Planning a first birthday party for your little one? These Seattle bakeries get top marks for too-cute smash cakes that little ones love. Whether you go for a mini version of the larger cake you order for party guests or you go for cupcakes alongside a smash cake, these bakeries can deliver the perfect amount of sweetness and artsy design.
Sugar n Flakes Bakery
The bakers at Sugar n Flakes Bakery are firm believers that birthdays are special for all of us, regardless of age. If small is what you need, they’ve got you covered with a six-inch cake (smash or otherwise) that feeds six to eight people. Even this downsized version comes with flavors a-plenty, although vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream is the go-to choice for your baby’s first. And if gluten-free or vegan tops your cake-needs list, they can help with that too.
The Sweet Side
Kara Burfeind says that she has been baking longer than she can remember and can’t think of many other things that she enjoys more, except maybe decorating her prized pieces. After graduating from the Bonnie Gordon College of Confectionary Arts in Toronto, she opened The Sweet Side bakery offering French macarons, her famous carrot cake by the slice, and many other desserts. If a tiny cake is what you need, count on her to design a cake you won’t forget.
Seatown Sweets
If a classic smash cake (vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream) is what you’re after, look no further than Seatown Sweets. Head Baker, Kayla Heffner rocks this classic four-inch cake with the best of them. If you want to branch out a bit, you can play with chocolate and vanilla flavor pairings, and choose more or less decoration on six-inch party cakes that serve up to 12.
Cakes by Ilse
Ilse ter Heerdt Idema is a PME-certified master cake decorator who got her start in the Netherlands before offering her wares here in the Northwest. Since that time, she has honed her skills even further receiving PME diplomas for sugarpaste, royal icing, piping, and sugar flowers. She is always looking for the best recipes and ingredients to serve her customers, including many European brands, while also minimizing her plastic usage as much as possible during the baking and decorating process in her home.
Jenny Cookies
Though Jenny Keller has made a name for herself baking cookies, her skills are not limited to just cookie dough. She brings as much creativity to her cakes (and other confections) as she does to her tasty cookies. In fact, she’s baked for many celebrities and large brands wanting beautiful desserts for their own parties, but she is just as happy creating such delights for us everyday folk as well.
Trophy
You already know Trophy for their amazing cupcakes, but did you know they also bake bigger cakes too? We’re obsessed with their sprinkle-covered creations and know you will be too. You can even order their Decorate-Your-Own Magic Cake kit which comes with everything you need to make your baby’s cake extra special.
Flying Apron
Now for something completely different. Can a bakery that offers 100% certified gluten-free and plant-based sweets be any good? Of course! Flying Apron took flight in the early 2000s before the trends, and they haven’t changed their ways since, except to continually improve their products and designs. Today they operate two bakeries in Seattle. When it comes to small cakes, they’ve got both four-inch and six-inch options, so you can feed anywhere from four up to twelve people.
KJ’s Cakery Bakery
When it comes to small cakes, we think the 6″ x 5″ Celebration Tall Cakes well.. take the cake. Bakery owner Kathy Jo Miller has creative kid-friendly combos, like strawberry lemonade, banana pudding and birthday explosion, that add a festive flair to even the smallest birthday bash.
Baked
You may be familiar with Kristina Serfass and not even know it. That’s because she is a two-time winner of Food Network’s “Cake Wars” TV series. Kristina got her love for baking from her Sicilian grandmother and her artistic talents from her German mother. Although her bakery usually focuses on elaborate custom cakes, they also offer some fun small cake options that make pandemic-sized birthdays special.
Make sure to capture photos of your tot covered in cake—and share them with family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Whether you want to spend the afternoon baking or grab a treat from the freezer, you can’t go wrong with these desserts from Trader Joe’s
What’s dinner without a little dessert? Having a sweet treat is the perfect ending to any meal, but not everyone has the energy to whip them up. That’s why we love Trader Joe’s and it’s plethora of both ready-to-eat options plus unique ingredients to make your own! From the seasonal frozen ice pops and summer-inspired macarons, to a DIY ice cream cake, don’t miss out on some of the best Trader Joe’s desserts the grocer has to offer.
Just when you thought macarons couldn’t get any more fancy, Trader Joe’s drops a summery Watermelon and Peach version! These frozen treats are ready to eat after just an hour of defrosting, are made in Belgium, and would pair perfectly with a glass of sparkling water (or wine) on a summer evening.
Chocolate Lava Cakes
Trader Joe’s
If you are really looking to make an impression without much work, keep these beauties in your freezer. You don’t even need to preheat your oven as these can be easily warmed in the microwave. With an ooey-gooey center, they are perfectly paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
It’s new and it’s delicious. Trader Joe’s Golden Caramel Swirl Ice Cream is perfect for anyone who already loves Moose Tracks and is packed with gooey, salted caramel floating amidst vanilla and chocolate ice cream.
If you have a hankering for frozen strawberry lemonade, look no further than this seasonal new product. Made in Italy, they are made with no artificial flavorings and instead use strawberry purée, lemon juice concentrate, and other natural flavors to give an unbelievable fruity and refreshing treat.
All the Mochi
Vanilla, green tea, Ube, and strawberry: there is mochi for every craving! Found in the freezer aisle, the boxed treat is perfect when you just want one or two morsels to satisfy a sweet tooth or just take a box or two to your next get-together for a unique ice cream dessert.
Perfectly sweet and perfectly easy to make, this cake tops our list for summer birthdays. All you have to do is leave it at room temp for a few hours and the day will be ready to serve. Serve it with a scoop of horchata ice cream for a double treat.
While these cheesecake cones don’t exactly mimic the creamy goodness that is traditional cheesecake, they still make for a wonderful dessert. If you love almonds, the cone will knock your socks off as it pairs with the sweet filling. As we mentioned, these don’t exactly taste like cheesecake in a cone, but we appreciate and still enjoy the mini size that makes our sweet tooth happy.
Cookie Butter, Cookie Butter Ice Cream, Speculoos Cookies, and Coffee Bean Ice Cream—these are all the things you need to make the perfect ice cream cake! This decadent DIY Trader Joe’s dessert looks much harder to put together than it really is and is worth every bite.
Strawberry & Rhubarb Hand Pies
Sometimes you just need a dessert that brings you back to childhood summers. These all-butter crust Strawberry & Rhubarb hand pies hit the nail on the head. They’re made with real fruit chunks throughout the filling, sprinkled with sugar, and make dessert spent outside playing the summer day away a breeze. We highly recommend microwaving a few seconds and enjoying with some vanilla ice cream.
Chocolate & Vanilla Bean Swirl Gelato
You should probably stop what you’re doing and run straight to TJ’s for a tub of this delightfully creamy gelato. Coming in a clear tub so you can be further enticed to grab a generous pint (it’s actually a 1.9pt carton!), get ready to enjoy this gorgeous, light, ice cream that’s made with real vanilla bean flecks, cocoa, and semisweet chocolate.
Key Lime Pie
@the_arielb /
Don’t be frightened by the pale yellow color of this Key Lime pie- it’s made with natural lime juice and no added food coloring. The tart filling sits in a graham cracker crust and is ready for whatever toppings you prefer. It’s the perfect “oh, I forgot to make a dessert for the BBQ” dessert.
Chocolate Brooklyn Babka
Traditional Babka hails from Poland and Ukraine and takes all day to make. Thankfully, you can grab a package of a delightful, chocolatey Babka at TJ’s to pair with your evening coffee. The rich pastry is layered with chocolate and also topped with chocolate chips.
Our list of creative decor, festive snacks, activities, and more will basically do the planning for you (you’re welcome!)
What’s better than swimming with friends in the summer? Throwing an epic pool party for your friends! This summer, get ready to make a splash. We’ve got the scoop on the most incredible pool party ideas on the block, from the best swimming pool games (move over, Marco Polo) to fun food ideas and unforgettable favors. So grab the sunscreen, stock up on chic cover-ups, and don’t forget the summer charcuterie board!
