As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, it’s time to embrace the flavors of fall with some delicious and nutritious snacks! We’ve curated a collection of 6 unique fall snacks that are perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a tasty and healthy treat on hand whenever hunger strikes. These recipes go beyond the usual pumpkin spice and apple cider, offering a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy your cravings.
Contents
1. Spiced Pumpkin Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls are packed with fall flavors and provide a healthy dose of energy to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up.
Meal Prep Tip: Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re perfect for grabbing on the go or as a quick afternoon pick-me-up. These energy balls are a convenient and kid-friendly snack that requires no cooking or baking. They’re also packed with fiber and protein, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
2. Apple Cinnamon Baked Chips
These crispy chips are a guilt-free alternative to traditional potato chips.
Ingredients
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange apple slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Bake for 1 hour, then flip the slices and bake for another 30-45 minutes, or until crisp.
Meal Prep Tip: Store the baked apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re a perfect snack to pack in your lunch or enjoy with a cup of tea. Baked apple chips are a healthy and satisfying snack that can be prepared in advance. They’re also a great way to use up any extra apples you might have on hand.
3. Roasted Sweet Potato Bites with Maple Drizzle
These sweet and savory bites are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy fall flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and serve warm.
Meal Prep Tip: Store the roasted sweet potato bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Roasted sweet potato bites are a versatile and healthy snack that can be made ahead of time. They’re also packed with fiber and vitamins, making them a satisfying and nutritious option.
4. Pear and Walnut Snack Packs
These pre-portioned snack packs are perfect for grabbing on the go.
Ingredients
- 2 pears, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions
- Divide the pear slices, walnuts, and goat cheese into individual containers or snack bags.
Meal Prep Tip: Store the snack packs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These snack packs are a convenient and healthy option for busy days. They offer a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
5. Spiced Cranberry Trail Mix
This festive trail mix is packed with fall flavors and provides a healthy dose of energy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Divide into individual snack bags or containers.
Meal Prep Tip: Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This trail mix is a convenient and healthy snack that can be enjoyed throughout the week. It’s also packed with fiber and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious option.
6. Mini Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Parfaits
These parfaits are a delicious and healthy way to start your day or enjoy as a snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 cup granola
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine yogurt, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and maple syrup.
- Layer yogurt mixture, granola, and pecans in small glasses or jars.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Meal Prep Tip: Prepare several parfaits at once for grab-and-go snacks or breakfasts throughout the week. These parfaits are a quick and easy snack that can be prepared in advance. They’re also a good source of protein and calcium, making them a satisfying and nutritious option.
Final Thoughts
With a little planning and these delicious recipes, you can easily meal prep your way to a tasty and healthy fall. Remember, snacking doesn’t have to be boring or unhealthy. By choosing whole food ingredients and preparing your snacks in advance, you can nourish your body and satisfy your cravings all season long.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.