Get ready to bid sunny days and beachy vibes adieu because Labor Day – the unofficial end of summer – has arrived! And there’s no better way to squeeze out the last drops of sunshine than with a fun, going away party.
So let’s give summer a sweet send off with a Labor Day Bake Off. Here are 5 delicious treats for a sweet end to summer.
Cue the confetti: it’s bakeoff time!
1. Sunkissed Fruit Pops
Kickstart the bakeoff with a burst of fruity goodness. Blend together a medley of ripe strawberries, juicy watermelon, tangy oranges, and a squeeze of lemon. Add a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch and pour the mixture into popsicle molds. Top off with sliced kiwi or berries and pop them in the freezer for refreshing and vibrant fruit pops.
These icy treats are not only delicious but packed with vitamins and antioxidants. The citrus fruits are great for kiddos with seasonal allergies, and the juicy fruits are a yummy, refreshing treat – perfect for a summer send-off.
2. Mini Yogurt Parfait Cups
A layered dessert invites multiple textures and tastes that are delightful to our eyes and taste buds! Get extra festive with a DIY Parfait Bar where your kids can do all the work (and mom and dad can get some much-needed time off . . if only for a few, precious minutes)
Have your kiddos create their parfait masterpieces by grabbing small cups, layering creamy Greek yogurt, topping with fresh mixed berries, and adding a sprinkle of granola for crunch.
The berries provide our immune systems with yummy nutrients while the yogurt gives little tummies the probiotics it craves.
3. Berrylicious Oat Bars
Indulge in the goodness of whole grains and berries with these scrumptious oat bars. Start by mixing 2 cups of rolled oats and a handful of mixed berries.
Next, in a small pan, heat ½ cup of honey, 3 tablespoons of butter, and ¼ cup of brown sugar – this creates the “glue” to keep your granola bar together.
Combine the honey mixture and oats, press into a baking dish, and pop into the fridge for 2 hours. Once ready, slice into snack-size delicious oat bars for a perfect on-the-go or lunchbox treat!
With fiber from oats and the antioxidant power of berries, these bars are a tasty way to celebrate summer's finale while keeping nutrition in check.
And for an extra healthy hack, make your own brown sugar by mixing 1 tablespoon of molasses with 1 cup of monk fruit – nature’s sweetener.
4. Frozen Banana Pops
We’re giving this kid-favorite a frosty makeover! Frozen Banana Pops are easy to make and may become your kiddos new favorite treat. Start by cutting bananas in half and inserting a popsicle stick into each slice. Toss them on a parchment-covered baking sheet and freeze.
Once your bananas are frozen, dip them in yogurt and roll in your toppings – chopped nuts, shredded coconut, sprinkles, and mini chocolate chips are a few favorites. Lay your pops back on the backing sheet and drizzle with honey, peanut butter, or anything else in your little one’s imagination. Toss them back in the freezer and voilà! You've got a sweet treat that sneaks in extra potassium.
5. Watermelon Lollipops
You can’t have a summer send-off without the official fruit of sunny days: watermelon! But rather than chomping down on a big slice (which you can totally still do!), we’re mixing it up with watermelon lollipops.
Start by slicing up a juicy watermelon into triangles, hearts, or other fun shapes. Next, insert a stick (lollipop or popsicle) into each slice. And for the fun part, let your kiddos dip their “lollipop” into Greek yogurt for a creamy topping.
This fresh and fruity treat boosts those Vitamin C levels while keeping your kiddos hydrated – much needed during these last sizzling days of summer.
Happy Labor Day!
This weekend is a reminder of the importance of rest – rest from the hustle and bustle of work, back-to-school, and day-to-day routines. We hope your Labor Day Weekend is filled with joy, love, and fun memories with your little ones. Here's to a sweet end to summer and a nourishing start to fall.