Pool Party Decor Ideas
Set the mood and let your party-goers know how big of a splash they’re in for with bright colors and festive accents. From beach balls to pool noodles, here’s how to make your pool party look picture-perfect.
Add a pop of color to your decor with this fabulous idea from Frog Prince Paperie. Bright yellow poufs are transformed into cute pineapples—just the thing to give your party a tropical, island-inspired vibe.
Summer is all about bright candy colors. You can easily (and affordably) add lots of color with nothing more than plastic dollar-store tablecloths the pool party spotted at Spaceships and Laser Beams. Cover your food table with one and then drape the second tablecloth on the wall for a fun backdrop.
Let's face it, a party with store-bought goodies is still a great party. If you're short on time, consider buying something from your local grocer and calling it a day. From dairy-free offerings to chocolate waffles, you can run the gamut from totally unique to classic with a healthy twist—depending on your party theme.
Kids can fuel up as they play the afternoon away with this genius snack mix from Mama Cheaps. With some “fishy” ingredients mixed in, it’s perfectly on theme.
How cute is this edible idea from Inspirational Mama?! It’ll look amazing as the centerpiece of your party, and kids are sure to gobble up all the fruit.
Can’t decide between serving cake or ice cream? These adorable Snow Cone Cupcakes from Mimi’s Dollhouse are the perfect compromise. They look refreshingly delicious, but you won’t have to worry about them melting in the heat.
Pretzels plus colorful chocolate equals adorable mermaid tails! Perfect for an after-school snack or a mer-themed party, these easy-to-make tails use melting chocolates, sprinkles, and simple pretzel rods, but look like a million bucks. Get the easy recipe from Ever After in the Woods.
Pool Party Activities
There’s more to water play than splashing and swimming laps. Whether your kids can swim in the deep end or like to use pool floats in the shallow end of the (wading) pool, here are some fun games that’ll have them hopping with excitement.
Water Balloon Piñata
Shelley Massey
Skip the candy and let the party piñata sprinkle your guests with water instead. Hang overfilled water balloons in a tree or play structure and stand back while they take turns swinging a plastic bat or paper tube to see how many they can burst. Check out more fun water games.
You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money on planning some awesome activities for your guests. Keep them entertained and splashing with something as simple as a cannonball competition or a good old-fashioned game of Marco Polo. Check out more classic water games here.
Move aside water balloons, there’s a new wet and wild game that’ll last much longer! Follow Crazy Adventures in Parenting to learn how to make these squishy, fun-soaked sponge bombs.
Party Favors Perfect for a Pool Party
Your guests will be having so much fun they might not want to leave, but you can keep the party going with a fun memento from the day. Check out these awesome party favors that your guests will love and appreciate both during the party and long after it’s over.
Protect those big eyes from the bright summer glare. Kids from Miss Prim and Me’s pool party got to choose from a chromatic display of super cool shades.
Forget the usual paper party invites and give your guests something that will really get them excited about your bash with these Beach Ball Invites from The Bubbly Hostess. It’s like an invite and pre-party favor all in one! Grab a set of 6 beach balls here.
Sunscreen Station
Sandra Winters
It might not be super exciting for your young pool partygoers, but parents will definitely appreciate this favor. Put out all kinds of toddler-friendly sunscreen that your guests can use at the party and even take home. SPF 50 for the face and a spray-on one that’s waterproof? Check, check! And look at the extra flair Entertain with Jordan gave to her station!
Nothing says summer like homemade popsicles. That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate list of recipes for summer popsicles for kids—from fruit popsicles to creamsicles to homemade fudge pops that are full of flavor. These popsicle recipes are super easy, super refreshing, and a great project for young chefs. There are so many delicious frozen treats to beat the summer heat!
Your kiddos will go gaga for the out-of-this-world colors of these rainbow popsicles from The First Year Blog. There are a whopping seven layers and each sports a ton of fruit and flavor. The result looks like a truly tasty tie-dyed treat!
Oh, the thrill of being a kid and sipping a Shirley Temple! This idea from Candy Jar Chronicle takes that same classic taste and turns it into a frozen treat.
Need a great way to use up ripe (or slightly over-ripe) peaches? Bookmark these fruit popsicles, STAT! They're made from pureed fresh peaches and are basically summertime on a stick. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.
Get a taste of autumn any ol' time with popsicles that pack in the pumpkin flavor. They also include Greek yogurt and granola, which means you could even have a popsicle for breakfast. Get the recipe from Salt & Lavender.
You're gonna love these layers! Just picture this: creamy pineapple swirled with a fresh strawberry puree and no dyes or refined sugar. Best of all, they're the perfect combo of easy, pretty, and delicious. For the recipe, flow on over to One Lovely Life.
These beauties from One Lovely Life really pop with bright raspberry flavor! The kiddos will love covering them in chocolate magic shell and their fave toppings, but don't worry—they look fancy but are simple to whip up.
Are you ready to get refreshed? Boulder Locavore’s Coconut Water Pineapple Popsicles are the ultimate way to hydrate this summer. Along with the coconut water, these pops also have pineapple juice, lime juice, and a handful of raspberries. They’re vegan, tasty, and (literally) cool.
Nostalgia alert! If there’s a special place in your heart for melty, chocolatey fudgesicles, you need to try this recipe from Baker by Nature. These pops have that same taste you know and love, with a healthy twist.
Confession: we’re nuts about these homemade popsicles from Simple Vegan Blog. They include ingredients like banana, almond milk, and maple syrup; and as for the chocolate coating? Let’s just say once you make your own magic shell, you’ll never go back.
These cheerful funfetti creamsicles from Garlic My Soul are the perfect treat for a hot summer's day. Made with coconut cream, orange juice, honey, and of course, funfetti sprinkles, the creamy tanginess will be a hit.
A root beer float in popsicle form? We’re in! This popsicle recipe from Boulder Locavore is basically your fave soda-and-ice-cream treat, poured into your fave molds. Genius? We think so.
When you can’t grab the fam and head to Hawaii, the next best thing is one oofo these tropical popsicles from Recipe Runner. They’re the perfect combo of creamy and icy—perfect for higher temps and hungry tummies.
These chocolate peanut butter pops are the perfect deviation from fruit pops. Plus, they're the perfect treat for chocolate lovers to keep around! Try topping it off with some whipped cream or your favorite topping. You'll find this recipe at The Kitchen McCabe.
Any kid worth his salt knows that lemonade is pretty much a summer requirement. Add on the taste of fresh strawberries and tangy yogurt and you’ve got a refreshing match made in heaven. You can thank Pass the Sushi for this homemade popsicle inspiration.
What’s black and white and sweet all over? These Oreo-inspired popsicles from The View from Great Island! These fantabulous treats have honest-to-goodness whole cookies inside them, so every bite has the potential to be your favorite bite.
Here’s the scoop on paletas: they’re Latin American ice pops that are usually made from fresh fruit. That means they’re extra refreshing and extra easy to make yourself. These Triple Berry Paletas from Lola Cocina fit the bill, and they can be customized to your kid’s palate with different berry combinations.
Good news - these homemade popsicles are as yummy as they are pretty! Emily from One Lovely Life combines orange juice and strawberries to create these vibrant pops.
Just like the rocket pops from the ice cream truck, but way healthier, these patriotic popsicles will be a sure-fire hit at your summer BBQs. Get the recipe from Beth at Pass the Plants.
Kick up your popsicle game with these mango chili popsicles from Isabel Eats. Yummy, sweet mango meets its match in a touch of chili for a delicious take on these summer treats.
This classic flavor combo comes together in a refreshing homemade popsicle that's perfect for cooling down in the summer heat. Erin from Food Fanatic breaks down how easy this recipe really is!
Dreaming of a traffic-free trip from LA that still delivers fun, sun and then some? Look no further than easy-to-navigate Santa Barbara
Kids who are ‘loco’ for locomotives will go off the rails for this unforgettable train journey to Santa Barbara. The great walkability of this coastal town makes leaving the car at home a total breeze. From trolley rides and whale watching to museums and marine life, explore the sights via the Santa Barbara Car Free ‘Take the Train’ promotion which includes discounts on hotels, restaurants, and more kid-friendly activities. There are plenty of exciting activities to do with your kids in Santa Barbara that’ll give your family unforgettable memories.
