6 healthy after-school snacks for kids

As the new school year kicks off, it’s time to dust down the pencil case, break in those new shoes and get back into term-time routines.

We’ve rounded up six super little snacks to help you make healthy eating part of the school day. Have one of these fun and tasty treats ready when the kids get back from school and the thought of crisps or chocolate won’t even cross their minds!
Packed full of goodness and really filling, these delicious muffins are made with cottage cheese, mixed seeds, spring onions and either butternut squash or sweet potato – whichever you prefer. Make a batch and enjoy them for breakfast on the go, too.

== Method ==

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases or 15cm folded squares of greaseproof paper, then lightly wipe each one with oiled kitchen paper.
Peel the sweet potatoes or squash and coarsely grate into a large bowl. Trim the spring onions, then finely slice with the chilli and add to the bowl, reserving half the chilli to one side.
Crack in the eggs, add the cottage cheese and flour, then finely grate in most of the Parmesan and season with sea salt and black pepper. Mix until nicely combined.
Evenly divide the muffin mixture between the cases. Sprinkle over the sunflower and poppy seeds, then dot over the reserved slices of chilli.
Use the remaining Parmesan to give a light dusting of cheese over each one, then bake at the bottom of the oven for 45 to 50 minutes (if using squash, it’ll be a bit quicker – check after 35 minutes), or until golden and set.
These are amazing served warm 5 minutes after taking them out of the oven, and good kept in the fridge for a couple of days. Enjoy 2 muffins per portion.