie is a lifesaver.

This lactation smoothie is packed full of nutrients, including calcium, fiber, potassium, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s the perfect smoothie to keep you feeling satiated and hydrated, while supporting your digestive system and keeping constipation struggles at bay. Plus, it contains ingredients like flax seeds, brewer’s yeast, and oats that can help with your milk supply.

I also love that you can whip up this lactation smoothie in under 5 minutes, making it a quick and simple way to help get your recommended intake of nutrients for the day. This lactation smoothie can be an easy addition to part of your breakfast, lunch, or dinner when you don’t feel like you have the time or energy to cook a large meal.

If you are looking for more easy and healthy recipes to support you while breastfeeding, then be sure to check out these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies, my favorite Lactation Brownies, or this entire guide on the Best Foods to Eat While Breastfeeding. You can also find more recipes and information in my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love this Easy Lactation Smoothie

• great source of vitamins and minerals
• energy boosting
• helps to satisfy hunger
• may help with breast milk supply
• quick to make for part of your breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack
• customizable – swap out different fruits or veggies as needed
• can be made dairy and gluten-free
• ingredients can be prepared in advance
• perfect one-handed snack for busy moms

Ingredients of Base Lactation Smoothie

• Spinach: fresh works best – rich in fiber and many nutrients, including vitamins A, C, K, iron, folate, and potassium.
• Peaches: frozen works best – it provides vitamin C, fiber, potassium, folate, and antioxidants.
• Banana: makes this smoothie wonderfully creamy and provides fiber, vitamins, and potassium, use frozen if you can, but fresh will also work.
• Milk: you can make this smoothie using any milk you prefer – regular or any plant-based milk such as almond, coconut, oat or soy.
• Honey: adding a sweetener is optional, but adding honey is a great way to sweeten smoothies naturally; you can also use maple syrup, agave nectar, or 2 pitted dates.
• Flax Seeds: rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds support digestion. Use ground flax seeds, as our bodies have a hard time digesting whole flax seeds. You can also sub out the flax seeds for chia seeds if you prefer.
• Brewers Yeast: one of the ingredients that can help with lactation, ground brewer’s yeast can be bought at any health food store or online. You only need a small quantity in recipes, so a package lasts a while.
• Oats: rolled oats or steel-cut oats are best, as they have a more neutral flavor and a softer texture, which makes them easier to blend. 

Tip: For a gluten-free smoothie, make sure you are using certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free brewer’s yeast. Most brewer’s yeast is a byproduct of the beer brewing process and contains gluten from the barley used to make beer. There are some brands of brewer’s yeast created using sugar beets and are certified gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender.
2. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes or until smooth.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy. I suggest using a stainless steel travel mug so the smoothie stays cold longer, as you may get interrupted by your little one while trying to finish your smoothie.

Ingredients that May Increase Milk Supply

Certain foods may help support your milk supply, though there is limited scientific evidence to prove this due to a lack of studies, despite these foods being used by women for centuries to help with lactation. You may want to add these to your diet to see if they help, but in moderation. Always consult your provider with any questions.

Oats: Oats contain fiber, iron, magnesium, zinc and other nutrients that nursing mothers need. Beta-glucan is a special type of fiber that can increase the hormone prolactin, which allows the breasts to make milk. Oats are also high in iron, which not getting enough of can have a negative impact on breastfeeding.

Ground Flax Seeds: Flax seeds contain phytoestrogens that can help increase milk production. They also contain calcium, magnesium, and zinc needed for breastfeeding. Use ground flax seeds for easier digestion and to get the most benefits out of them.

Brewer’s Yeast: Brewer’s yeast contains protein, B vitamins, iron, and chromium, which are all needed to support lactation. Don’t confuse it with nutritional yeast, which is a very different product!

Tools Needed

• Measuring Cups
• Cutting Board
• Blender

Nutritional Benefits of Lactation Smoothie

Smoothies can be packed with tons of nutrients important for mama and her growing baby, but it’s usually best to make them yourself rather than going to a smoothie bar where they are oversized and packed with too much sugar. Here are a few reasons to sip on your smoothie:

• Folate for baby’s brain development and prevention of neural tube defects and growth of the placenta
• Calcium for baby’s bone development
• Fiber to help keep mom’s digestive system regular and prevent constipation and hemorrhoids
• Iron to help deliver oxygen to your baby and build up baby’s iron stores
• Protein to help support the growth and development of your baby
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids for baby’s brain development
• Potassium helps maintain fluid balance in cells
• Choline for baby’s brain development and preventing neural tube defects
• Vitamin A helps form healthy skin and eyesight and bone development
• Vitamin C to help support mom’s immune system

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Smoothie Recipes

Never get bored with these 8 additional lactation smoothies ideas! Using the base pregnancy smoothie recipe below, you can easily create other smoothie flavors with just a few easy ingredient substitutions.

• Kale Yay: substitute the spinach for 1 cup of loosely packed, fresh or frozen kale
• Mango-licious: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen mango chunks
• Strawberry Blast: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen strawberries (shown above)
• Tropical Oasis: substitute the peaches with 1/2 cup frozen pineapple and 1/2 cup frozen mango and add in 2 tbsp shredded coconut flakes
• Blueberry Maven: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen blueberries
• Chocolate Peanut Butter: substitute the peaches with 1 frozen banana (there will be 2 bananas total) and add in 1 tbsp cocoa powder and 1 tbsp peanut butter (shown above)
• Mix-it-Up Berry: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen mixed berries
• Probiotic Power House: substitute in milk with 1/2 cup of kefir or yogurt and 1/2 cup of milk

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The Best Lactation Smoothie (5 Minutes)

This healthy lactation smoothie is the perfect energy-boosting snack for expecting and postpartum mamas. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, you can even prep the ingredients ahead of time, and I have 8 different smoothie flavor options for you!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 large smoothie

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Measuring Cups
• Kids Glass Cups

Ingredients

• 1 cup spinach, loosely packed
• 1 cup frozen peaches
• 1 ripe banana, frozen works best
• 1 cup milk, regular or any plant-based milk
• 1-2 tbsp honey, agave nectar or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tbsp rolled (old-fashioned) oats
• 1 tsp brewer's yeast
• 1 tsp ground flax seeds

Instructions

• Place all of the ingredients into the blender, starting with the milk.
  
• Starting on low and working your way to high – blend smoothie for 1-2 minutes or until creamy and smooth.
  
• Pour into a glass and enjoy!
  

Notes

More Smoothie Options:

• Kale Yay: substitute the spinach for 1 cup of loosely packed, fresh or frozen kale
• Mango-licious: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen mango chunks
• Strawberry Blast: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen strawberries (shown above)
• Tropical Oasis: substitute the peaches with 1/2 cup frozen pineapple and 1/2 cup frozen mango and add in 2 tbsp shredded coconut flakes
• Blueberry Maven: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen blueberries
• Chocolate Peanut Butter: substitute the peaches with 1 frozen banana (there will be 2 bananas total) and add in 1 tbsp cocoa powder and 1 tbsp peanut butter (shown above)
• Mix-it-Up Berry: substitute the peaches with 1 cup of frozen mixed berries
• Probiotic Power House: substitute in milk with 1/2 cup of kefir or yogurt and 1/2 cup of milk

The post The Best Lactation Smoothie appeared first on Baby Foode.

Bursting with flavor, these healthy banana popsicles can be blended up in just minutes. Banana popsicles have a creamy texture and natural sweetness that mimics traditional frozen treats, but as a healthier alternative, you can feel good about serving these popsicles for an afterschool treat anytime.

Medically reviewed and co-written by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Healthy Banana Popsicles

If you’re like me, the answer to the question of what to do with those ripe bananas on the counter has usually been either a) banana pancakes or b) banana muffins. But now we’ve got option c) banana popsicles!

Bananas are not only a great source of potassium and fiber, but when frozen and turned into popsicles, they make for a refreshing frozen treat that can be enjoyed guilt-free (I’m speaking from experience). I also like knowing that there’s no hidden ingredients in these healthy banana popsicles, like added sugars or artificial flavors.

