A Recipe to Solve that Pesky Packing Problem!

One of my kids’ favorite snacks is apple slices with peanut butter. I love it too, mostly because it has that Trifecta of Fullness I’m always talking about (fiber, protein, fat) which keeps them feeling fuller for longer.

But when it comes to packing lunches, this old standby leaves much to be desired because, well, it just doesn’t like to travel. We’ve tried all sorts of various containers and contraptions to get this favorite snack to school with my kiddos but everything seemed to leave behind a giant peanut buttery mess.

We did try to cut the apples into rounds, width-wise. It sort of works but to get the slices thin enough to eat (yet thick enough to contain the peanut butter) was far too time consuming for my morning jam.

Enter the Peanut Butter Apple salad!

Super-easy and crazy customizable. The kids had a blast helping me come up with mix-ins and then getting to taste test them. The sprinkles might sound crazy but they are an homage to a babysitter of mine who used to make apples with peanut butter and sprinkles for my brother and me. Nearly three decades later, the tradition continues!

Make sure to pack it in a leak-proof container with a fork and you’ll be on your way!

 

Peanut Butter Apple Salad

Serves 2

  • 1 chopped apple
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1- 2 tbsp Original (unflavored) almond milk
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)

Mix-in Options

  • Granola and raisins
  • Sprinkles
  • Drizzle of warmed jelly

Place chopped apples in a medium mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together peanut butter and almond milk, adding almond milk 1 tbsp at a time to yield the right consistency (using more or less depending on the thickness of your peanut butter). You’re looking for the mixture to become like a thick dressing, yet not completely runny. If you have trouble, try warming the mixture in the microwave for 10 seconds, then stirring again.

Add honey to peanut butter dressing if desired and stir to combine. Pour over chopped apples and stir to coat. Choose the mix-ins of your choice and add to the mixture, stirring to incorporate.

Don’t forget to pack a fork!

Part of this complete lunch (dolphin sandwich cutter not included).