Despite our best efforts, getting kids to eat nutritious foods isn’t always easy. We all want them to fuel their growing bodies with the best ingredients, but let’s face it—convincing them to eat a plate full of veggies is not the easiest task. We have to really be creative to get those greens into our kids. Luckily, CHEERi makes it effortless to sneak in 17 superfoods without them even realizing it!
The best part about CHEERi is kids think it’s chocolate. Its rich, chocolatey flavor hides the taste of greens so well that our little ones feel like they’re enjoying a healthy kids dessert instead of a nutrient-packed superfood blend. And the best part? There are endless fun and creative ways to get kids to eat healthy with CHEERi.
1. Healthy Hot Chocolate
Kids are always asking for hot cocoa which makes most parents cringe because of the massive amounts of sugar – not to mention low quality chocolate and additives. Here’s a cozy and comforting way to enjoy CHEERi hot:
Instructions:
- Heat 1 cup of almond milk (or preferred milk) until hot.
- Stir in 1 scoop of CHEERi.
- Add 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar, a low-glycemic sweetener that won’t spike blood sugar like refined white sugar.
- Stir well and enjoy! (Make sure it cools a little before your kids start sippin’)
Why It’s Great:
- Tastes like real hot cocoa but packed with superfoods.
- Coconut sugar is lower on the glycemic index, meaning fewer energy crashes. Plus, avoiding white, refined sugar is so important for kids. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to short-term behavioral issues and long-term health risks that affect kids' growth, energy levels, and overall well-being.
- Perfect for cold mornings or a post-dinner treat instead of sugary treats right before bed.
2. Chocolate Milk
Our kids have enough chocolate milk at school – which, yes, is loaded with unhealthy, refined sugar. Here’s a classic, refreshing favorite with a nutritious twist:
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with almond milk (or your favorite milk).
- Add 1 scoop of CHEERi and mix well.
- Pour over ice and serve with a straw in a cup.
- Optional: Add a little maple syrup for extra sweetness and stir well.
Why It’s Great:
- Quick, easy, and kid-approved! They have ZERO idea they are eating 17 Superfoods.
- Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with minerals like zinc and manganese.
- A perfect on-the-go drink.
3. No-Bake Chocolate Energy Bites
Kid snacks pack a ton of sugar or are processed with unhealthy ingredients many of the times. These little bites are packed with protein and superfoods for an anytime snack that is a much better choice:
Instructions:
- Mix 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, 1 scoop of CHEERi, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Roll into small balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Enjoy as a grab-and-go snack!
Why It’s Great:
- No baking required!
- Perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks. (make sure your classroom allows peanuts)
- Packed with healthy fats and protein – along with the 17 Superfoods from CHEERi.
4. Chocolate Milkshake
Milkshakes are so delicious, yet packed with tummy-irritating dairy or additives – not to mention the mega sugar amount. Here’s a creamy, dairy-free shake that tastes just like a chocolate: dessert!
Instructions:
- Blend 9 ice cubes, 1 cup almond or oat milk, 1 scoop of CHEERi, and 1/2 a frozen banana until smooth.
- Add 2 teaspoons of coconut sugar if extra sweetness is desired (the banana naturally sweetens it!).
- Serve in a tall glass and enjoy!
Why It’s Great:
- Creamy and decadent like a real milkshake.
- Packed with superfoods and natural sweetness.
- Great for breakfast or an afternoon snack!
5. Chocolate Pancake Drizzle
So many kids love Nutella or other “Hazelnut” spreads. Sounds healthy doesn’t it? Nutella is marketed as a hazelnut spread, but its main ingredients tell a different story. While it may taste delicious, Nutella is loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives that make it far from a healthy choice—especially for kids. Instead, make pancakes extra delicious with a CHEERi chocolate syrup:
Instructions:
- Mix 1 scoop of CHEERi with 2-3 tablespoons of warm almond milk until smooth.
- Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a healthy chocolate topping.
- Add a sprinkle of coconut flakes or crushed nuts for extra texture.
Why It’s Great:
- A fun way to sneak in superfoods.
- Turns an ordinary breakfast into something extra special.
- Keeps unhealthy hazelnut spreads off yoru kids’ plates. A two-tablespoon serving contains 21 grams of sugar, which is about 5 teaspoons—more sugar than many candy bars. Remember, high sugar intake contributes to energy crashes, mood swings, cavities, obesity, and increased diabetes risk.
6. Chocolate Yogurt Parfait
My kids love yogurt – but again, yogurts can be a healthy food or a very unhealthy food. Always look at the added sugar. Here’s a great way to dress up low sugar, Greek yogurt for kids - a creamy, protein-packed snack that kids will love:
Instructions:
- Mix 1 scoop of CHEERi into 1 cup of Greek yogurt.
- Layer with raspberries or strawberries, bananas, and a drizzle of honey or agave.
- Enjoy with a spoon for a nutritious dessert or snack.
Why It’s Great:
- Packed with protein for growing kids.
- Tastes like chocolate pudding!
- Great for breakfast or an after-school treat.
7. Healthy Chocolate Pudding
Imagine having chocolate pudding anytime and not having to eat any dairy or sugar. Check out this creamy, rich chocolate pudding packed with superfoods:
Instructions:
· In a blender, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1 scoop of CHEERi, 1/4 cup almond milk, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup.
· Blend until smooth and creamy.
· Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Why It’s Great:
· Creamy, chocolatey, and kid-approved!
· Avocados provide healthy fats for brain development.
· A nutritious alternative to store-bought puddings filled with sugar and additives.
8. Frozen Chocolate Banana Pops
A refreshing, healthy kid-friendly frozen treat!
Instructions:
- Slice bananas in half and insert a popsicle stick.
- Dip in melted coconut oil mixed with 1 scoop of CHEERi.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours and enjoy!
Why It’s Great:
- Naturally sweet and fun to eat!
- Great for warm days instead of popsicles with chemical dyes and additives.
- Packed with potassium and superfoods.
With CHEERi, getting kids to eat their superfoods has never been easier—or tastier! Whether it’s a hot chocolate on a chilly morning, a refreshing chocolate milkshake, or a sneaky superfood drizzle over pancakes, CHEERi makes every sip and bite a nutrient-packed treat kids will love. Try these creative ideas so you are not left wondering how to make healthy eating fun.
Written by CHEERi Collaborator, Tasha Zell (mom of 3)