With simple ingredients and less than 5 minutes (seriously, peeling the bananas is probably the most labor-intensive part), you’ll have creamy, dare-I-say-dreamy, banana-flavored popsicles that everyone will love.

If you are looking for more easy and healthy frozen desserts for your little one, then be sure to check out these delicious Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles, Healthy Green Smoothie Popsicles, these reader-favorite Homemade Yogurt Tubes, or these hidden-veggie filled Healthy Popsicles for Toddlers. You can also find more recipes and information in my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love Banana Popsicles

Make sure to read the recipe card below for full ingredients and instructions!

• Simple to prepare
• Makes for a refreshing treat on a hot day
• Naturally sweetened for a healthier treat
• Easy to eat and can be enjoyed on-the-go
• Quick source of hydration and nutrients for kids who don’t drink enough water
• Great recipe for kids to help with in the kitchen
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins

Ingredients

• Bananas: you’ll need 3 ripe bananas with lots of brown spots, or you can use frozen and thawed bananas.
• Maple Syrup: for this recipe, we are going to use maple syrup, but you can also use honey (for babies over 1), agave nectar, or simple syrup.
• Yogurt: plain whole milk yogurt, or a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond. Whichever you choose, using yogurt with more fat will help make a creamier popsicle.
• Cinnamon: this flavor blends so well with the bananas and sweetener, but you can also add a dash of vanilla extract or cocoa powder

Health Benefits of Banana Popsicles: These popsicles are ripe with nutritious benefits. Bananas provide tons of potassium, important electrolytes, and fiber to help keep digestive systems regular. And yogurt makes these popsicles rich in calcium for healthy bones and protein and fats for growth and development.

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and puree until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds and place in the freezer.
3. Freeze for at least 5 hours, but preferably overnight.
4. Pop the popsicles out of the molds and enjoy!

Add-Ins

You can make these easy popsicles as-is, or you can add in one or two extra ingredients. Here are a couple of our favorite additions:

• chopped strawberries
• mini chocolate chips
• crushed graham crackers
• slices or chopped pieces of banana
• a swirl of peanut butter or your favorite nut butter
• blend with a handful of spinach
• mango
• dip half of the frozen popsicles in melted chocolate and roll in chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles, for a sweet dessert for older kids

Cooking with Kids

This recipe is great for having your little ones help you with it.

Toddlers

• Toddlers can help measure and pour the ingredients into the blender.
• They can help put the lid on the blender and push start. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp.
• Once blended, toddlers can help pour the popsicle mixture into the popsicle molds. You may want to pour the popsicle mixture into a smaller measuring cup with a pour lip to make it easier on them.
• With help, they can place the popsicle molds into the freezer. My kids always spill the tray at this point, so just give them an extra hand.

Kids

• You can pretty much let older kids make this recipe by themselves.
• They can pick out and measure all of the ingredients. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp.
• Kids can pour the popsicle mixture into the molds and place the popsicles into the freezer.

How to Store

After removing the popsicles from the popsicle mold, store popsicles in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month in the freezer.

Best Popsicle Molds

If you’re looking for fun and colorful popsicle molds, check out my guide to 6 of the best kid-friendly popsicle molds. There are options for every age – babies, toddlers, and big kids (including adults). – link to our popsicle mold post

Print

Creamy Banana Popsicles (5-Minutes)

Bursting with flavor, these healthy banana popsicles can be blended up in just minutes. Banana popsicles have a creamy texture and natural sweetness that mimics traditional frozen treats, but as a healthier alternative, you can feel good about serving these popsicles for an afterschool treat anytime.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freeze Time 5 hours hours

Total Time 5 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 6 medium popsicles

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Big Popsicle Molds
• Small Popsicle Mold
• Measuring Cups

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas (with lots of brown spots)
• 1/4 cup plain whole milk yogurt, regular or plant-based yogurt
• 3 tbsp maple syrup, agave nectar, honey (babies over 1) or simple syrup
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

• Place all of the ingredients into a blender.
  
• Blend for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is completely smooth.
  
• Pour the banana mixture into popsicle molds.
  
• Place in the freezer for at least 5 hours, but preferably overnight.
• Remove the popsicle from the mold, and enjoy!
  

Notes

Age: 9+ months (omit the sweetener for 12 months and younger)

Yield: this recipe makes roughly 2 1/2 cups of popsicle mixture. You may need to increase/decrease that amount based on your popsicle mold size. If you have any leftovers, feel free to serve it as a smoothie or smoothie bowl to your kiddos (or yourself). 

Notes on Yogurt: you can use plain, vanilla, honey (for babies over 1), or whichever other flavor sounds good or you have on hand. I recommend using whole milk yogurt to help boost the flavor and thickness. You can also use any plant-based yogurt you prefer as well – oat, cashew, almond, soy, etc. 

Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your fruit and your sweetness preference, I recommend tasting the popsicle base before pouring it into the molds, you may need a little more maple syrup. 

The post Banana Popsicles appeared first on Baby Foode.

Summer is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to share 6 of our favorite kid-friendly popsicle molds for healthy, refreshing treats. Plus, we’ve got 10+ colorful and healthy popsicle recipes for a little extra inspiration when those dog days of summer hit.

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Best Popsicle Molds for Kids

Have you ever made your own homemade popsicles?

After seeing these fun and colorful popsicle molds, you’ll definitely want to! Making popsicles with these kid-friendly popsicle molds is also a great way to use up any fruits or veggies in your fridge or freezer that are about to expire. Simply blend them up into a smoothie and freeze them into popsicle molds!

Read on for what to look for in popsicle molds, 6 kid-friendly popsicle molds, and our favorite popsicle recipes.

What to Look for

There are many different types of popsicle molds available. And even though it truly is very easy to make your own popsicles, here are some things you might want to consider if you’re going to put in the effort.

• Drip tray or guard: Many popsicle molds have a drip tray or drip guard built in these days to help catch some of that inevitable melty popsicle; however, some are more pronounced than others. With older kids, this might not be as important, but with babies and toddlers, anything to help minimize a mess can be helpful.
• Size of the base: We’re talking about the base that you’ll pour your popsicle mixture into and then place in the freezer. Depending on how much freezer space you have and how many popsicles you’re making at one time, you may want something that doesn’t take up a lot of room.
• Size of the molds: With toddlers or younger kids, starting off with smaller-sized popsicle molds is best (because, trust me, you could be eating a lot of popsicles in the foreseeable future if your little one decides they don’t want to/can’t finish it all). Older kids will do better with medium-sized popsicle molds.
• Easy to clean: Dishwasher safe is always a bonus in our books, or at least easy to handwash.

How to Clean Popsicle Molds

Cleaning popsicle molds is pretty straightforward. Simply handwash them with warm, soapy water or place them in the top rack of your dishwasher.

Frequently Asked Questions

6 Favorite Popsicle Molds

These popsicle molds are all very budget friendly ($10-20) and are definitely worth the cost, as you can use them for years to make so many different kinds of popsicles.

Best for Baby & Toddlers

• ZOKU Mini Pop Molds
• Mini Silicone Popsicle Molds

Best for Kids

• Zoku Classic Pop Molds
• 6 Silicone Popsicle Molds
• Rainbow Popsicle Silicone Molds
• Collapsible Popsicles Molds

ZOKU Mini Pop Molds

These Zoku Mini Pop Molds make 9 mini pops in a fun, bite-sized round shape. This size is perfect for babies and toddlers. The silicone molds release easily from the base and each mold includes a stick with a drip guard.

ZOKU Mini Pop Molds

Amazon

6 Silicone Popsicle Molds

This set of 6 silicone popsicle molds is made of food-grade silicone. Each mold holds 4 ounces and is a good size for toddlers and older kids.

6 Silicone Popsicle Molds

Amazon

Mini Silicone Popsicle Molds

These mini silicone popsicle molds include 7 different colored molds. Each mold holds 2 ounces, making them a good size for babies and toddlers.

Mini Silicone Popsicle Molds

Amazon

Walmart

Zoku Classic Pop Molds

Zoku’s classic pop molds includes 6 molds that hold about 3 ounces each. Drip guards help catch messes and I love the covers so you can store leftovers.

