12 healthier snack ideas to satisfy your 3pm cravings

Step away from the empty calories. The next time that afternoon snack attack hits, reach for these nutritious, wholesome treats instead.

As the clock strikes 3PM, it’s a familiar signal for many of us: the siren call of the snack cupboard, the irresistible pull of that vending machine, or the relentless hankering for something sweet or savoury.

The afternoon slump can strike hard, leaving us searching for a quick energy boost to power through the rest of the day.

Move away from the empty-calorie pitfalls.

When it comes to satisfying cravings in a healthy way, look for nutritionally dense foods that are packed with fibre, protein, healthy fats or complex carbohydrates to help stabilise blood sugar while satiating your hunger.

Best healthy snacks to satisfy your hunger

Whether you’re craving a moreish 3pm pick-me-up, a sweet treat, or something savoury to snack on, these are 12 healthier options to satisfy your afternoon snack attack.

Gluten-free spinach, feta, cherry tomato and dill muffins

Enjoy the age-old combination of cheese and veg in this recipe filled with the lovely tanginess of feta, accompanied by a side of spinach’s earthy flavour.

Protein smoothie with walnuts and berries

This tasty nutrient-packed smoothie is a great option for breakfast on the go.

And because it’s high in protein, it will help keep you feeling full for longer.

Peanut butter bliss balls

These snack balls will surely bring bliss to all peanut butter lovers.

Plus they are so easy to make, even the kids can help.

Quick ricotta parcels

These vegetarian parcels are surprisingly straightforward to make and are a versatile meal or snack.

Plus ricotta is a great source of calcium, vitamin A and zinc.

Easy no-bake energy protein balls

These no-bake protein balls make a great guilt-free snack.

With no oven needed, they’re a great one to involve the kids in.

Vegetables with cottage cheese dip 

This effortless, high-protein snack is ideal if you’re craving a healthy nibble.

Apricot and date fruit bars

These bars are ideal for popping in the lunchbox as a healthy snack. Dried apricots are energy dense, which is perfect for active kids at school.

Healthy muesli bars

These popular snacks are portable, convenient, cost-effective and can even be frozen for later.

Rolled oats are packed with fibre and are high in protein.

Sugar-free lemon and chia cookies

This is the guilt-free snack you’ve been searching for.

With a pop of citrus and superfood chia seeds, these vegan and sugar-free cookies are sure to be popular with kids and adults alike.

Hemp and Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Impress family and friends with a batch of these no-bake protein bars.

The hemp seeds are nutritious, rich in healthy fats, protein and minerals.

Low Carb ‘Keto’ Brownies with Mixed Berries

Try these low carb, super fudgy brownies for a guilt-free keto treat.

Plus they’re topped with berries, which are loaded with antioxidants, high in fibre and Vitamin C.

Choco Cookies with Nuts and Seeds

Loaded with protein-rich peanut butter, chia and flaxseeds, these deliciously crunchy cookies will give you an almost guilt-free afternoon pick-me-up.

Written by Tianna Nadalin.