Kids and snacks go hand in hand. Whether it’s a quick bite between school and soccer practice or a treat for family movie night, snacks are essential. But instead of the usual crackers and granola bars, why not take their taste buds on a little adventure? The world is packed with delicious, kid-friendly snacks that are fun, flavorful, and even a little educational. These are some of the best snacks from around the world that kids (and parents) will absolutely love!
Poffertjes (The Netherlands)
Imagine tiny, fluffy pancakes covered in powdered sugar—because that’s exactly what poffertjes are. These bite-sized Dutch treats are made from a light batter, cooked in special little molds to create soft, pillowy pancakes that are slightly crispy on the outside.
Why kids love them:
- They’re like mini pancakes, which means they’re already a hit.
- They can be topped with fruit, syrup, or even chocolate.
- Eating tiny pancakes feels extra fun!
Onigiri (Japan)
Onigiri is basically Japan’s version of a sandwich—only way more fun. These rice balls are shaped by hand, often stuffed with fillings like tuna, salmon, or pickled plum, and wrapped in a sheet of crispy seaweed.
Why kids love them:
- They’re handheld, making them perfect for lunchboxes.
- They can be shaped into cute animals or characters.
- The seaweed adds a fun, crunchy texture.
Arepas (Colombia & Venezuela)
These thick, golden corn cakes are a staple in Colombia and Venezuela, and they’re perfect for kids. Arepas can be stuffed with cheese, beans, eggs, or just about anything delicious.
Why kids love them:
- They’re soft, warm, and just the right size for little hands.
- They can be filled with cheese for an extra gooey treat.
- They’re great for dipping into soup or salsa.
Churros (Spain & Mexico)
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in cinnamon sugar—what’s not to love about churros? This Spanish and Mexican favorite is a long, fried dough pastry often dipped in warm chocolate.
Why kids love them:
- They’re like donut sticks but even crispier.
- The cinnamon sugar coating is sweet and comforting.
- Dipping anything in chocolate automatically makes it better.
Bánh Mì Sandwiches (Vietnam)
Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich with a mix of fresh, crunchy veggies, marinated meats, and a perfectly crisp baguette. For kids, a simple version with grilled chicken and a little mayo makes for a fantastic lunch.
Why kids love them:
- They have a mix of textures—crispy bread, crunchy veggies, and soft filling.
- They can be made mild or spicy, depending on preferences.
- They’re an exciting twist on a classic sandwich.
Tim Tams (Australia)
Tim Tams are chocolate-covered biscuits with a creamy filling, and they’re an absolute obsession in Australia. The real fun comes in the Tim Tam Slam—biting off both ends, using it as a straw for milk or hot chocolate, and then eating the whole melty, delicious mess.
Why kids love them:
- They’re chocolate-covered—enough said.
- The Tim Tam Slam is a game and a snack all in one.
- The crunchy-to-creamy texture is just right.
Guava Pastelitos (Cuba & Puerto Rico)
Pastelitos are flaky pastries filled with sweet guava paste and sometimes cheese. These Cuban and Puerto Rican treats are like fruit-filled turnovers but even better.
Why kids love them:
- The guava filling is sweet but not too sugary.
- The pastry is buttery and crispy.
- They’re great for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Stroopwafels (The Netherlands)
The stroopwafel is a thin, waffle-like cookie filled with gooey caramel syrup. It’s best enjoyed placed on top of a warm cup of tea or milk, where the steam softens the caramel just enough.
Why kids love them:
- The caramel filling is perfectly sticky and sweet.
- They can be eaten as is or softened over a warm drink.
- They feel like a special treat without being too heavy.
Cheese Bread (Brazil)
Brazilian pão de queijo is a warm, cheesy bread roll made from tapioca flour. These little bites are naturally gluten-free and have a deliciously chewy texture.
Why kids love them:
- They’re soft and cheesy—basically the perfect snack.
- They have a slightly crispy outside with a gooey middle.
- They can be eaten plain or dipped in jam.
Mochi (Japan)
Mochi is a chewy, sweet rice cake often filled with red bean paste or ice cream. These little Japanese treats have a unique texture that kids find fascinating.
Why kids love them:
- The soft, squishy texture is fun to eat.
- They come in different flavors, from mango to chocolate.
- Ice cream-filled mochi makes them even better!
Kinder Bueno (Germany & Italy)
This chocolate bar is no ordinary candy. Kinder Bueno is filled with creamy hazelnut filling, wrapped in a crispy wafer, and coated in smooth milk chocolate. It’s a snack that feels extra fancy but is still kid-approved.
Why kids love them:
- They have a mix of crunch and creaminess.
- The hazelnut filling is mild and delicious.
- They come in small portions, perfect for a treat.
Dadar Gulung (Indonesia)
These bright green Indonesian crepes are made with pandan (which gives them their color) and are filled with sweet coconut and palm sugar. They’re like tropical-flavored pancakes in a roll.
Why kids love them:
- The green color makes them extra fun.
- They’re sweet, coconutty, and super soft.
- They’re fun to roll up and eat with their hands.