Zoku Classic Pop Molds

Amazon

Walmart

Rainbow Popsicle Silicone Molds

These cute rainbow-colored popsicle molds include 6 popsicles that hold 3.3 ounces each. The outer frame of the popsicle molds is made of high-quality food-grade plastic, so that it stands sturdy in the fridge.

Rainbow Popsicle Silicone Molds

Amazon

Collapsible Popsicles Molds

These collapsible popsicles molds make it easy to remove popsicles, with just a simple push from the bottom. No need to run it under warm water, and no broken ice pops! Each mold holds about 3 ounces.

Collapsible Popsicles Molds

Amazon

Walmart

Favorite Popsicle Recipes

Here are several of my favorite popsicle recipes for inspiration. From traditional fruit popsicles, to green smoothie pops, and even healthy funfetti popsicles, there’s a recipe for every taste!

Strawberry Yogurt Popsicle

5 stars (3 ratings)

These 4-ingredient Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles are easy to make and are seriously delicious for the entire family!

Get the recipe

Green Smoothie Popsicles

5 stars (5 ratings)

These Green Tropical Smoothie Popsicles are an amazing frozen summer treat for toddlers and kids that are filled with a (not-so) hidden-veggie – spinach!

Get the recipe

Easy Cantaloupe Popsicles – 2 Ways!

5 stars (3 ratings)

Made with only 4-ingredients, these Cantaloupe Popsicles will keep uou cool all summer long!

Get the recipe

Watermelon Popsicles

5 stars (3 ratings)

Made with only 4-ingredients, these Watermelon Popsicles are an amazing frozen summer treat for all ages – babies, toddlers, kids and even you!

Get the recipe

7 Healthy Popsicles for Baby + Toddler

5 stars (18 ratings)

These popsicles are made with fruits & veggies(!!) and are so healthy you can feel great about serving them for any meal of the day – breakfast, snacks, lunch and even dinner!

Get the recipe

Yogurt Fruit Popsicles (super easy!)

5 stars (5 ratings)

These Yogurt Fruit Popsicles are the perfect healthy treat for baby, toddler and kids this summer! They are easy to make with only 3-ingredients and with a prep time of less than 5 minutes. PLUS.. there are 8 easy fruit flavors you have to try!

Get the recipe

Healthy Yogurt Parfait Popsicles for Toddler + Kids

5 stars (3 ratings)

These Healthy Yogurt Parafait Popsicles for Toddler + Kids are the perfect breakfast on a hot summer day! These popsicles are naturally sweetened and filled with protein, probiotics, healthy whole-grains, antioxidants and fiber.

Get the recipe

Healthy Funfetti Popsicles

5 stars (4 ratings)

These Healthy Funfetti Popsicles for Kids + Toddlers are a perfect frozen treat on a hot summer day.

Get the recipe

Rainbow Popsicle for Toddlers + Kids

5 stars (2 ratings)

These rainbow popsicles are the perfect summertime treat for your toddlers and kids. This healthy frozen treat is loaded with fresh fruits and made with no added sugar. These colorful ice pops are quick and easy to make with only two ingredients!

Get the recipe

Hidden-Veggie Carrot & Orange Popsicles

5 stars (5 ratings)

These naturally sweetened frozen treats are a fun and tasty way to serve a fruit and veggie to your toddler. Great for snack time or dessert.

Get the recipe

Sweet Beet Popsicles (plus, 5 fun flavors to try!)

5 stars (1 rating)

These 3-ingredient Sweet Beet Popsicles are a baby, toddler and kid favorite and are going to be a staple in your house this summer!  Delicious, refreshing and creamy, these frozen treats go beyond just a tasty pop, they are also full of veggies, fruit and protein. Plus – there are 5 fun flavors to try!

Get the recipe

The post Best Kid-Friendly Popsicle Molds 2023 appeared first on Baby Foode.

Frozen bananas are perfect for smoothies, banana bread, banana ‘nice cream’ and more! We’ll show you the best way to freeze bananas, plus some great ways to use up your frozen banana stash.

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Frozen Bananas

We’ve all been there. Staring at that bunch of bananas sitting on your kitchen counter, turning more speckly, brown, and softer by the minute. Last week your toddler swore bananas were his favorite fruit and ate 3 of them in one day, but this week? You’ve got too many bananas on your hands and you need to use them up, fast!

If you don’t have the time or feel like using up your ripe bananas immediately, freezing them is the perfect option for making the most of this nutritious and versatile fruit. Freezing bananas is an incredibly easy way to reduce food waste and build up a freezer stash for use in a variety of recipes.

Benefits of Freezing Bananas

• reduces food waste
• budget-friendly
• perfect for use in baked goods
• allows you to stock up for recipes like smoothies, milkshakes, and ice cream
• can freeze both larger and smaller amounts at a time, based on your needs
• a versatile way to use this nutritious fruit

How to Freeze Whole or Half Bananas

1. Peel the bananas.
2. If wanting frozen half bananas, cut them in half.
3. Add to a freezer-safe bag or stasher bag. Lay the bag on the counter.
4. Starting a the bottom of the bag and working towards the zip-lock closer, gently press out all of the air.
5. Close the bag and then place it in the freezer to freeze.

How to Freeze Sliced Bananas

1. Peel the bananas.
2. Place them on a cutting board. Using a knife, cut them in half.
3. Then cut each half into 4 more slices. I like to cut mine into 8 even slices so I know how many slices makeup one banana.
4. Add to a freezer-safe bag or stasher bag. Lay the bag on the counter.
5. Starting at the bottom of the bag and working towards the zip-lock closer, gently press out all the air.
6. Close the bag and then place it in the freezer to freeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Thaw Frozen Bananas

The amount of time to thaw frozen bananas will vary depending on the size of the banana pieces. Place the frozen bananas, whole, slices, or chunks, in the fridge to thaw overnight. If you are in a hurry and need to use your bananas immediately, you can also thaw them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, depending on their size.

How to Use Frozen Bananas

Once you’ve got a stash of frozen bananas in your freezer, the creativity truly begins! There are many recipes that frozen bananas work well in, including:

• baked goods
• pancakes
• smoothies
• banana ‘nice cream’
• stirred into oatmeal
• banana pudding
• milkshakes
• banana milk
• banana yogurt
• banana popsicles

Print

How to Freeze Bananas

Frozen bananas are perfect for smoothies, banana bread, banana 'nice cream' and more! We'll show you the best way to freeze bananas, plus some great ways to use up your frozen banana stash.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freeze Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 4 frozen bananas

Author Michele Olivier

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 freezer safe zip-lock baggie or stasher bag

Instructions

• Peel the bananas.
  
• Place them on a cutting board.
  
• Using a knife, cut them in half.
  
• Then cut each half into 4 more slices. I like to cut mine into 8 even slices so I know how many slices makeup one banana.
  
• Add to a freezer-safe bag or stasher bag.
  
• Lay the bag on the counter. Starting at the bottom of the bag and working towards the zip-lock closer, gently press out all the air.
  
• Close the bag and then place it in the freezer to freeze.
  

The post How to Freeze Bananas appeared first on Baby Foode.

Flavorful and easy to take on the go, these homemade baby food pouches are a convenient way to serve healthy fruits, veggies, and whole grains to your baby or toddler. Great for ages 6+ months!

Medically reviewed and co-written by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Easy Baby Food Pouches

What’s all the hype about homemade baby food?

Well, to be completely honest, we’d say it’s all hype worth hearing about. Making your own homemade baby food pouches is an easy, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to serve your baby healthy food. You can even introduce your baby to meals that you’re making for the rest of the family, just by pureeing it and serving them in a reusable pouch.

By making your own baby food pouches, you get to be in charge of the ingredients that go into your baby’s mouth. You get the choice to avoid added preservatives, extra sodium, or sugar, and best of all, you know that your baby’s food hasn’t been sitting on a shelf for a year or more!

In this guide, you will find out how to make the best baby food pouches, FAQs, feeding tips, and so much more! I have been recipe-testing baby food pouches for over 8 years, and I’ll make sure you get the tools you need to succeed!

First time making homemade baby food? If you answered yes, then I suggest you start this journey by reading my in-depth Guide on How to Make Homemade Baby Food. The detailed article goes over all the essential information such as the best cooking tools to have on hand, safe storage, knowing when your baby is ready for solids, introducing purees, making the best first foods for baby, and more! You can also check out my best-selling cookbook for even more information and recipes.

