1. Red, White, & Blue Fruit Skewers
Safe, no-cook snacks reduce kitchen traffic and minimize the risk of burns or cross-contamination.
Ingredients:
- Strawberries (halved)
- Bananas (sliced into thick rounds)
- Blueberries
- Wooden skewers
Instructions:
- Alternate threading strawberries, bananas, and blueberries onto skewers.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Notes:
Raspberries and mini marshmallows could also be used to represent the red and white.
2. Patriotic Snack Mix
Great for keeping kids (and adults) happy between meals, and mess-free outdoors.
Ingredients:
- Mini pretzels
- Red and blue M&Ms
- Yogurt-covered raisins
- Popcorn
- Optional: star-shaped cereal or mini marshmallows
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and toss.
- Portion into festive paper cups for easy grab-and-go snacking.
Notes:
Add a little white chocolate drizzle for extra flair.
3. No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Cups
No oven required means a cooler kitchen—and less fire risk while you’re entertaining outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- Fresh blueberries & raspberries
Instructions:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with butter and press into the bottom of small cups or jars.
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
- Spoon into cups, then top with berries.
Notes:
Make these the night before for a stress-free dessert.