Kid Snacks We’re Never Giving Up
There are plenty of delicious foods that often get categorized as “for kids.” However, as adults, many of these foods hold a special place in our hearts, whether due to great taste, convenience, or nostalgia. With that in mind, these are 20 popular items older generations can’t get enough of.
1. Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are small breaded and fried pieces that are a popular snack and fast food item. They are usually served as part of a child's meal but have also gained popularity among adults as a quick and easy-to-eat comfort food. Dino nuggets especially have a nostalgic place in the hearts of many.
2. Peanut Butter Sandwiches
Peanut butter sandwich refers to a sandwich that has peanut butter, either creamy or crunchy, as a spread on bread. They are a classic, nostalgic comfort food, but are also very portable and delicious.
3. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that is often associated with childhood but is enjoyed by adults as well. It's a comfort food that many people grew up eating and continue to love as they get older. Mac and cheese has become a versatile dish that can be prepared in many ways.
4. Ants on a Log
Ants on a log is something that most people outgrow as children but come to really enjoy as adults. These celery sticks stuffed with peanut butter and sprinkled with raisins hit all of the right notes: crunchy, creamy, and sweet. It's the perfect pick-me-up snack or even a light meal.
5. Blizzards
Blizzards are creamy and filled with mix-ins, making them more than a childlike nostalgia trip. They are indulgent, customizable, and a great dessert. They are a dessert you can get excited about.
6. Spaghetti-Os
Spaghetti-Os is a brand of canned pasta packaged in the form of small rings of pasta in tomato sauce. They are traditionally served as a children's lunch but have gained a surprising following with adults as a quick and easy meal that is also nostalgic and convenient. The fun shape and ease of preparation make them a surprisingly satisfying snack or light dinner for adults.
7. Grape Jelly
Grape jelly used to be a common sandwich filler in childhood peanut butter sandwiches. However, it now has a dedicated fan base among adults who enjoy its sweet, fruity taste paired with toast, cheese, or even savory foods. It's a pantry staple that many adults enjoy for both nostalgic comfort and its ability to enhance simple meals.
8. Bear Paws
Bear Paws, those soft, little cinnamon-flavored snacks, are so cute. They kind of have that "for kids only" vibe to them. But that's not always the case! Grownups love Bear Paws too as a quick breakfast on the run or a snack.
9. Goldfish Crackers
Goldfish crackers, shaped like tiny fish and tasting of cheese, are a popular snack for both children and adults. Their small size and portable nature make them a convenient snack for lunchboxes, desks, or a quick munch on the go. Many adults enjoy Goldfish crackers for their nostalgic appeal and simple, comforting flavor.
10. Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a blanket are a simple snack that most kids love, and adults certainly don't mind indulging in, either. It's an easy dish to whip up and a great choice for party food, game day snacks, or simply because you're craving it at home. Warm and savory, the bite-sized pockets have universal appeal.
Philipp Michel Reichold on Wikimedia
11. Hot Pockets
Hot Pockets are those little handheld stuffed sandwiches. It’s easy to think of them as kid food, but let's face it, adults love them too. They're super easy and fast to heat, and just right for a quick lunch when you're busy or a late-night snack.
Lenin and McCarthy on Wikimedia
12. Root Beer Floats
Root beer floats have transitioned from a kid's treat to an adult nostalgic indulgence. The sweet, fizzy blend of creamy ice cream and root beer is irresistible to adult taste buds. Served as a dessert or special treat, it evokes memories with its simple comfort flavors.
American Heritage Chocolate on Unsplash
13. Rice Krispy Treats
Rice Krispy treats are often thought of as a child's snack, and can be, but adults are rediscovering them for their sugary goodness. These treats are easy and fun, with a unique combination of gooey and crunchy. The gooey marshmallows mix with crisp rice cereal to create a chewy yet light treat.
14. Cereal
Cereal has become a staple food for children for breakfast. But as more adults find it convenient, tasty, or simply nostalgic, it is rapidly gaining a cult following in the adult population. Cereal is generally served with milk but may be eaten dry or straight out of the box, especially as a snack.
15. Frozen Pizza
Frozen pizza is no longer just a child's quick meal; it's an adult comfort food. From classic cheese to gourmet flavors, its wide variety of toppings and styles cater to mature palates. Many adults prefer it for a fast, tasty dinner or as an indulgent snack.
16. Ritz Crackers
Made simple for kids, Ritz Crackers have ascended the snacking ranks and can now be found in the hands of any adult seeking a quick pick-me-up. They go great with any buttery, savory flavors, crackers, or dips. They can be easily torn, and their flavors mix well with cheese, spreads, or any soup.
17. Bagel Bites
Bagel Bites started out as a playful snack for kids but have grown to have a strong adult fan base. Mini and customizable, they make for an ideal quick and filling late-night indulgence or simple party finger food. Adults love them for their convenience, nostalgia, and quirky take on classic pizza ingredients.
18. Oreos
Yes, Oreos are for kids. But they are also for adults, too. Oreos are a versatile cookie that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They can be dipped in milk, added to recipes, or eaten on the go.
19. Flamin' Hot Cheetos
Flamin' Hot Cheetos were originally marketed as a kids' snack, but they have a strong adult fan base due to their intense, addictive flavor. The crunchy, spicy snacks can be eaten on their own as a bold, satisfying snack or added to recipes to give them a kick. Adults who enjoy Flamin' Hot Cheetos often associate them with nostalgia.
20. Fruit Gushers
Fruit Gushers were first advertised as a children's playful, fruity snack but are now popular as an adult snack. With each bite, consumers experience a liquid-filled gush of fruity flavor. Adults have taken to Fruit Gushers as a sweet, indulgent snack that's fun to enjoy and reminisce about.