The Best Way to Travel between SoCal & Santa Barbara
Train-loving kids will be over-the-moon to get out of the car and onto the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner or Coast Starlight. With multiple trains per day departing from many Southern California locations, taking the train sets the mood for untethered travel. Instead of being locked into car seats, timing traffic, and stopping for bathroom breaks, the train allows your family to engage face-to-face, relax and hit the snack bar or bathroom anytime. This scenic route gets even better as the Amtrak Surfliner and Coast Starlight hug the California coast, giving a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets and ocean views.
Even the animals have an ocean view in Santa Barbara. Enjoy peek-a-boo views of the Pacific Ocean while you admire the giraffes feeding and watch the palm trees sway over the pink flamingos. The Santa Barbara Zoo has an impressive array of 500 animals on 30 beautifully-landscaped acres. From penguins and foxes to leopards and lions, this laid-back zoo is a must for animal-loving families.
Car-Free Tips: The Santa Barbara Zoo is just under 2 miles from Stearns Wharf. The Waterfront MTD bus and Santa Barbara Trolley Company both have a stop directly in front of the zoo—or do a half-day bike rental and enjoy the scenic 2-mile ride along the boardwalk.
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation
The innovative MOXI has been getting rave reviews since it opened in 2017 and for good reason. Thoughtful exhibits ignite curiosity and creativity through interactive play on three beautifully-designed floors. Build and race Automoblox race cars, create movie soundtracks, and engage in tons of STEAM fun for all ages. Check out the rooftop Sky Garden for breathtaking views of Santa Barbara. We give this brilliant and bright children's museum an A+.
Car-Free Tips: The Museum is conveniently located on State Street, next door to the Santa Barbara Amtrak train station, and easy walking distance from many hotels.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, Sea Center
Small but mighty, the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf includes interactive touch tanks with a beautiful array of sea stars, sea urchins, and sharks. Take a turn with the oceanographic tools, including a bucket that kids can lower down into the ocean, and come back with a scoop full of marine life to look at under the microscope. A super-cool hands-on experience for future marine explorers.
211 Stearns Wharf Santa Barbara Online:sbnature.org
For families with kids ages five and up, Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers a kayaking Harbor Fun Paddle around the Santa Barbara shoreline. This 2-hour guided tour loops through the harbor and near Stearns Wharf. Kids sit in the front of the double-kayak with a pint-sized paddle and a parent in the back, as you look for sea stars, seals, and sea lions to the narrative of a knowledgeable guide. Gentle waters make this mellow paddle perfect for parents and kids.
Climb aboard the Condor Express for a memorable 2.5-hour cruise in search of whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions. This high-speed jet-powered catamaran cruises from Sea Landing to the Santa Barbara Channel looking for Humpback whales and pods of dolphins to the delight of passengers of all ages. Large viewing decks outside, onboard bathrooms, a snack bar, and indoor seating options make this whale-watching trip a great choice for families.
Hotel Santa Barbara is full of historic charm in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, a short 8-minute walk up State Street from the train station. A hotel has been on the site since 1876 and its traditional style is complemented by modern comforts, including oh-so-comfy pillow-top beds, plush robes, and modern bathrooms. Gourmet coffee, waffles, and locally-baked pastries are free to guests during the complimentary continental breakfast, including decadent almond and dark chocolate croissants from Renaud’s Patisserie. The super-convenient State Street location makes it a great middle point between the beach and downtown Santa Barbara.
Across the street from the train station and directly in the urban Funk Zone is the hip Waterman Hotel. The hotel has a modern vibe mixed with a European hostel state of mind, welcoming travelers of all types, from families with kids of all ages to global backpackers, retirees, and wine-trail revelers. Bring your own groceries to utilize the hotel's full-size community kitchen or just enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast. The hotel has 27 modern rooms with ensuite bathrooms and a few shared bunk-bed rooms typically for single travelers, but parents have been known to rent them out for a kids' bunk-bed room.
12 E. Montecito St. Santa Barbara Online:marriott.com
Located conveniently near the beach and MOXI, Finney’s Crafthouse is a great spot to take a break from the day’s activities and refuel. With a kids menu and coloring page for the little ones (try the pizza with a side of berries!) and salads, gourmet flatbreads, burgers, and a craft-brew list for the adults, it’s a win-win for the whole family. Grab a spot on the patio and soak in the sunny views.
With refined industrial decor and a welcoming, family-friendly vibe, Helena Avenue Bakery wows guests with made-from-scratch bread, gourmet sandwiches, and delectable pastries. Located in the Funk Zone, Helena Avenue Bakery offers seat-yourself communal tables and takeaway breakfast and lunch in a modern, yet casual industrial space. Watch the working bakery in action as you savor artisan sandwiches like the California Turkey on fresh-baked baguette and the Cuban on toasted sourdough. Be sure to save room for a decadent chocolate chip cookie.
After a day taking in Santa Barbara’s many seaside activities, take a break at local-favorite FisHouse. With a sunny patio overlooking the ocean and Stearns Wharf, enjoy seafood specialties like Crab Cakes and a Seared Ahi Tuna Club for you and the kids-menu fish and chips and strawberry lemonade for the little ones.
101 E. Cabrillo Ave. Santa Barbara Online:fishousesb.com
From the train station, many hotels are within a short walking distance. The Wayfarer Hotel is just across the street and Hotel Santa Barbara is a short 8-minute walk up State Street. Bring a stroller if you have little ones who tire easily and make sure you can effortlessly manage the luggage you're bringing. A mixture of backpacks and rolling suitcases works best.
Bonus points: Let your little one bring their own pint-sized rolling suitcase. They'll love feeling grown-up and you'll appreciate the extra hands-on help. Once you're checked in to your hotel and you've dropped off your luggage, getting around is easy. Most activities are within a 10-minute walk, but there's also the MTD bus service and bikes at Wheel Fun Rentals.
Hop on and off the Santa Barbara Trolley for a fun way to travel around town. A knowledgeable driver takes you past the Santa Barbara Zoo, Sea Landing, the Santa Barbara Mission, and many stops in between. Stay on board for the whole 90-minute narrated tour or jump on and off at select stops. If you arrive at the Visitors Center with some extra time before your Trolley Tour departs, walk across the street to Chase Palm Park with a playground and pond with turtles and ducks.
Ice cream is synonymous with summer, particularly if you have little sugar babes running around. So, we scoured the city (and beyond!) for the most delicious ice cream shops near you. Read on for the scoop on where to go to satisfy your summer craving and indulge in a yummy frozen treat.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, a gourmet ice cream company launched in Columbus, Ohio, in 2002, opened its first local scoop shops in Carlsbad and is planning to open its second in North Park later this year. The midwestern favorite offers out-of-the-box flavors like Everything Bagel and Powdered Jelly Donut as well as classics like Brambleberry Crisp to Gooey Butter Cake. Jeni’s concocts its flavors using direct and fair trade ingredients, without artificial coloring. The James Beard award-winning ice cream maker has written two cookbooks and she was at the forefront of the American, artisanal ice cream movement. Be prepared for a long line, but the frozen treat is worth the wait.
South Swell was voted "Best of San Clemente" three years in a row--and for good reason! The shop is the brainchild of local owners dedicated to serving the community their creative frozen treat creations. Their delicious chocolate or vanilla ice cream bars are dipped in smooth, warm chocolate and then designed with your choice of toppings. You may also choose to try one of their amazing, cleverly named specialty bars such as The Parent Trap which is vanilla ice cream dipped in gourmet chocolate, topped with crushed Oreo cookie and a drizzle of peanut butter. Their menu is always changing, so each visit offers a new and exciting experience.
Sweet Tip: South Swell can help with birthday celebrations too! Check out how to get a portable dipping station and trike to pull up to your house on a Sunday afternoon.
