12 Ways To Add More Fruit To Your Kid's Lunchbox

Fruit offers so many health benefits, such as antioxidants and fiber, so sneaking some fresh, sweet fruit into your children's lunchboxes will help you rest easier with the knowledge that they are receiving the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong. For kids who balk at the idea of fresh fruit, some ingenuity with preparation is required. 

Apple Turtles

These turtles, made of grapes and Granny Smith apples, will delight even the pickiest of eaters, and allow you to rest assured that your kid is eating lots of powerful antioxidants.
For the Apple Turtles recipe, click here.

Apple Wedge Dessert

Apples are a great food to include in your kids' diets. Not only do they taste great, but apples are a good source of fiber, have powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation, and promote optimal digestion! I love that apples are low in price and you can get them all year round. That is why we love making these apple snacks.
For the Apple Wedge Dessert recipe, click here.

Apple, White Cheddar, and Gruyère Macaroni and Cheese

Add just a little apple to this fan favorite. Your kids will love the cheesy mac, and you will love the extra serving of fruit.
For the Apple, White Cheddar, and Gruyere Macaroni and Cheese recipe, click here.

Banana ‘Sushi’

This is an easy-to-make sushi snack that, well, isn't sushi at all. This quick snack combines fresh bananas and peanut butter, neatly rolled in the topping of your choice to mimic a cute sushi roll that is a little easier for tiny hands to craft.
For the Banana 'Sushi' recipe, click here.

Blockbuster Blueberry Muffins

These days, the average supersized muffin costs you half a day's calories and fat grams. The ones that taste good are no better than cupcakes without the icing (and the ones that are whole grain and low-fat taste just like the box they came in). If you want the best of both worlds — great taste and lower fat — these muffins may become your family's favorite morning staple. White bean purée works overtime to cut the fat and provide fiber, and the oat bran disappears behind the world's healthiest berry.
For the Blockbuster Blueberry Muffins recipe, click here.

Brainy Brownies

If you're looking for a way to give your favorite brownie recipe a healthy boost, look no further. The spinach, whole grains, and antioxidant-rich blueberries in these baked goods make them a healthier dessert.
For the Brainy Brownies recipe, click here.

Fruit-Topped Sugar Cookie Dessert Pizza

This dessert pizza by Jennifer Appel, New York baker and owner of Buttercup Bake Shop, allows you to get creative with refrigerated sugar cookie dough. A creamy layer of vanilla pudding is spread over the dough, which can be topped with a variety of fruits and a sprinkling of flaked coconut.
For the Fruit Topped Sugar Cookie Dessert Pizza recipe, click here.

Gluten-Free Cookie, Greek Yogurt, and Fruit Parfait

This parfait makes for a perfect lunchtime snack for kids with gluten sensitivities. Sneak extra fruit into your kid's lunchbox by adding antioxidant-rich berries.
For the Gluten-Free Cookie, Greek Yogurt, and Fruit Parfait recipe, click here.

Grape, Cheddar, and Jicama Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Dipping Sauce

For the adventurous kid, add some flavor to a plain cheese-and-grape skewer with the addition of crunchy jicama and a zesty cilantro-lime dipping sauce.
For the Grape, Cheddar, and Jicama Skewers with Cilantro-Lima Dipping Sauce recipe, click here.

Grape and Ricotta Pita Pizza

This fun no-bake pizza lets your kids pile on the toppings without worrying about the oven.  Add more fruit or vegetables for a different taste.
For the Grape and Ricotta Pita Pizza recipe, click here.

Mango Tango Tortilla

Slice this mango provolone quesadilla up into strips about one-inch wide and serve with a side of strawberries. It will dance right across your kid's taste buds.
For the Mango Tango recipe, click here.

Sneak-Wiches

Much like the packaged versions in the grocery store, this is a homemade, healthier version of the conveniently made-ahead sandwich that you keep in the freezer. The key is to remove the crusts of the bread and crimp the edges to "seal" the sandwich together. I suggest making several sandwiches at a time, and freezing each individually in a plastic bag. There are several filling options to choose from.
For the Sneak-Wiches recipe, click here.