Church snacks may not be the main event on Sundays. But they never hurt! Whether you’re planning coffee-hour fellowship for adults, Sunday school or VBS for children, or gatherings for youth, families or small groups, yummy church snacks are always a hit.
Because of food allergies and health considerations, refreshments take some thought and planning. Policies vary at churches and children’s ministries. Some ban snacks altogether, while others require parents to bring their own.
Before feeding kids, ask parents or guardians about any allergies or sensitivities, whether to peanuts, dairy, gluten or food dyes. That way, Sunday school teachers, nursery workers and church-camp staff can make adjustments and provide alternatives for children.
Other considerations with church snacks include cost, messiness, cleanup, shelf life and nutritional value. Finger foods tend to work well. And it’s best to buy in bulk, whenever possible. As with life, variety is the “spice” of church snack ideas. So mix up the menu frequently!
Recruit a foodie from the church or children’s ministry to head up a committee for church snacks. Also request donations of snacks, making regular announcements about your needs.
For a major event such as vacation Bible school, display posterboard containing sticky notes, with one food item listed on each note. Volunteers can select a note or two, purchase the item, and then drop off food in the church kitchen or refrigerator.
Ideas abound for church snacks! Here’s a hearty list to spark your creativity:
42 Church Snacks for Children, Youth and Adults
1. Animal crackers
These work well for a variety of themed Sunday school Bible lessons, including Noah’s Ark.
2. Popcorn (not for toddlers or preschoolers)
3. Cheese cubes
4. Pretzels
5. Baby carrots and hummus
6. Fish-shaped crackers
With all the fish-themed stories in the Old and New Testaments, Sunday school teachers will be swimming in ideas for this snack.
7. Gelatin or pudding (gluten-free options are available)
8. Sliced fruit (avoid grapes for toddlers and preschoolers)
Serve a variety of fruit at a Bible study that focuses on the fruit of the Spirit.
9. Bagels and cream cheese
10. Bell pepper strips and ranch dip
11. Mini sandwiches
12. Sub sandwiches
Hoagies are a great alternative to the old youth group standby of pizza!