Say Aloha! to Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream and its 300 flavors of Tropical Dreamssuper-premium, Hawaiian ice cream and sorbet. Super-premium means it's handmade with 18% butterfat, adding a rich and creamy texture you can taste. Flavors like Chocolate Coconut Macadamia Nut, Lilikoi Sorbet, or Peanut Butter and Guava Jelly will have your littles screaming for more. Their ice cream is dense and creamy and exactly what you're craving as the summer temps rise.
Sweet Tip: When you can't choose between flavors, try the flight so you can have more than one at a time.
North Park 3077 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104
Point Loma 3740 Sports Arena Blvd, Suite 6 San Diego, CA 92110
Nostalgia reigns supreme at any walk-up ice cream shop and Mr. Trustee creamery is no exception. The location is adjacent to Cardellino in Mission Hills and lead by Executive Pastry Chef Jeremy Harville of the Trust Group, the shop serves chef-centric flavors like malted chocolate brownie, kiwi cucumber sorbet with Tajin and Captain Crunch or malted milk soft serve. Indulge in La Dolce Vita!
They're not technically ice cream, but they're still very worthy of a mention here! Holy Paleta's handcrafted pops are made with all-natural ingredients and full of delicious toppings. Bold, inventive and exciting flavors range from kid-faves Strawberry Lemonade and Watermelon to Chamango on a Stick! and Pineapple Mojito. Kids will go wild for the raspberry lemonade paleta that's dipped in white chocolate and adorned with Fruity Pebbles cereal. There are plenty of other "dressed" paleta options on the menu too! Believe us, you've never tasted a popsicle like this before.
Sweet Tip: Be creative! You can drizzle, half dip or full dip chocolate and throw any toppings on your handcrafted pop.
2040 India St. (Little Italy) San Diego, CA 92101 619-915-5366
4230 Bonita Rd. Suite B Bonita, CA 91902 619-773-6568
This decadent, artisanal homemade ice cream shop was founded by a mother-daughter duo and a visit here is a doubly sweet treat because your ice cream is served with a chocolate chip cookie! All of JoJo's Creamery ice creams, cookies, waffle cones and sauces are made from scratch. Ice cream flavors include elevated versions of classics and interesting, flavorful delights such as Cayenne Sea Salt Caramel. You'll appreciate that JoJo's Creamery ice creams do not contain corn syrup, stabilizers, fillers, artificial flavorings or food colorings. If you're looking for a next-level trip to enjoy ice cream, this place is definitely what kids are calling 'extra' these days.
Sweet Tip: Most of JoJo's ice cream is made with organic dairy from Straus Family Creamery and they always have a few vegan flavors available as well as gluten-free chocolate chip cookies and waffle cones daily.
JoJo's Creamery ice cream is also available for delivery via DoorDash, UberEATS, Grubhub and Postmates. They also offer ice cream pies (advance order is required).
937 S Coast Highway 101 Ste. 106 Encinitas, CA 92024 Online: jojoscreamery.com
Salt & Straw at One Paseo
Looking for a cool spot for family date night? Salt & Straw isn’t your average ice cream shop by any stretch. The family-run business conjures up wildly imaginative San Diego-specific flavors made using ingredients from local businesses. Made locally in small batches, their ice creams combine local, organic and sustainable ingredients into unique flavors you can’t find anywhere else. Their menu has two parts: permanent fixtures (called “classics”) that are so beloved they remain year-round and a selection of limited-time flavors that rotate each month. Classics here include Honey Lavender (a delightfully light purple-hued treat), Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons (featuring hand-burned caramel with a deep, rich flavor you won’t find in your grocery aisle) and Chocolate Gooey Brownie (hot chocolate ice cream with hearty chunks of chewy brownie). Scoops are available in either cups or handmade waffle cones, in addition to milkshakes, special sundaes and pints-to- go.
Click here for info on local pick-up and delivery options.
Sweet Tip: The pints-to-go come in a collection of themed party packs. This Oh, Baby! gift pack is the perfect present for your bestie and their little scoop of joy.
Salt & Straw at One Paseo 3705 Caminito Court, Ste. 0580 San Diego, CA 92130 Online: saltandstraw.com
SomiSomi
Journey off the beaten ice cream path and try a new and delicious frozen treat at SomiSomi. Known as Ah-Boong in Korea, this Taiyaki soft serve is a culinary art form. Start by choosing between four flavors (or get a swirl) of: True Milk, Ube, Black Sesame or Matcha. Then choose a filling of red bean, custard or Nutella. This is piled high into a goldfish-shaped waffle cone known as boong-uh-bbang, which you can top off with an array of toppings ranging from fruity cereal to sprinkles.
Sweet Tip: Check out Evan's Pond before or after your trip to SomiSomi for a full day of summer fun!
Opening soon at UTC.
9168 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92126
4620 Convoy St. San Diego, CA 92111 Online: somisomi.com
This popular food truck can be found all over San Diego, serving up traditional Hawaiian shaved ice with a wide array of syrup flavors. Fan favorites include Wild Watermelon, Blue Raspberry and Tiger’s Blood. The best part is that the syrups are customer-accessible so you can use as much or as little as you want in any combination. Blue Tiger Watermelon? Why not?
Kona Ice Use the online locator to find a truck near you: kona-ice.com
Iceskimo
Not all shaved ice is created equally. Taiwanese “snow” is shaved off large cylinders in ribbons so pretty they resemble peonies. Flavor choices include lychee, Stumptown coffee and matcha and toppings include everything from cheesecake and panna cotta to popping boba. The folks at Iceskimo offer this pro ordering tip: "request condensed milk layered in the middle for extra sweetness and creaminess."
Iceskimo 4609 Convoy St., #B San Diego, CA 92111 858-216-1111 Online: iceskimo.com
Niederfrank’s Ice Cream
When you’re craving nostalgia along with your butter pecan, head down to this beloved National City ice cream parlor. Their website proudly proclaims they make ice cream in the same outdated, inefficient manner they did when they opened in the 1940s: in freezers. They have a wide variety of chocolate flavors, sherbets, sorbets, coffee flavors, fresh and fruity flavors and creative creations. Something for everyone!
Niederfrank’s Ice Cream 726 A Ave. National City, CA 91950 619-477-0828 Online: niederfranks.com
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Check out this scoop shop in Carlsbad Village and Del Mar Highlands too. Grab a giant scoop for your whole brood, after the beach, dining or visiting the Wednesday Farmer's Market. What's more, you'll get to choose from over 32 flavors. Handel's is known for its freshly-made ice cream with natural ingredients and huge ice cream cones. Little ice cream eaters love the crazy Purple Dinosaur which tastes like grape Skittles, and bigger kids go for the Oreo Dough or Chocolate Chunk. Further, if you can't choose what to order the four-scoop sampler is a great way to find new flavors.
Sweet Tip: Get ready to play Rock, Paper, Scissors because there's always a line. But, it's so worth it!
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream 12843 El Camino Real Ste. 108 San Diego, CA 92130 858-925-7308
The brainchild of famed pastry chef Jean-Philippe, this dessert spot will dazzle your eyes while also satiating your sweet tooth. Ordering from an iPad, customers choose from many levels of customization—a meringue base, ice cream, a cake layer, toppings—which are then quickly assembled by a staffer. If that’s not beautiful enough for you, order it “Las Vegas” style and it arrives in a mist of dry ice!
iDessert 1608 India St., #104 San Diego, CA 92101 619-544-1033 Online: idessert.com
Can't make it to Italy this summer? Bobboi Natural Gelato is the next best thing. Known for both its traditional and untraditional gelato flavors, Bobboi gelato is inspired by California yet rooted in the timeless gelato techniques of Italy. Its flavors are made from local, seasonal ingredients and the menu rotates constantly to reflect what’s available and in season. With three locations in San Diego, the shop is a favorite among locals. Choose from classic flavors like stracciatella and pistachio or an unconventional option such as matchatella (matcha and chocolate shards).
Sweet Tip: Try out their newest flavor Life's a Beach for a real summer treat.