Reasons to Love DIY Baby Food Pouches

• Saves you money
• Full of fruits, veggies, and whole grains
• Easy to prepare
• Environmentally friendly
• Perfect for traveling or on-the-go snacking
• Customizable
• Great way to introduce your little one to a variety of flavors

Favorite Reusable Baby Food Pouches

Reusable baby food pouches are a must-have item if you make your own baby food or simply want an easy and mess-free way to feed your baby or toddler on the go. Check out this guide for 6 of our favorite reusable baby food pouches for more information on all of our favorites.

• Hippypotamus Resuable Baby Food Pouches – These stylish reusable food pouches are great for your baby and toddler and feature a transparent window for a clear view of the contents, BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalate free, and are dishwasher and freezer safe!
• WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouches – These WeeSprout food pouches have a dual-zipper design that prevents leaks and rounded edges that are easy to clean. Each set includes 6 reusable food pouches that hold 5 ounces of food each, great for older babies and toddlers. Freezer and dishwasher safe.
• Squeasy Silicone Reusable Food Pouch – This food pouch holds 8 of 16 ounces and stands on its own! A 2-in-1 removable, no-spill lid insert prevents spills or leaks from the top. All parts are dishwasher safe, plus the silicone body is also flexible enough to flip inside out so you can reach inside the bottom and handwash as needed.

Homemade vs. Storebought

Homemade baby food is a great alternative to store-bought baby food. Although store-bought baby food will work in a pinch (check out this post for high-quality organic baby food pouches), when you make your own food it’s:

• Budget-friendly – you can make several servings in one batch.
• No unwanted ingredients – like preservatives, added sodium or salt, etc.
• Super flavorful – you can introduce baby to foods that you won’t traditionally find in baby food purees, like kiwi, cantaloupe, purple sweet potato or coconut cream!
• Eco-friendly – with homemade baby food, you can reuse your pouches over and over again.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make your puree and let it cool.
2. Make sure the lid of the pouch is securely fastened. Fill the pouch, either by pouring in the puree through the opening on the bottom or placing it in by small spoonfuls. Make sure to stop at, or just below, the max fill line.
3. Gently close the pouch and wipe up any excess puree that got on the pouch.
4. Serve to baby, or store in the fridge or freezer.

Expert Recipe Tips

I have made thousands of ounces of baby food and made hundreds of baby food pouches; here are my tips for getting the perfect reusable pouches.

• Puree Consistency – you will want the puree to be the thickness of regular yogurt (not Greek). Too thin, the puree tends to run out of the zip lock (and all over your fridge or diaper bag). If it’s too thick, it’s hard to get the puree into the pouch. If your puree is too thin, add some Greek yogurt or thicker puree to make it a thicker consistency. If your puree is too thick, add a little more liquid and keep blending until you have the right consistency.
• Cool Down the Puree – you do not want to put warm or hot puree into the reusable baby food pouches. Make sure the puree has cooled to the touch before pouring it into the pouch.
• Max or Fill Line – the line is there for a reason; use it! In fact, I like to fill the pouches just below the fill line just to make sure the puree doesn’t go everywhere when closing the ziplock.
• Lid on Pouch – make sure to have the pouch lid securely fastened to the pouch before you start filling the puree.

Equipment Needed

• Reusable Pouches
• Blender

Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Pouches: – Homemade pouches will typically be more nutritious than store-bought since store-bought pouches may have added sugar, sodium, and unwanted additives to extend the shelf life of the pouch. Not to mention homemade pouches probably have a higher nutrient profile since you are likely using fresher ingredients.

Ingredients for Pouches

There are so many great combinations that you can put in baby food pouches. And beyond the baby years, reusable pouches are also great for serving foods like smoothies or yogurt for toddlers and big kids.

• Pureed Fruits
• Pureed Vegetables
• Combination Purees
• Meat Purees
• Pureed legumes
• Smoothies
• Applesauce
• Yogurt

Frequently Asked Questions

Favorite Recipes

With this list of favorite puree recipes, you’ll never run out of a variety of foods for your baby or toddler. From simple and savory butternut squash to unique combos of banana, beet, and cherries, there’s a plethora of healthy, delicious ideas.

Baby

• Apple Puree with Yogurt
• Carrot Puree with Rice Cereal
• Broccoli Puree
• Sweet Potato & Carrot Puree
• Banana Yogurt
• Blueberry, Banana & Avocado Puree
• Butternut Squash Puree
• Pea Puree
• Peach Banana Puree
• Mango Puree

Toddler

• Strawberry Applesauce
• Carrot Applesauce
• Mango Yogurt
• Blueberry Yogurt
• Green Toddler Smoothie
• Banana, Beet & Cherries
• Pear, Prune & Clove Puree (i.e. Constipation Puree)

How to Store Baby Food Pouches

To Store or Freeze

You can store the pouches in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months. We recommend placing the pouches in a small reusable Tupperware before placing them in the fridge or freezer, just in case there is any leakage.

To Thaw

To thaw frozen pouches, simply place the pouches in the fridge and let them thaw overnight. For a cool toddler treat, you can pack the pouches straight out of the fridge in their lunch box or snack bag and by lunchtime, they will be a soft frozen consistency.

Reader Favorites

Homemade Strawberry Applesauce (Extra Easy!)

5 stars (3 ratings)

This Homemade Strawberry Applesauce is made with lots of strawberries (2 heaping cups), apples, a drizzle of vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. No added sugar! It’s very easy to make stovetop, and is full of bold fruit flavor.

Get the recipe

The Best Strawberry Yogurt (3-Ingredients)

5 stars (1 rating)

Nourishing, kid-friendly Strawberry Yogurt coming right up! Add a little flavor to plain yogurt by making this easy and healthy Strawberry Yogurt. Great for breakfast, snack, simple dessert or packed into a school lunch. For ages 6+ months.

Get the recipe

Apple, Carrot + Sweet Potato Baby Food Puree

4.87 stars (30 ratings)

This vibrant puree has a fun yet complex sweet and savory taste profile and I would for sure add in a pinch of mild curry powder or chopped fresh thyme to play up the exotic flavor that is happening.

Get the recipe

Spinach Apple Baby Puree (Stage Two)

4.74 stars (42 ratings)

This Spinach Apple Baby Puree is high in iron and a perfect food to introduce to baby around 6 months. With the addition of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, this stage two combination puree tastes amazing!

Get the recipe

Sweet Potato, Beets + White Beans Baby Food Puree

5 stars (5 ratings)

An easy 3-ingredient baby food that is loaded with protein, fiber, manganese, calcium, iron and vitamin A and C.

Get the recipe

Broccoli Baby Food

4.83 stars (80 ratings)

This Broccoli Baby Food with olive oil recipe is a great way to introduce healthy green vegetables into your baby's diet. A delicious puree full of essential vitamins and healthy fats for growing baby

Get the recipe

Butternut Squash, Cherries and Flax Seeds Baby Puree

5 stars (6 ratings)

This homemade Stage 2 puree comes together in just minutes, is packed with vitamins, and is the perfect healthy recipe for babies aged 6 months and up.

Get the recipe

Superpower Green Baby Food Puree

4.47 stars (15 ratings)

Broccoli and spinach can be a strong flavor for baby, but when paired with creamy and mild avocado, this green puree becomes an instant hit.

Get the recipe

Print

Homemade Baby Food Pouches (15 minutes)

Flavorful and easy to take on the go, these homemade baby food pouches are a convenient way to serve healthy fruits, veggies, and whole grains to your baby or toddler. Great for ages 6+ months!

Course baby food

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4 pouches

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Reusable Pouches
• Silicone Baby Bibs

Ingredients

Strawberry Apple

• 4 medium apples peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, hulled, fresh or thawed from frozen
• 1/4 cup water
• pinch cinnamon

Sweet Potato Carrot

• 2 medium sweet potato peeled and roughly chopped
• 2 large carrots peeled and roughly chopped
• pinch cumin

Spinach Broccoli

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup baby spinach, packed

Instructions

Strawberry Apple

• In a medium saucepan, place the apples, water, and cinnamon. Cover and heat on medium-low for 10 minutes. Add in the strawberries and cook for another 5 minutes or until the apples are tender. Let cool slightly.

