Introducing exciting snacks to toddlers does not have to be complicated, especially with the inclusion of one ingredient: goat milk. Goat milk is a natural source of protein and provides a creamy base for a variety of easy, tasty snacks. Here are some fun snack ideas that incorporate goat milk that your toddler will love.
Yogurt Parfait with Berries
This yogurt parfait is a delicious snack that combines creamy goat milk yogurt with sweet berries and oats or granola for a bit of crunch.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup of goat milk yogurt
· ½ cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
· 1 tbsp of oats or granola - for children old enough to chew
Instructions:
In a small cup, simply layer yogurt and berries and sprinkle on top oats or granola.
Toddlers will love this snack because it is so delicious, and the number of ingredients involved makes it really simple to make.
Fruit and Goat Milk Smoothies
Smoothies are always a great and refreshing way to combine flavours together. While this recipe uses banana and strawberries, feel free to experiment with other fruits such asblueberries, mango, or even peaches to create a sweet and velvety smoothie.
Ingredients:
· ½ cup of goat milk using Baby Steps Stage 3 Toddler Milk Drink
· 1 banana
· ½ cup of strawberries
· 1 tsp honey (optional, for toddlers over one year old)
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve in a toddler-friendly cup, and let your little one enjoy!
Smoothies are an excellent option if you want to combine a lot of flavours into a quick, enjoyable snack.
Homemade Goat Milk Popsicles
Popsicles are a perfect snack on those hot summerdays. They're basically hassle-free to make, and you can use anything you want. The recipe below shows you a simple way to make popsicles using a pre-mix base from Baby Steps Stage 4 Junior Milk Drink.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup of goat milk using Baby Steps Stage 4 Junior Milk Drink
· ½ cup of fresh fruit puree (like mango or berries)
Instructions:
Mix the goat milk with the fruit puree and fill up the popsicle molds. Place them in the freezer for several hours until frozen.
Homemade popsicles are such a fun and simple activity you can do with your child and so tasty too!
Savory Veggie and Goat Milk Dip
Snacks don't need to be sweet. Here is a wonderful savory dip made out of goat milk yogurt with added herbs like dill or parsley. This goes really well with fresh veggie sticks of cucumbers, carrots, and even bell peppers.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup of goat milk yogurt
· 1 tsp of chopped dill or parsley
· A pinch of salt (optional, for toddlers over a year old)
Instructions:
Combine yogurt and herbs in a bowl, and mix well. Serve sliced veggies on the side for dipping.
This snack is a delicious dip for kids to explore new flavours.
Banana Goat Milk Muffins
Banana muffins with goat milk are super yummy, soft, and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup of goat milk using Baby Steps Stage 4 Junior Milk Drink
· 2 ripe bananas, mashed
· 1 cup of flour
· 1 tsp of baking powder
Instructions:
Preheat oven to180°C. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and pour into a muffin tray, baking for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
These muffins are really great for snacking or even for breakfast.
Why Use Goat Milk in Toddler Snacks?
Goat milk is really good for toddlers because it's a natural source of protein, contains essential vitamins and minerals, and is easier to digest compared to cow's milk given its unique protein, fat and oligosaccharide profile. Smooth, creamy and mild in flavour, goat milk is also well-suited for sweet and savoury recipes without being too overpowering.
Conclusion
Adding goat milk into your toddler's snacks is an easy way to add extra protein to their diet while keeping snack time fun, flavourful, and easy for you and your toddler.