You may go in for an ice cream cone, but the Hot Waffle Ice Cream Sandwich is what you'll walk out with. Lighthouse Ice Cream is a family-owned business that serves a variety of flavors with an impressive selection of toppings (from hot fudge to Oreo cookies to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups) and specialty items like sundaes and floats.
Sweet Treat: Bring Fido! The shop is pet-friendly and will even offer your four-legged family member a high-quality protein treat! Just ask for Frosty Paws.
Locals like to claim it's the best ice cream in San Diego. Opened in 1998, MooTime Creamery in Coronado is popular with pretty much everyone that stops by, including celebs like Magic Johnson, Mandy Moore, Jason Alexander and Cuba Gooding Jr. Their goal is to provide the best handcrafted ice cream, yogurt and sorbet in a nostalgic environment, and their 27 flavors are rotated daily for freshness. You can order by the scoop or try their specialty sundaes, cakes and pies.
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream is a small batch shop that makes it their priority to use quality ingredients to create the best ice cream possible. Permanent flavors (or as Stella Jean's likes to call them Always Flavors) range from S’mores to Double Chocolate and Pistachio Matcha. Plus, they offer limited edition or for now flavors like guava cream cheese and banana coffee cake.
Sweet Tip: Check out Sweet Jean's sister company Pop Pie for more delectable desserts.
San Diego / University Heights Flagship 4404 Park Blvd Ste B San Diego, CA 92116 Online: stellajeans.com/
Editor’s note: If you’re vegan, dairy- or gluten-free, most of the shops listed here offer delicious options that you’ll love! Check their online menus to see that you too can enjoy a sweet treat at an ice cream shop, even on an alternative diet.
––Aimee Della Bitta, Michelle Franklin, Beth Shea & Nikki Walsh
Hot days call for cold treats, and there’s no time like the present to swap out your go-to Otter Pops for a new dessert that’s perfect for kids. From delicious frozen cookie dough bites to oat-milk chip ice cream, we’ve found a few new products to infuse a little fun into your llife. Keep reading to see them all.
It's pretty much everyone's dream to have frozen cookie dough ready to pop in the oven for a warm treat. Home Dough totally gets that convenience is key and delivers in the taste category as well. With Home Dough, fresh-baked, better-than-homemade cookies are always just ten minutes away. Choose from Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Toffee, or Molasses Ginger Spice, all made from tried and true, mom-approved recipes and the same simple ingredients you’d find in your cupboard. They even come in gluten-free varieties! We suggest you order up a variety pack and try them today!
$18 for 8 cookie balls, $48 for a 24-ball variety pack. Available here.
Enlightened Sundae Cones
Sundae cones are what summer is made of and Enlightened is here to bring this favorite treat to your home with less sugar than regular cones. You'll get a crunchy cone filled with frozen Green yogurt or light ice cream and topped with nuts and chocolate. A final surprise? The chocolate-filled tip is there for your last bite. Order them online or find them at a store near you.
Killer Creamery's Sammies
courtesy Killer Creamery
For a treat that doesn't have a lot of sugar but tons of taste, we love the new Sammies from Killer Creamery. Offered in chocolate or vanilla ice cream with the classic cookie outside, with only 120 calories, no added sugar and only two to three net carbs, you'll feel just fine having one after dinner!
Available at stores nationwide, $5.99 - $6.99 for six.
Bubbies Vegan Mochi & Cookie Dough Bites
Bubbie's
Two new options from Bubbies will get you starting the summer off right.
The irresistible combination of ice cream wrapped in a decadent chocolate chip cookie dough is easy to eat—and even easier to enjoy! Like all Bubbies products, the Cookie Dough Bites are made with all-natural ingredients, are Certified Gluten-Free, Kosher dairy, no rBST, and Non-GMO!
Those looking to add a vegan treat to their dessert lineup will love these new additions to Bubbies mochi repertoire. You'll find mango, chocolate and strawberry vegan mochi that enrobe the non-dairy frozen dessert in perfectly sweetened mochi dough.
Daiya’s Dessert Bars make for the perfect treat for a hot day. These indulgent, chocolate-dipped, frozen dessert bars are completely plant-based and so tasty, parents will want to keep them for themselves!
If you want indulgent taste without the guilt, Nubocha is here for you. This low-sugar, non-dairy gelato brand was co-founded by famed Italian chocolatier Gianluca Franzoni, and it is reimagining gelato with health and wellness in mind.
Its low-sugar, dairy-free recipes consist of just three main ingredients: premium varietals of nuts or cacao, pure spring water, and allulose, a rare, zero calorie sugar found naturally in foods like raisins, figs and maple syrup. The simplicity of Nubocha’s recipes and its unique use of spring water as a base, allow each thoughtfully sourced ingredient to shine, offering a healthier, flavorful gelato with no added sugar and less than 350 calories per pint.
Beckon Ice Cream’s lactose-free ice cream is the perfect cold dessert for your summer gatherings. They just released perfectly-sized snack cups in flavors vanilla (with rainbow sprinkles in the lid), dark chocolate (with brownie chunks in the lid) and mint chip. These portable cups are a great option to bring in your cooler for your next park picnic.
If you love ice cream but it doesn't necessarily love you, ReThink has you covered. All of ReThink’s ice cream flavors are made with A2/A2 Dairy to be extra digestible. They're diabetic-friendly, Keto, gluten-dree, lactose-free, and made with all-natural ingredients including collagen, prebiotic fiber, and green tea extract for antioxidants.
We sampled the current flavors of Vanilla Supreme, Chocolate Majesty, Mint with Chocolate Flakes, Chocolate with Almond Butter, Coffee Hazelnut, Lemon Poppy Seed, Cardamom Pistachio, Almond with Chocolate Flakes, and Black Cherry Vanilla. Chocolate Majesty stood out as the kid favorite while Lemon Poppy Seed was much loved by the adults.
Attention, your new summer obsession is here! Check out Must Love—a new non-dairy, GMO-free, plant-based ice cream that will be the perfect addition to your freezer stash. Must Love is now available at Sprouts and select Whole Foods stores, with wider distribution ahead! Must Love offers two different bases: bananas and oat milk. The banana base is made with only bananas, coconut milk and dates while the oat milk base with only oat milk, coconut milk and dates. Cashew Cookie Dough is a kid favorite and Choco Choco Chip is for all you chocolate lovers out there.
Coconut Bliss Cups of Joy
If you are looking for a plant-based frozen dessert to add to your freezer this summer, you definitely need to try Coconut Bliss. The brand’s first ever single serve ice cream indulgence,Cups of Joy, are perfect for kids (and their parents) looking for a convenient and delicious plant-based treat. The cups are available in two flavors, Dark Chocolate and Madagascan Vanilla Bean. The four-pack retails for $8.99.
Want a little hands-on fun for your family's dessert? Coconut Bliss’s at-home ice cream machine, theBliss Maker™, brings their convenient plant-based scoops directly to your home. Order up the bundle and you'll also get ice cream mix that's ready to pop in the machine!
N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream
Amazon's #1 ice cream N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream has expanded its vegan line to include four new flavors that you're going to love: Vanilj Bean, Strawbär Kräm, Hazelnöt Fudge and Peanöt Butter Fudge.
Perfect for your summer sundae party, these flavors are joining the line up that tastes and melts just like dairy, but is still lactose and animal-free thanks to Perfect Day technology. Perfect Day’s real milk protein is made without animals, so kids can enjoy the real taste, texture, and nutrition of dairy—but produced sustainably and without the downsides of factory farming, lactose, hormones, or antibiotics. A dessert that you can feel good serving your family!
Your fave Outshine bars are getting some new flavors! Made with fresh milk for that creamy goodness, each bar contains five grams of protein, 25% less sugar than regular frozen dairy bars and four delicious flavor choices. Enjoy Strawberry and Mango, which are made with real fruit, in addition to Chocolate and Coffee, which offers 20mg of caffeine!
Available at retailers nationwide starting Spring of 2021.