  Transfer all ingredients to a blender or food processor and puree on high for 1-2 minutes.

Sweet Potato Carrot

• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. In a steamer basket, add in the carrots and sweet potato, place the basket over boiling water, and cover. Steam for 10-12 minutes or until all ingredients are tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Reserve steamer water.

  Transfer all ingredients to a blender or food processor and puree on high for 1-2 minutes. Add the reserved steamer water, fresh breast milk, or formula in 1/4 cup increments to get the puree to the right consistency.

Spinach Broccoli

• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. In a steamer basket, add the broccoli, place the basket over boiling water, and cover. Steam for 7 minutes. Add the spinach on top of the broccoli, cover, and steam for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Reserve steamer water.

  Transfer all ingredients to a blender or food processor and puree on high for 1-2 minutes. Add the reserved steamer water, fresh breast milk, or formula in 1/4 cup increments, to get the puree to the right consistency.

To Make Baby Food Pouches

• Fill the pouch, by pouring the puree through the opening on the bottom or placing it in small spoonfuls.
  
• Make sure to stop at, or just below, the max fill line.
  
• Gently close the pouch and wipe up any excess puree that got on the pouch. Serve to baby, or store in the fridge or freezer.
  

Notes

Ages: 6+ months

Yield: 4-6 pouches, depending on size. 

Pouch Storage: Fridge – store in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freezer – can be frozen for up to 4 months.

The post Homemade Baby Food Pouches appeared first on Baby Foode.

Freezing milk is an easy and useful way to make the most of sales at the grocery store. We’ll share how to freeze and thaw milk, as well as some creative uses for frozen milk.

Frozen Milk

For every household that goes through 3 gallons of milk a week, there’s other households that struggle to use up all their milk before its expiration date. No matter which camp you’re in, you might be wondering, can I actually freeze milk? The good news is, that yes, you can definitely freeze milk.

However, you will want to consider the type of milk you want to freeze. Most milks separate when frozen, but some plant-based milks, such as almond and oat milks will become especially grainy in texture. In this post, we’ll discuss freezing dairy milk, since it is commonly used.

Freezing milk is a very resourceful way to the make the most of your groceries. It helps reduce waste, allows you to stock up for emergencies, and is easy to freeze in small amounts for baked goods, cooking, and blended drinks.

Benefits of Freezing Milk

• Budget-friendly
• Allows you to stock up for emergencies
• Reduces waste
• Easy to freeze small amounts to use in baked goods, for cooking, and in smoothies

Gallon or Half Gallon Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pour off a little milk so that you have about 2 inches or so of room at the top of the jug. Not doing so may cause the container to break as the milk freezes and expands.
2. Write the date on the container so you know when the milk was placed in the freezer.
3. Place the milk in the freezer standing upright.
4. To defrost and use the milk again, place it in the fridge for 24-36 hours to thaw.

Small Portions Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill each compartment of an ice cube tray or muffin tin until about 3/4 of the way full. This gives the milk room to expand.
2. Put the ice cube tray in the freezer for 3-4 hours.
3. Once frozen, remove the milk from the tray and place into an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Thaw the small portions of milk in the fridge or use them directly from the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Thaw Frozen Milk

Once you want to defrost and use the milk again, place it in the fridge for 24-36 hours to thaw. Do not thaw milk at room temperature, as this puts it at risk for developing bacteria. You’ll want to give the milk a good shake or run it through a blender to restore its texture and consistency.

Uses for Frozen Milk

Once the milk is thawed, it likely won’t be the same consistency it was before. But never fear! Frozen (and thawed) milk is a useful, budget-friendly hack that you can use in many recipes, including these:

• Smoothies
• Pancakes
• Baked goods
• Cream-based sauces or curries
• Homemade hot chocolate
• Milkshakes

Print

How to Freeze Milk (super easy!)

Freezing milk is an easy and useful way to make the most of sales at the grocery store. We'll share how to freeze and thaw milk, as well as some creative uses for frozen milk.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freeze Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 gallon

Author Michele Olivier

Ingredients

• 1/2 gallon milk

Instructions

• Fill each compartment of an ice cube tray or muffin tin until about 3/4 of the way full. This gives the milk room to expand.
  
• Cover and place the freezer tray in the freezer for 4 hours. I found it helps to place the freezer tray on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
  
• Once frozen, remove the milk from the tray and place it into an airtight container or freezer bag.
  
• Thaw the small portions of milk in the fridge or use them directly in a smoothie.
  

Notes

How to Freeze a Half Gallon:

1. Pour off a little milk so that you have about 2 inches or so of room at the top of the jug. Not doing so may cause the container to break as the milk freezes and expands.
2. Write the date on the container so you know when the milk was placed in the freezer.
3. Place the milk in the freezer standing upright.
4. To defrost and use the milk again, place it in the fridge for 24-36 hours to thaw.

The post How to Freeze Milk appeared first on Baby Foode.

They’re convenient, environmentally friendly, and economical. Reusable baby food pouches are a must-have item if you make your own baby food or simply want an easy and mess-free way to feed your baby or toddler on the go. Here are 6 of our favorite reusable baby food pouches.

Medically reviewed and co-written by Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Best Reusable Baby Food Pouches

When you’ve gone to the effort of making your own nutritious and yummy baby food, it’s only reasonable you’d want to be able to feed your baby anywhere, right? That’s why we love these reusable baby food pouches that make it easy to feed your baby on the go.

However, not all pouches seem to be created equally. You don’t want pouches that leak, are hard to fill, or hard to clean. That’s why we’ve chosen our 6 best picks for reusable baby food pouches. These pouches are great for baby food, as well as for smoothies, yogurt, or applesauce for toddlers.

In this guide, we will go over the benefits of reusable baby food pouches, FAQs, share expert tips as well as go over our favorite 6 baby food pouches.

Plastic vs. Silicone

Choosing plastic versus silicone reusable food pouches is really a personal choice. Many food pouches made with plastics are BPA, PVC, and phthalate free. Plastic food pouches are typically a little more budget-friendly and will lay and store flatter than silicone ones.

Silicone food pouches are also often BPA, PVC, and Phthalate-Free. They will cost a little more upfront than plastic ones, but are highly durable and long-lasting.

How to Clean Pouches

For the most thorough clean, handwashing reusable baby food pouches is typically your best bet. Use warm soapy water and a bottle brush to scrub them thoroughly. Rinse and place the pouches on a drying rack to air dry. Most pouches are also top-rack dishwasher safe.

Favorite Recipes

Here are some delicious homemade baby food pouch recipes to help fill your reusable pouches!

Baby

• Apple Puree with Yogurt
• Carrot Puree with Rice Cereal
• Broccoli Puree
• Sweet Potato & Carrot Puree
• Banana Yogurt
• Blueberry, Banana & Avocado Puree
• Butternut Squash Puree
• Pea Puree
• Peach Banana Puree
• Mango Puree

Toddler

• Strawberry Applesauce
• Carrot Applesauce
• Mango Yogurt
• Blueberry Yogurt
• Green Toddler Smoothie
• Banana, Beet & Cherries
• Pear, Prune & Clove Puree (i.e. Constipation Puree)

6 Favorite Reusable Baby Food Pouches

These reusable food pouches are great options for busy families on the go who want to eat healthy.  

• Hippypotamus Reusable Baby Food Pouches
• WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouches
• SQUOOSHI Reusable Baby Food Pouches
• Simple Modern Reusable Baby Food Pouches
• Squeasy Silicone Reusable Food Pouch

Hippypotamus Reusable Baby Food Pouches

These stylish reusable food pouches are great for baby and toddler and feature a transparent window for a clear view of the contents, BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalate free, and are dishwasher and freezer safe!

Hippypotamus Reusable Baby Food Pouches

Walmart

WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouches

These WeeSprout food pouches have a dual-zipper design that prevents leaks and rounded edges that are easy to clean. Each set includes 6 reusable food pouches that hold 5 ounces of food each, great for older babies and toddlers. Freezer and dishwasher safe.

WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouches

Amazon

Walmart

SQUOOSHI Reusable Baby Food Pouches

This cute set of 6 reusable baby food pouches holds 5 ounces of food each. The curved design without corners or cracks prevents food from getting stuck, and the wide zipper allows for easy access to fill and clean. Dishwasher safe.

SQUOOSHI Reusable Baby Food Pouches

Amazon

Walmart

Simple Modern Reusable Baby Food Pouches

This set comes with 10 reusable pouches that each hold 5 ounces of food, which are great for older toddlers. They’re easy to fill and seal with the leakproof zip on the bottom. And they’re dishwasher and freezer safe.

Simple Modern Reusable Baby Food Pouches

Amazon

Target

Squeasy Silicone Reusable Food Pouch

This food pouch holds 16 ounces and stands on its own! A 2-in-1 removable, no-spill lid insert prevents spills or leaks from the top. All parts are dishwasher safe, plus the silicone body is also flexible enough to flip inside out so you can reach inside the bottom and handwash as needed.

Squeasy Silicone Reusable Food Pouch

Amazon

haakaa Reusable Baby Food Pouch

This 2-pack reusable set holds 4.4 ounces each of food. The half-transparent design allows you to see inside for thorough cleaning and an attached cap won’t get lost or accidently tossed. These pouches are freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.

haakaa Reusable Baby Food Pouch

Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

The post 6 Best Reusable Baby Food Pouches 2023 appeared first on Baby Foode.

Making your own homemade flavored milk will feel like a treat – and they’re healthier than store-bought versions. With just 4 simple ingredients and a couple of minutes, you’ll have flavorful milk to enjoy with breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack.

Medically reviewed and co-written by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Easy Flavored Milks

Flavored milks are a great way to add a little boost of nutrients and flavor to traditional milk. They’re incredibly easy to make, use ingredients that you likely already have on hand in your kitchen, and are naturally sweetened. Plus, flavored milks can be a great way to help kids learn to like milk, if they typically haven’t been a fan of regular milk.

Feel free to make up a big batch and you’ll find yourself enjoying these delicious homemade flavored milks all week long. They’re a perfect addition to breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even for a quick snack.

Reasons to Love These Homemade Flavored Milks

• Easy to make – less than 3 minutes each
• Good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D
• Fun flavors are a great way to get kids to drink more milk
• Naturally sweetened
• Perfect for a quick snack or as part of lunch or dinner
• Can be made ahead of time
• Great beginner recipe for kids to help in the kitchen

Ingredients Needed

• Milk: use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.
• Bananas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Cocoa Powder, or Mango, depending on the recipe you choose.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: can be adjusted to your liking; you can also use agave nectar.
• Vanilla Extract: use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Health Benefits of Flavored Milks: Milk by itself is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, fats for brain development (if choosing a fuller fat version), and can be a good source of vitamin D if it has been added. Depending on what you choose to flavor your milk, you could get a boost of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Instructions for Strawberry Milk

Creamy, fruity, and healthier than store-bought versions, this strawberry milk is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamins C and D and fiber.

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Pour and serve.

The Best Strawberry Milk (3 minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Want a healthy version of the classic Strawberry Milk? Then this homemade recipe is for you! Made with just 4 simple ingredients and in less than 5-minutes!

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Instructions for Chocolate Milk

Made with simple ingredients, like cocoa powder and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, homemade chocolate milk is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants.

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 30 seconds or until smooth. Pour and serve.

The Best Chocolate Milk (5 Minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

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Instructions for Vanilla Milk

A simple and creamy combination of just 3 ingredients, this vanilla milk also works great for adults as a coffee creamer.

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender or large jar with a lid. Puree or shake until all ingredients are incorporated. Pour, serve, and enjoy!

The Best Homemade Vanilla Milk (2 Minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Who would have thought something so simple could taste so good? We're talking about homemade vanilla milk, and I'll bet you have all 3 ingredients in your kitchen right now! This milk is made in 2 minutes and is a great addition to any toddler or kid's breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Get the recipe

Blueberry Milk

Kids and parents will both love this easy, healthy blueberry milk recipe. Plus you can use fresh or frozen blueberries for this recipe

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Pour and serve.

The Best Homemade Blueberry Milk (3 minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Kids and parents will both love this easy, healthy blueberry milk recipe. It's a great source of nutrients and a perfect addition to breakfast or for an after-school snack.

Get the recipe

Banana Milk

Banana milk is a great source of protein, calcium, and potassium. It’s delicious on its own or with a dash of cinnamon or powdered peanut butter mixed in.

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Pour and serve.

The Best Banana Milk (3 Minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Need a fun and refreshing twist on regular milk? This homemade banana milk is quick to make and a great source of protein, calcium and potassium. Great for toddlers, kids, and adults alike!

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Mango Milk

For a fun, tropical twist on flavored milks! This mango milk is a great source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A and D.

How to Make

Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Pour and serve.

The Best Homemade Mango Milk (3 Minutes)

5 stars (1 rating)

Need a fruity and refreshing twist on regular milk? This mango milk is quick to make and a great source of protein and calcium. Plus, it can be made with fresh or frozen mangoes. Great for toddlers, kids and even adults!

Get the recipe

How to Store

Store flavored milk in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake or stir to re-mix any settling that may have occurred before serving.

What Type of Milk to Use

The best milk for toddlers 1-2 years old is whole cow’s milk, assuming they do not have an allergy or intolerance. However, you can also use plant-based milk, such as coconut, almond, soy, hemp, or oat milk. Regardless of the plant-based milk, choose one that has no added sugar and has been fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

Add-Ins

While these flavored milks are delicious, you can add a few other ingredients to create your own unique flavored milk! Here are some options to try:

• pinch of cinnamon
• drizzle of peanut butter
• a teaspoon of hemp seeds
• pinch of cloves
• a teaspoon of cocoa powder
• half of a banana
• small handful of spinach

Print

The Best Homemade Flavored Milk (3 Minutes)

Making your own homemade flavored milk will feel like a treat – and they're healthier than store-bought versions. With just 4 simple ingredients and a couple of minutes, you’ll have flavorful milk to enjoy with breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 3 minutes

Total Time 3 minutes

Servings 2 servings

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Measuring Cups
• Kids Glass Cups

Ingredients

Chocolate Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 2 tsp cocoa powder
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Strawberry Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup strawberries, thawed from frozen with juices, or fresh
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Vanilla Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Banana Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 2 medium ripe bananas
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Blueberry Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup blueberries thawed from frozen with juices, or fresh
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Mango Milk

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup mango,, thawed from frozen with juices, or fresh
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

For all Flavored Milks

• Prep: add all ingredients into a blender.
  
• Blend: on medium-high speed, blend for 60-90 seconds or until the blueberry milk is completely smooth.
  
• Enjoy: Pour into a glass and serve!
  

Notes

Age: 1+ years

Milk Notes: you can use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.

Note on Fruit: frozen fruit that has been thawed along with its natural juices will provide a more intense fruit flavor. Fresh fruit will work, but depending on the ripeness and season, they will taste lighter and fresher.

 

The post Homemade Flavored Milks appeared first on Baby Foode.

Need a fruity and refreshing twist on regular milk? This mango milk is quick to make and a great source of protein and calcium. Plus, it can be made with fresh or frozen mangoes. Great for toddlers, kids, and even adults!

Medically reviewed and co-written by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Homemade Mango Milk

Regular milk, chocolate milk…sometimes you need to mix it up. Both figuratively and literally.

This mango milk will do just that. 🥭

It’s a fun spin on regular milk, similar to a fruit smoothie made with mangoes, but lighter. And just as flavorful!

We love that this mango milk works equally as well with frozen versus fresh mangoes, so no need to worry if this fruit isn’t in season where you live. Mango milk is naturally sweetened, simple to make, and a great source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A and D.

Reasons to Love This Homemade Mango Milk

• So simple to make – 3 minutes
• Good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D
• Naturally sweetened
• Perfect for a quick snack or as part of lunch or dinner
• Can be made ahead of time
• Great beginner recipe for kids to help in the kitchen

Ingredients Needed

• Milk: use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.
• Mango: thawed from frozen mango works best, but fresh also works in this recipe.
• Maple Syrup: for natural sweetness, but you can also use honey or agave nectar.
• Vanilla Extract: use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. You can also use a pinch of cloves, nutmeg or cinnamon.

