Whether you are in the mood for something salty or sweet, these 11 warm snacks for cold days are both comforting and nutritious!
It’s getting cooold here in Cville.
From November to February, I have our gas fireplace going several hours of the day. (And I love a quick trip to the gym just to go to the sauna!)
And when I’m already frigid and fighting cold toes, the last thing I want when I’m hungry for a snack is something cold from the fridge.
Many snacks are cold or room temperature by nature: crackers and cheese, fruit and yogurt, smoothies, granola bars, chips and salsa.
While these are all tasty, none of them warm up the core. (Unless your salsa is really hot and spicy!)
Similar to how to the thought of a hot cup of coffee gets me out of bed on a January morning, a warm snack or beverage can raise your body temperature from the inside out.
Healthy snacking
Whenever I’m choosing a snack, I always try to get a little protein, carbohydrate, and fat into the serving. Ideally the snack includes all 3.
Bonus points if it also has a fruit or vegetable and some fiber.
Focusing on this balance ensures satiety and a lower glycemic index, meaning the snack lasts longer.
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It’s also the season for game day gatherings.
When I think of winter weekends, I think of warm dips made in the crockpot and bite-size poppers to enjoy during the basketball or football game. I tossed a few of those ideas in here as well!
Move over smoothies. Here are ideas for warm, healthy snack choices that you can enjoy on a chilly winter day.
11 Warm Snacks For Cold Days
1. Baked Oatmeal
You knew I was going to say oatmeal, right?!
When I worked in an office, I often had an instant oatmeal packet cooked in the microwave for afternoon snack (with cinnamon on top)!
These cinnamon raisin baked oatmeal muffins are baked in a single serving muffin cup and make the perfect single-serving snack!
2. Soft Cinnamon Apples
These soft cinnamon apples have just two ingredients and are ready in 30 minutes in a rice cooker.
They turn a plethora of crispy apples into bite-size pieces that taste like apple pie filling!
Serve them warm with a few scoops of Greek yogurt.
3. Instant Pot Muffins
These Instant Pot muffins with banana and chocolate chunks are ready in minutes and come out oozing with chocolate!
Store in the freezer and then pop into the microwave for a few seconds to have a melt-in-your-mouth muffin in less than a minute.
You also can make them in an oven – you’ll just have to adjust the bake time.
4. Wholesome Cookies
If you’re looking for a cookie packed with nutrition, look no further than these Super Oatmeal Cookies.
Baked with carrots, oats, apple, and pumpkin, they are great for breakfast or a warm snack.
This recipe for Kate’s Cookies is one of my favorites as well.
5. Homemade Hot Chocolate
This healthy hot chocolate from the Detoxinista is a delicious alternative to the popular powdered versions. It calls for only 4 ingredients and takes just about 5 minutes to prepare.
Who doesn’t love a cup of hot cocoa after a snow day or to enjoy by a crackling fire?
6. Banana Bread
Who doesn’t love a thick slice of warm banana bread?
Make a loaf, slice, then store in the freezer. When you’re ready for a warm snack, pop a piece in the toaster then slather with butter.
Try this healthy banana bread recipe made with white whole wheat flour, ripe bananas, all-natural sweeteners, and coconut oil.
7. Nutty Granola
This homemade nutty granola recipe is packed with nuts, seeds, and coconut and is made without oats, so it’s gluten free. Almond meal, honey, and coconut oil bind it together.
And the salty….!
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip via Happy Healthy Mama
The king of all game day recipes: Spinach Artichoke Dip! This healthy spinach artichoke dip is lightened up but not lacking in flavor or creaminess.
It’s the ultimate comfort food! Serve with pita chips.
9. Bone Broth Latte via Cotter Crunch
If you’re caught off guard by bone broth and latte in the same sentence, this hot drink is the ultimate belly warmer.
Full to the brim with nutritional benefits – collagen, antioxidants, and healthy fats – a mug of bone broth will warm you up from your core.
Try this healing bone broth latte recipe – it’s incredibly easy to make!
10. Baked Nuts via The Big Man’s World
Designed to be reheated in the microwave or stovetop before serving, these spiced nuts served warm are perfect to munch on while curled up on the couch.
11. Loaded Potato Skins via Love and Lemons
Loaded potato skins are perfect for a party.
Try this vegan version with black beans or turn up the heat with chili-stuffed sweet potato skins. Both are crowd pleasers!
What are your favorite go-to snacks for a cold day?
Denise says
I’ve been enjoying some lovely flavored hot cocoa mixes from Target, but really wanted to start making my own to lower the sugar content. I’m so excited to try this recipe! I’m going to add a drop of peppermint too. Thanks for these great ideas!
Kori says
Great suggestions! I need to step-up my snack game. We are tired of similar bars and sweeter snacks, so these homemade baked goods and savory options sound fabulous.
K says
Toast and PB!
Kat says
Agreed! It’s a classic!!! <3
Sandy says
I love this! Thank you!