Turkey Hill's 2021 Lineup
Get ready to sit down and cool off with Turkey Hill's new line of novelties that include 16 products like Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches, Fruit & Cream Bars and Layered Sundae Cups. With flavors that include Caramel Brownie, Chocolate Cream Pie, Peanut Butter, Choco Mint Chip, Coconut, Orange and Strawberry Lemonade there is something for everyone.
You can find all the new products at retailers nationwide.
So Delicious Dairy Free Light Frozen Desserts
So Delicious Dairy Free has just launched its brand new Light Frozen Desserts! Each pint is less than 330 calories and they are certified gluten-free, vegan action certified and non-GMO Project Verified. Current flavors include Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Cocoa Chip, Mint Chip and Tiramisu.
Available in grocery stores nationwide for a suggested retail price of $5.49 per pint.
Popsicle Fruit Twisters
Popsicle's newest sweet treat combines real fruit and milk. The twisty popsicle has a surprise fruit filling and is just 70 calories each. Enjoy two fresh flavors that include Strawberry, Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl and Peach, Raspberry & Vanilla Swirl.
Talk about the perfect bite! These mochi-covered ice cream bites from Mochidoki are a new favorite summer treat with kid- and parent-approved flavors like vanilla chip, Thai tea, mango and salted caramel. At just 80 calories a piece, they are full of quality, natural and non-GMO ingredients, and are less messy than typical ice cream treats. They are currently available for purchase at their NYC stores and can be shipped to 26 states plus D.C. (with more to come).
Each one of these 3.5 ozs cups is filled with healthy ingredients like chia and flax seeds and organic fruits. There are no artificial flavors, they are dairy and gluten-free and they come frozen, so each one is perfect for a snack at any time. Chocolate and strawberry were our favorite flavors!
What's better than gelato delivered to your front door? New gelato flavors created each month and delivered to your front door! Each month has a theme based on the season, or collaborations or whatever strikes their fancy. Think watermelon, banana split, root beer float and more.
Kids will flip over these Organic Ice Wands featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf from Frozen 2 and the plant-based Organic SuperFruit Freezies that were released from DeeBee's just in time for the summer heat. DeeBee's Organics shelf-stable freezies are made from premium organic fruits with zero added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and are allergen-free of nuts, dairy, fish, wheat and soy. You can feel good serving them every afternoon this summer!
Officially the first oat milk pop available, Chloe’s Pops come in three tasty flavors: Mint Chip, Salted Caramel and Raspberry Chip. All three flavors are dairy-free, plant-based, Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free and made without any artificial ingredients. Also, these oat milk pops are free of the top eight allergens.
Inspired by a coconut macaron, this flavor from Talenti is not just a non-dairy alternative, but it’s got layers of goodness, including real coconuts, chocolate cookies and a non-dairy hot fudge swirl.
Another fun treat from Chloe’s is their Marvel Pops! Inspired by Marvel Universe, these fruit popsicles are made with just three ingredients: fruit juice, cane sugar and water! Perfect for a backyard treat, these new pops are free of the top eight allergens.
If 2020 taught us anything, it was to have a stockpile of healthy snacks for kids ready at home when the hangries strike. Fuel up with these low- or no-sugar store-bought snacks for kids that will boost their brain power and give them the energy they need to play and learn. From brand-new snacks just released in 2021 to healthy snacks we always have in our pantry, read on for the best new store-bought snacks to stock up on now.
Spudsy Sweet Potato Fries
Those misshapen sweet potatoes aren't going to waste! Spudsy take them and upcycles them into a plant-based snack the whole family will love! The brand's Sweet Potato Fries are grain and gluten-free, non-GMO, plant-based and come in three flavors including Hot Fry, Vegan Ranch Fry and Cheese Fry. While you're shopping, be sure to pick up a few of our other faves, cinnamon churro and Bangin' Bar-B-Q sweet potato puffs!
These are not your Corn Nuts of the 90's! Love, Corn products are gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, kosher and come in so many delicious flavors. New this year, Vegan Cheezy makes the perfect, guilt-free snacks for moms and a great addition to school lunches.
Perfect for toddlers, big kids and even busy moms, Yumi's fruit leathers come in mixed berry, mango and strawberry flavors. Kids will get a full serving of fruit and vegetables with no added sugar in each strip!
Don't just eat, feed your brain! Brainiac's new products include Brain Squeezers, Brain Butters and Smart Tubes & Smoothies that pack a proprietary blend of brain nutrients including Omega‑3s and Choline and are Gluten Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, have no added sugars or artificial flavors and are approved by pediatricians. Did we mention they taste great, too?
Get all the things you love about an Everything bagel in a thin, tasty cracker! RW Garcia's delicious snack is organic, verified non-GMO, gluten free, kosher and is made with corn, seeds, garlic and onion.
Find them at local grocers nationwide.
KIND Bar Minis
KIND Minis pack massive taste into 100 calories or less, with choices like Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew and Peanut Butter. Kids will love adding them to their lunchbox rotation and you can feel good that they are getting some good nutrition in at snack time.
Yes, you can still have your tasty cheese balls and eat them too! The Good Crisp just turned your guilty pleasure into a healthy snack with no fillers, artificial flavors, gluten or GMO's. On top of that, they've added Wellmune, which helps support your kiddos immune system.
Make packing that sweet snack a breeze with GoGos squeeZ brand new AlmondBlend Pudding! The plant-based pouch offers 5 grams of protein and 30% less sugar as compared to traditional dairy pudding so no guilt required.
The Famous Amos brand is being reimagined for today’s world with three new cookies. While sticking with its bite-sized shape that people know and love, Famous Amos is shaking things up by introducing three new recipes with premium ingredients from around the world including:
Belgian Chocolate Chip: An elevated classic chocolate chip cookie with authentic Belgian chocolate
Philippine Coconut and White Chocolate Chip: A bite-size variety with coconut from the Philippines
Mediterranean Hazelnut and Chocolate Chip: A bite-size variety with hazelnuts from the Mediterranean
These Lemon Blueberry Bars from Hungry Buddha are the perfect combo of zesty lemon with the sweetness of juicy berries all in one delicious, vegan, plant-powered and allergy-friendly snack bar. These gluten free, Non-GMO bars are packed with 10g of protein and only 2g of sugar, and are made without the use of palm oil, sugar alcohols, dairy or soy. Pick these up at your local Sprouts Market for $2.49.
Catalina Crunch
Catalina Crunch, the makers of delicious keto-friendly cereals and cookies, just released a brand new Crunch Mix that features protein, fiber and specially curated natural ingredients in four delectable flavors: Traditional, Cheddar, Creamy Ranch and Spicy Kick. Each variety is made with the same delicious taste and crunch of your favorite party mixes and features a delicious mix of Catalina Crunch cereal, vibrant seasonings, nuts, chickpea pretzels and (depending on the flavor) cheese crisps. We love to keep these in the car for impromptu park days and hiking trips.
Perfect Bar to the rescue! The new snack size is perfect for kiddos and now comes in Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter. Made with organic peanut butter and organic honey, 20+ organic superfoods and six grams of whole food protein, these petite bars make the ideal lunch or after-school snack.
Get them in the refrigerated sections of Target, Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway and retailers nationwide for $6.99 for an eight count box.
Undercover Snacks
Healthy ingredients… in disguise! Developed by a mom whose two daughters were diagnosed with celiac disease, all Undercover Snacks are made with carefully sourced all-natural, gluten-free, non-GMO, simple ingredients and Rain Forest Alliance Certified chocolate.
Undercover Snacks are made with crispy quinoa, which is naturally gluten-free, packed with protein, fiber and nutrients, and has an incredible crunchy texture. They are made in a dedicated facility that is free of the top ten food allergens. For lunchboxes, tuck one of their single-serve packs in as a treat!
Looking for healthy, allergy-friendly snacks to pack in your kid's backpack or lunchbox that are free from the top 8 allergens? Look no further! Developed by a mom whose children have severe food allergies, Without a Trace offers a mouthwatering variety of plant-based, gluten-free Chewy Granola Bars, Power Bites and Cookies. They are perfect for tucking in lunchboxes or as a grab-n-go snack for everyone in the family.