Health Benefits of Banana Milk: Milk by itself is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, fats for brain development (is using a fuller fat version), and can be a good source of vitamin D if it has been added. Add some mango, and you have a good dose of fiber, vitamin A, folate, and antioxidants.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add Ingredients: to a blender, add the milk, mango, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend: on medium-high speed, blend for 60-90 seconds or until the mango milk is completely smooth.
3. Enjoy: Pour into a glass and serve!

How to Store

Store mango milk in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake or stir to re-mix any settling that may have occurred before serving.

What Type of Milk to Use

The best milk for toddlers 1-2 years old is whole cow’s milk, assuming they do not have an allergy or intolerance. However, you can also use plant-based milk, such as coconut, almond, soy, hemp, or oat milk. Regardless of the plant-based milk, choose one that has no added sugar and has been fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

Cooking with Kids

You can easily have your kids help you make this flavored milk.

Toddlers

• Toddlers can help measure and pour the ingredients into the blender.
• They can help put the lid on the blender and push start. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour their milk into their cup. 

Kids

• You can pretty much let older kids make this recipe by themselves. 
• They can pick out and measure all of the ingredients. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour the mango milk into their own cup as well as a second cup for you!

More Add-Ins

While we love this Mango Milk as-is, feel free to add any of these delicious add-ins to your flavored milk.

• handful of strawberries
• pinch of cinnamon or cloves
• drizzle of peanut butter
• tablespoon of coconut flakes
• pinch of hemp seeds
• half of a banana

Print

The Best Homemade Mango Milk (3 Minutes)

Need a fruity and refreshing twist on regular milk? This mango milk is quick to make and a great source of protein and calcium. Plus, it can be made with fresh or frozen mangoes. Great for toddlers, kids and even adults!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 3 minutes

Total Time 3 minutes

Servings 2 servings

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Measuring Cups
• Kids Glass Cups

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk, regular or any plant-based milk
• 1 cup fresh or frozen, thawed if using frozen with juices
• 3 tbsp maple syrup, honey or agave nectar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon or vanilla extract

Instructions

• Prep: to a blender, add the milk, banana, sweetener and vanilla.
  
• Blend: On medium speed, blend for 45-60 seconds or until the banana milk is smooth and creamy.
  
• Serve and enjoy!
  

Notes

Age: 1+ years

Milk Notes: you can use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.

Note on Mangos: thawed from frozen mangos along with their natural juices will provide a more intense mango flavor. Fresh mangos will work, but depending on the ripeness and season, they will taste lighter and fresher.

The post Easy Mango Milk appeared first on Baby Foode.

Who would have thought something so simple could taste so good? We’re talking about homemade vanilla milk, and I’ll bet you have all 3 ingredients in your kitchen right now! This milk is made in 2 minutes and is a great addition to any toddler or kid’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Easy Vanilla Milk

If you’re anything like me, you may have heard about vanilla milk and thought, really? What’s all the fuss about? Isn’t it a lot like regular milk?

Well, my friend, I’m here to tell you that this stuff feels a little magical. I can’t put my finger on it, but something about this little combination of vanilla extract and maple syrup mixed into milk really feels like a treat. You might never want to drink regular milk again.

Make up a big batch and you’ll find yourself enjoying this delicious homemade vanilla milk all week long. It’s a perfect addition to lunch, dinner, or even for a quick snack.

Feeding kids can be tricky! But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here you can find 40 Family Dinner Ideas, over 100 Kid Snack Ideas, great Hidden-Veggie Recipes, 50 Cooking with Kids Recipes, and so much more! And for even more family-friendly recipes, check out my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love This Homemade Vanilla Milk

• Easy peasy – just 3 ingredients!
• Good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D
• Less sugar than store-bought brands
• Perfect for a quick snack or as part of lunch or dinner
• Can be made ahead of time
• Great beginner recipe for kids to help in the kitchen

Ingredients Needed

• Milk: use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.
• Maple Syrup: for a little sweetness, you can also use honey, agave nectar or pitted dates.
• Vanilla Extract: use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Health Benefits of Vanilla Milk: Milk is full of nutrients needed for growing girls and boys, including calcium for strong bones, protein for growing muscles, carbohydrates for energy, and fats for brain development.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a mason jar or jar with a lid. Give a good shake for about 30 seconds to mix it up. You can also use a blender.
2. Serve and enjoy!  

How to Store

Homemade vanilla milk should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake or quick stir before serving.

What Type of Milk to Use

The best milk for toddlers 1-2 years old is whole cow’s milk, assuming they do not have an allergy or intolerance. However, you can also use plant-based milk, such as coconut, almond, soy, hemp, or oat milk. Regardless of the plant-based milk, choose one that has no added sugar and has been fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

Cooking with Kids

You can easily have your kids help you make this flavored milk.

TODDLERS

• Toddlers can help measure and pour the ingredients into the cup.
• They can help put the lid on and then shake until all of the ingredients are well incorporated. Note: if using a blender, make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour their milk into their cup. 

KIDS

• You can pretty much let older kids make this recipe by themselves. 
• They can pick out and measure all of the ingredients. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour the vanilla milk into their own cup as well as a second cup for you!

Print

The Best Homemade Vanilla Milk (2 Minutes)

Who would have thought something so simple could taste so good? We're talking about homemade vanilla milk, and I'll bet you have all 3 ingredients in your kitchen right now! This milk is made in 2 minutes and is a great addition to any toddler or kid's breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 2 minutes

Total Time 2 minutes

Servings 2 servings

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Kids Glass Cups
• Measuring Cups

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup, honey or agave nectar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Add all ingredients into a large cup with a lid or a blender.
  
• Shake or blend for 30 seconds or until all ingredients are incorporated.
  
• Pour into a glass and serve!

Notes

Age: 1+ years

Milk Notes: you can use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.

Add-ins: feel free to add in a pinch of cinnamon, drizzle of peanut butter, a few strawberries or chopped bananas or a pinch of nutmeg. 

The post Homemade Vanilla Milk appeared first on Baby Foode.

So simple, healthy, and yummy – these DIY Pizza Lunchables are a lifesaver when you need a quick lunch for your kid! Pizza Lunchables pack well for school lunches, road trips, and busy days on the go!

Homemade Pizza Lunchables

Every seasoned parent has been there at least once in their life – standing in front of the Lunchables section at the grocery store, with a kid begging for one of these items in their lunch box the next day. And as a parent, you’ve probably considered it (and also probably caved a few times and bought one – it’s me! Hi! I’m the problem, it’s me.)

But as a savvy shopper like myself, you’ve also probably thought – can’t I just make this same thing at home, for much cheaper…and healthier…and much better tasting? And the answer is yes, 1000% YOU CAN.

These DIY pizza Lunchables are super easy to put together, customizable with your favorite toppings, and healthier and lower in sodium than store-bought pizza Lunchables. And with the amount of food you can put into a DIY pizza Lunchable, and still have plenty of leftovers for the week and beyond, your wallet will be much happier as well!

Feeding kids can be tricky! But, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here you can find 40 Family Dinner Ideas, over 100 Kid Snack Ideas, great Hidden-Veggie Recipes, 30 School Lunch Box Ideas, and so much more! And for even more family-friendly recipes, check out my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love Pizza Lunchables

• toddler and kid favorite
• easy to make
• can be customized with favorite toppings
• great for school or packed lunches
• healthy
• can be made gluten and dairy-free

Ingredients

• Pizzas: lots of options here! You can use pita bread, naan, flatbread, make your own mini pizza base from homemade pizza dough, or even use crackers.
• Pizza Sauce: use homemade or store-bought (just look for lower sugar options)
• Mozzarella: you can shred your own or use pre-shredded mozzarella from the store. I used pre-shredded cheese. You can also use an Italian cheese blend.
• Toppings: you can use any topping you prefer. See below for lots of fun options and combinations.

Health Benefits of Pizza Lunchables: Just because it’s pizza, doesn’t mean it’s not healthy! The Lunchable crust/base provides carbohydrates, an important macronutrient needed for energy. Pizza sauce is full of nutrients like vitamins A and C and potassium, and the cheese provides the calcium needed for healthy bones. Depending on what toppings you choose, you can boost the health factor even more with fiber and other nutrients from vegetables and protein from meats.

Allergy Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: use a trusted brand of gluten-free pita or naan and gluten-free toppings.
• Dairy-Free: vegan cheeses have come a long way in their replication of taste, texture, and behavior so try plant-based mozzarella or parmesan-style shreds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pizza Base: cut your pita bread or naan into smaller circles, shapes or wedges. I like to cut them into sizes about the size of your child’s palms. You want them small enough for them to pick up and eat, but not too small that you can’t get any toppings on them.
2. Sauce: in a smaller leakproof container, add in the sauce.
3. Cheese: in another container, add in the shredded cheese.
4. Toppings: add in any toppings or sides your child prefers to any remaining sections of the lunchbox.
5. Utensils: make sure to pack a fork, spoon or plastic knife, so your child can spread the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pizza Lunchable Variations

Another fabulous thing about making your own pizza Lunchables is that you aren’t limited to the same three toppings over and over again. There are many variations to try that kids will love!

Sauces

• Hidden Veggie Pizza Sauce, Veggie Loaded Pasta Sauce or store-bought
• Spinach Basil Pesto or store-bought
• Barbecue Sauce

Toppings

• Veggies: bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, basil, olives
• Cheese: mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, cheddar, “jack” cheeses, feta
• Meats: pepperoni, ground sausage, chicken, bacon crumbles

What to Pack Lunchables In

Lunchables store best in containers that can keep the ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat, similar to a bento-style lunchbox, like these best lunchboxes for kids.

What to Pack with Pizza Lunchables

So many foods pair well with these pizza Lunchables. Here are several favorites:

• blueberries
• cut strawberries
• carrot sticks
• sliced cucumbers
• half of a banana
• chopped fruit salad
• orange sections
• snap peas
• crunchy roasted chickpeas

How to Serve to Toddlers

It can be helpful to warm the ingredients slightly when serving to toddlers, as it helps everything “stick” together a little better when picking up the pizza. Try cheeses like fresh mozzarella, fresh ricotta, or goat cheese, as they contain less sodium than some traditional cheeses. You might also want to serve ham, sausage, and pepperoni sparingly for toddlers, as these meats can be saltier.

Kids in the Kitchen

Pizza Lunchables are one of the easiest meals for toddlers and kids to help prepare.

Toddlers

• They can help locate ingredients in the pantry or fridge.
• Can help put the ingredients into their lunch box. 
• Toddlers love choices! You can give them two choices of a fruit or veggie to include in the lunchable.

Kids

• Kids can help pick out and organize ingredients for their own Lunchable.
• They can help with cutting the naan or pita bread into strips or small circles (if they are old enough, you could have them try cutting with kitchen scissors – with supervision).
• Can help with scooping sauce into the lunchable container.
• They can help with chopping any veggies or fruits, with supervision.

How to Store

You can store pre-made lunchables in the fridge for up to one week. If packing for lunches or traveling, keep the Lunchables chilled and prepare them just before serving.

Print

DIY Pizza Lunchable (5 Minutes)

So simple, healthy, and yummy – these DIY Pizza Lunchables are a lifesaver when you need a quick lunch for your kid! Pizza Lunchables pack well for school lunches, road trips, and busy days on the go!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Servings 1 lunch box

Author Michele Olivier

Ingredients

• 1 piece soft naan or pita bread, cut into circles, shapes or wedges
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce, homemade or store-bought
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese, Mozzarella or Italian blend
• 1/4 cup pepperoni or other preferred toppings
• sliced fruit, veggies and milk, optional

Instructions

• Cut Crust: If using a large piece of naan or pita, cut into smaller circles, fun shapes, or wedges. You can also use mini naan or pita to save this step.
  
• Add to Lunchbox: Place all ingredients into different sections of a lunch box. Make sure the pizza sauce goes into a leakproof section or small container with a lid.
  
• Pack and Send: Seal the lunch container and then add in a side of sliced fruit and veggies, along with a plastic knife or tool for your child to spread the sauce at lunchtime.
  

Notes

Age: 2+ years

 

 

The post DIY Pizza Lunchables (5 Minutes) appeared first on Baby Foode.

Need a fun and refreshing twist on regular milk? This homemade banana milk is quick to make and a great source of protein, calcium and potassium. Great for toddlers, kids, and adults alike!

Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).

Easy Banana Milk

Regular milk, chocolate milk…sometimes you need to mix it up! Both figuratively and literally.

This banana milk will do just that. 🍌

It’s a fun spin on regular milk, similar to a fruit smoothie made with bananas, but lighter. And just as flavorful!

This banana milk uses just 4 ingredients (which I bet you already have in your kitchen right now!) and is naturally sweetened. Plus, it’s a great source of protein, calcium, potassium and vitamins C and D.

Feeding kids can be tricky! But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here you can find 40 Family Dinner Ideas, over 100 Kid Snack Ideas, great Hidden-Veggie Recipes, 50 Cooking with Kids Recipes, and so much more! And for even more family-friendly recipes, check out my best-selling cookbook Little Foodies: Recipes for Babies and Toddlers with Taste.

Reasons to Love This Homemade Banana Milk

• So simple to make
• Good source of calcium, protein and vitamin D
• Naturally sweetened
• Perfect for a quick snack or as part of lunch or dinner
• Can be made ahead of time
• Great beginner recipe for kids to help in the kitchen

Ingredients Needed

• Milk: use whole milk or any plain unsweetened plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, coconut, etc.
• Bananas: use slightly ripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Maple Syrup: for natural sweetness, you can also use honey, agave nectar or pitted dates.
• Vanilla Extract: use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. You can also use a pinch of cinnamon or cloves.

Health Benefits of Banana Milk: Milk on its own is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, fats for brain development (if choosing a fuller fat version), and can be a good source of vitamin D if it has been added. Add some banana and you’re getting a good dose of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add Ingredients: to a blender, add the milk, bananas, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend: on medium-high speed, blend for 60-90 seconds or until the strawberry milk is completely smooth.
3. Enjoy: Pour into a glass and serve!

How to Store

Store banana milk in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake or stir to re-mix any settling that may have occurred before serving.

What Type of Milk to Use

The best milk for toddlers 1-2 years old is whole cow’s milk, assuming they do not have an allergy or intolerance. However, you can also use plant-based milk, such as coconut, almond, soy, hemp, or oat milk. Regardless of the plant-based milk, choose one that has no added sugar and has been fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

Fun Add-Ins

This Banana Milk is great as is! But feel free to try adding in any of these additional ingredients:

• drizzle of peanut butter
• tablespoon of cocoa powder
• handful of strawberries
• pinch of cinnamon
• a small scoop of protein powder
• pinch of cloves

Cooking with Kids

You can easily have your kids help you make this flavored milk.

Toddlers

• Toddlers can help measure and pour the ingredients into the blender.
• They can help put the lid on the blender and push start. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour their milk into their cup. 

Kids

• You can pretty much let older kids make this recipe by themselves. 
• They can pick out and measure all of the ingredients. Note: make sure to talk about not touching the blender blade while making something in the blender, as it can be sharp. 
• Have them pour the banana milk into their own cup as well as a second cup for you!

Print

The Best Banana Milk (3 Minutes)

Need a fun and refreshing twist on regular milk? This homemade banana milk is quick to make and a great source of protein, calcium and potassium. Great for toddlers, kids, and adults alike!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 3 minutes

Total Time 3 minutes

Servings 2 servings

Author Michele Olivier

Equipment

• Blender
• Measuring Cups
• Kids Glass Cups

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk, regular or any plant-based milk
• 2 medium ripe bananas, fresh or thawed from frozen
• 3 tbsp maple syrup, honey, agave nectar or pitted dates
• 1/4 tsp vanilla

Instructions

• Add the milk, banana, sweetener and vanilla to a blender.
  
• On medium speed, blend for 45-60 seconds or until the banana milk is smooth and creamy.
  
• Serve and enjoy!