A sweet, popcorn-based treat without all the extra added sugar? Yes please! Just a 1/2 cup clocks in at 60 calories and 2 grams of sugar thanks to their all-natural sweeteners. Now you can feel good about treating the kids without any of the guilt.
Make snack time fun and educational! Dick and Jane's educational snacks are all-natural, non-GMO and 100% nut-free. Each pack is made with crackers imprinted with learning opportunities like spelling, abbreviations and more. Varieties currently include States & Capitals, Presidents, English & Spanish, Food & Nutrition, Fun & Fitness and Farmers Market.
KRAVE recently introduced a new Zero Sugar Jerky line that marries grass-fed beef with all the flavor and none of the sugar. Your kids will love the two new flavors: Sonoma Style BBQ and Southwest Hatch Chile. KRAVE Zero Sugar Jerky perfects bold flavor and tender texture for a snack that delivers on taste and nutrition—both 100% grass-fed beef jerky flavors have 12g of protein, 0g of sugar and only 1.5g of fat per serving.
KRAVE Zero Sugar Jerky is available now in select CVS stores nationwide and online at kravejerky.com, with availability in Meijer, Kroger and on Amazon coming soon.
Belgian Boys
Belgian Boys make delicious non-GMO European sweets and you're going to want to stock up on them for your next road trip. Kids will especially love the speculoos cookies that come in the too-cute mustache shape and the Belgian chocolate cookie bars (hide these, you'll want them for yourself). Try their frozen breakfast items like waffles and bite-sized pancakes for on-the-go munching.
Up your protein game this year with these in your backpack. Perfect for a day at the beach or a hiking adventure, these jerky bars are the savory treat your crew needs. Hot Honey is our favorite with its sweet kick. Tender Chicken Bars also come in teriyaki and original flavors.
Plant-based eaters, listen up! Pure Batch has grab-and-go cookie batches that include four types of truffles, a protein brownie and refrigerated-to-eat cookies. You'll love knowing that you are feeding your body with something nutritious while also enjoying a sweet treat.
2Betties creates dairy-free, nutrient-dense mini donuts with no refined sugars. We love them for a hiking treat to motivate the kids to keep going! They are currently offered in six delicious flavors: Chocolate Chunk, Maple Cinnamon, Sweet Almond, Mocha Chip, Vanilla Bean, and Pumpkin Spice. Hide the wrapper and your guests will think you’re an expert donut maker.
Developed by parents, DINO BARS are the healthy, travel-friendly bar that your kids will love eating. They are wrapped in edible paper and available in three fun flavors: strawberry, blueberry, and mango. Parents will love that they are non-GMO, USDA certified organic and free from nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy.
Horizon Organic's Yogurt Pouches and Cultured Dairy Smoothies
Horizon Organic's newest offerings from their Growing Years line include a yummy dairy smoothie and yogurt pouches. The dairy smoothie comes in a small container that's perfect for school lunches or a quick snack. We also love that these new snacks were developed with the help of a pediatrician, so you'll know your kids are getting great nutrition.
Sink your teeth into RIND’s new Skin-In Dried Fruit snacks! The chewy, tasty snacks have no added sugar and 4-6g of fiber per serving. Because the skin is still on, kiddos will get more vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber than other dried fruit brands. Not only that, they are non-GMO project verified, Kosher certified, allergen-friendly and gluten-free. We love all the flavors that include Tropical Blend, Straw-Peary, Orchard, Tangy Kiwi, Coco-Melon and Coconut Crisps.
Enjoying lentils never tasted so good! Perfect to enjoy by the handful or tossed on a salad, these salty snacks pack plant-based protein, are gluten-free and have vegan options. Choose from Pink Himalayan Salt, Barbeque, Falafel and Cinnamon Sugar.
Quinn is known for making crazy delicious and totally craveable pretzels and microwave popcorn using only 100% REAL, simple ingredients and kicking artificial ingredients and unpronounceables to the curb. We love the maple almond butter filled pretzels for family hikes and the whole grain sea salt pretzel sticks for school lunches.
For on-the-go snacking that you can count on to be free of junk, look to Supernola. These superfood clusters come in Triple Berry Vanilla, Dragon Fruit Lemon Zest, Honey Sweet Goji, Banana Nut Crunch, and Dark Chocolate Nut Crunch. Supernola fits many specialty diets including Paleo, Keto (4 flavors), Vegan (4 flavors), and is naturally dairy, gluten, grain, peanut and refined sugar-free.
Chips made out of cactus? Just say YES to Tia Lupita! These grain-free chips come in flavors like sea salt (our favorite), salsa verde, hot sauce, and chipotle, you'll definitely find one that you love.
The world's first Greek yogurt bar wrapped in chocolate has two new flavors! Delicious enough to pass for dessert, the Coconut and Berry Açaí treats are just 100 calories, contain one gram of sugar and pack eight grams of protein.
The two newest flavors are available exclusively at Whole Foods and you can find the others by visiting cliosnacks.com.
Raisels Pick-Your-Mix
Raisels, the creators of the fun-flavored Golden Raisins, has just launched the perfect way to get the flavors you want sent right to your door. The new Pick-Your-Mix option will allow you to mix-and-match delicious Raisel packs to create a perfect, custom Raisels box. Choose from among 7 options to bring the sweet, sour and slightly-spicy Raisel flavors to you. We love these as an alternative for kids who love sour candies—they won't know they're really eating fruit!
Bobo's Almond Brownie Oat Bars and Bites
Bobo's is back with new whole grain snacks! Get ready to let kiddos sink their teeth into gluten-free whole grain oats, cocoa, chocolate chips and chocolate almond butter in the new almond brownie oat bars and bites. Not only that, choose from brand new strawberry and apple stuff'd oat bites for a fruity snack that keeps you full.
Solely's new Organic Whole Fruit Gummies contain only two or three ingredients, real whole fruit and a little Vitamin C. Every pouch offers 0.7 ounces of fruit, is only 60-70 calories and has no added sugar, preservatives, gelatins, colors, or gums. They're also USDA organic, Kosher, and Non-GMO verified. Choose from Organic Mango and Organic Mango & Orange flavors!
Available exclusively at Whole Foods Market.
LesserEvil Lil' Puffs
We'll just come out and say it: these new snacks from LesserEvil are so delicious you'll want to buy one bag for them, and one bag for you. The brand-new line includes flavors like Veggie Blend, Sweet Potato Apple, Non-Dairy Cheddar and Strawberry Beet. The puffs, which are in fun star-like shapes, use organic coconut oil and offer zero grams of sugar. They're certified USDA organic, vegan, non-GMO project verified, grain-free and gluten-free. The tasty snacks are best for toddlers 12 months and older.
We love these refrigerated bars for on-the-go snacking as they come in kid-friendly flavors like Almond Butter, Dark Chocolate Chip Almond Butter and Honey Almond Butter. Pop them in your purse for a protein-rich, plant-based snack that you can feel good about serving. With 10g of protein per bar, you can definitely keep the hangries away.
We love this delicious line of tender chicken snacks made from real, wholesome ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken and various spices and we think you will too. They’re available in three flavors: Original, Teriyaki, and Hot Honey and they're the perfect option for hikes or to keep in your purse for when the hangries hit. High in protein, they can definitely get you through a playdate at the park that ran through lunchtime.
Give their lunches a colorful boost with Butterfly's brand-new nut butter that comes in two unique colors and flavors: Blue Dream and Pink Panther. Each is a unique mix of walnut, cashews, macadamia and MCT oil. The color comes from pitaya (dragon fruit) and blue spirulina. Both new flavors are organic, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free.
If your babe is a puff fanatic turn to the brand-new grain-free puffs from Serenity Kids. With zero grams of sugar and no fillers like rice and grains, Serenity Kids leads with cassava root and real veggies. Choose from flavors like Carrot & Beet with Olive Oil, Broccoli & Spinach with Bone Broth, Tomato & Mushroom with Bone Broth and Sweet Pepper & Basil with Olive Oil. The entire line is non-GMO and USDA Organic certified.
This uber-fresh plant-based food company gets a 10,000/1000 rating from our editors, which basically means these protein bars are beyond tasty! Handcraft and plant-based, Urban Remedy's bars are low in sugar, high in protein and rich in healthy fats. Currently, they are available in Cacao, Matcha and Superfood Chaga flavors.
Ditch your traditional sandwich cookies that are loaded with sugar for these low-carb treats that taste delicious! Packed with 4g plant protein, 2g sugar and only 5g net carbs. 100% plant-based, nothing artificial, great macros and now available in four flavors: Chocolate Vanilla, Chocolate Mint, Vanilla Crème and Peanut Butter.
These delicious mochi ice cream bites are available in individually-wrapped packaging and are gluten free and non-GMO. Made with all-natural ingredients, they are a tasty, no-mess, perfectly portioned treat everyone will enjoy. The new single serve mochi are available in varieties including Vegan Chocolate, Vegan Strawberry, and (non-vegan) Green Tea, Triple Chocolate, Cookie Dough Bites and more at the self-serve freezers in Whole Foods and other grocery stores nationwide!
CLIF Kid Zbars: Cinnamon Roll
Our tots adore Zbars (and we do, too), which is why we're eager to let you know about CLIF Kid's brand new flavor: cinnamon roll. It's packed with whole grain oats and swirls of cinnamon, and it tastes just like your fave doughy cinnamon rolls (but without the gooey, sticky mess).
Our kids can't get enough of Nature's Bakery fig bars, which means this brand has set the bar high for kids (and adult) snacks. Good news: Nature Bakery's brand-new soft-baked bars are just as delicious as their beloved fig bars. The new snack comes in two flavors: Chocolate Oat and Banana Chocolate Chip. Both flavors feature organic whole grains, fruits and veggies with 9 grams of whole grains, fruits, veggies and chocolate chips. They're free of high fructose corn syrup and are nut-, dairy- and soy-free. Our toddler loved the bar and we thought that it was soft enough to give to our 11 month old who devoured it as well.
Launched in early 2020, Mavericks Snacks is new to the snacking game. But that doesn't mean they're going unnoticed. Mavericks Snacks was recently voted "Best New Healthy School Snack" and are winning kids (and parents) over with their delicious Cookiez and Crackerz. Their Cookiez have 40% less sugar than the leading kids cookie and their Crackerz boast 8 grams of whole grains. All snacks are non-GMO and peanut-free.
This keto-friendly snack brand strives to make OG-tasting products in a healthier way. Each product is gluten-free, grain-free, made with clean ingredients and has no added sugar. Shop seven delicious products for 2021 that include Caramel Clusters, Salted Caramel Mini Cookies and Vanilla Shortbread Mini Cookies.
A great on-the-go snack, GOOD GOOD's Krunchy Keto Bars taste like a dessert. Packed with nutrients, each bar is loaded with eight to 13 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and has no added sugar. Choose from Raspberry Cheesecake and Caramel Friendly flavors in this snack that is great for parents and kiddos!
We all know how hard it is to get kids to eat healthy—the constant battle over sugar and veggies never ends. That's why ICONIC® Kids was created. It's a delicious kid’s drink with 0g of added sugar, a full serving of daily organic vegetables, Vitamin D3, and a taste that will trick kids into thinking it’s dessert. Try the sample pack and you'll get two of each of these flavors: Fruity Fiesta (tastes like the milk leftover from a bowl of Fruit Loops), Chocolate Carnival (as decadent as a sliver of rich dark chocolate cake) and Vanilla Vacay (tastes JUST like a vanilla milkshake).
Gluten-free and plant based, Without a Trace's Power Bites are tasty as can be. The allergen-friendly bites are made with real ingredients and are free from chemicals, fillers, are non-GMO and the Big 8, plus sesame. Enjoy these fork-free morsels in Red Raspberry and Cinna-Monster.
Snacking Avocado is a uniquely light and crispy clean-ingredient snack made with slices of real Hass avocados that are freeze-dried and simply seasoned with sea salt and spices. Available in three savory flavors, including Sea Salt, Sea Salt Lime and Roasted Chipotle, the nutritious new line is vegan, keto, gluten-free, Non-GMO, high-fiber and sugar free.
Addicted to Thin Mints but looking for a better-for-you option? Check this out! Kate's Real Food just launched their newest all-natural energy bar flavor, Dark Chocolate Mint, and you're going to love it. Like all Kate’s Real Food products, the Mint Bar is loaded with tasty USDA-certified organic ingredients, including cool peppermint extract, smooth dark chocolate, natural cacao powder, creamy peanut butter and certified gluten-free oats. It also includes organic, dried bits of cacao beans, adding texture to the bar with chocolate in a pure, unaltered form.
For a breakfast or on-the-go snack you can feel good about, we love The Soulfull Project's new granola. Made with steel-cut oats, brown rice crisps and puffed quinoa, your kids will love the "no junk" flavors of maple pecan, toasted coconut and dark chocolate cherry. You'll feel good knowing that for every serving of a Soulfull Project item that is purchased, one is donated to a food bank in that same region.
Bubba's Fine Foods Sweet & Savory Nut Mixes
These brand-new nut mixes from Bubba’s Fine foods come in six different flavors, three savory, and three sweet. Each one is filled with real food ingredients, and pack a whopping seven grams of protein. The 1.2oz serving size makes this an easy snack for busy parents and kids alike. And, if you’re trying to eat a more keto-focused diet, these nut mixes also only have three grams of net carbs per serving, too!
Clio has launched a new less-sugar Greek yogurt bar in two flavors, peach and mixed berry. With only one gram of sugar and eight grams of protein, this is a sweet treat you can feel good about sharing with the kids.
You know and love KIND bars for their low-sugar combo of nuts, dark chocolate, salt and much more. Now, they've just launched their second-edition EQUALITY bar. While the bar itself is the favorite Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Nut, but the new wrapper is custom designed by a Black female artist, and it represents a world that’s beautifully diverse, inclusive and equitable.
Ditch the sugary sports drink and hydrate with Greater Than instead. With new flavors that include Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Clementine, this electrolyte drink is non-GMO, gluten and dairy free, 100 percent vegan, organic and paleo friendly. It's perfect for busy kids and parents on the go!
We’re sending some special teal love and sharing some of our favorite food allergy recipe bloggers. See our favorite 40 bloggers and our favorite recipes, from eggless cheesecake to a dairy-free version of the famous Levain Chocolate Chip Cookie.
29. The Zestfull Favorite Recipe: Vegan Chai Recipes Always Free From: Peanut, Tree Nut, Sesame. We try to provide alternatives for other allergens and gluten-free recipes too.
35. Food Allergy P.I. Favorite Recipe: Chocolate Moon Cake Recipes Always Free From: Peanut, Fin Fish, Shellfish, Gluten. Can often be made Top 9 free through substitutions and alternatives
Spokin is a modern platform and app connecting people managing food allergies to resources including food, restaurants, hotels and more. Users have personalized experiences based on allergies & location. With 55,000+ reviews across 79 countries, Spokin helps the allergy community share and connect. The Spokin iOS app is free on iTunes.
They’re sour…then they’re sweet…and they’re only available for the next two weeks! Krispy Kreme just launched Lemonade Glazed Donuts in four fresh squeezed flavors and they’re (almost) too pretty too eat.
Riffing off the classic thirst-quenching drink, these donuts give you options for your next run. Lemonade Glaze is the original glaze donut with a citrusy twist. It also comes in a Lemon Kreme filled version! Pink Lemonade Cake is topped with lemon buttercream and pink sugar. And Strawberry Lemonade has a strawberry topping with a delicious lemon icing swirl.
If you want to try them all, Krispy Kreme is offering a Lemonade Lover’s Dozen with three of each flavor. Need a new drink? The company also just launched Strawberry, Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade Chillers that are guaranteed to refresh (and maybe give you a brain freeze).
