These bite-size dough snacks are the kind of treat kids ask for again and again. They’re soft, slightly sweet, and easy to customize with mix-ins you already have at home. You can make them in one bowl, roll them into cheerful little balls, and bake them in less than 15 minutes.

They’re great for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a quick weekend project. Best of all, they’re made with simple ingredients and no frying, so you can feel good about them.

What Makes This Special

• Quick and simple: One bowl, no special equipment, and ready fast.
• Kid-approved texture: Soft, tender bites that aren’t crumbly or messy.
• Customizable: Add chocolate chips, berries, or cinnamon sugar—whatever your kids like.
• Lunchbox-friendly: Stays soft and tasty even after a few hours.
• Less sugar: Lightly sweetened and made with pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional, for extra fiber; use more all-purpose if you prefer)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy), plus 1–2 tablespoons if needed
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter or neutral oil
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional mix-ins (choose 1–2): 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/3 cup finely chopped strawberries, 1/3 cup raisins, or 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Optional topping: 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, applesauce, milk, melted butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.Stir gently with a spatula until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems dry, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little flour.
5. Fold in your chosen mix-ins, if using.For fresh fruit, pat it dry first so the dough doesn’t get soggy.
6. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into small balls with clean, lightly oiled hands. Place on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
7. Optional: Sprinkle lightly with coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar for a gentle crunch.
8. Bake for 10–13 minutes, until set and lightly golden on the bottom. The tops should spring back when pressed.
9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then move to a rack to finish cooling.Serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 days. Add a small piece of parchment to absorb moisture.
• Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days. Warm briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) to soften.
• Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.Thaw at room temperature or microwave in 10-second bursts.
• Lunchbox tip: Pack while slightly chilled to help them hold their shape by lunchtime.

Health Benefits

• Balanced carbs and fats: The mix of flours and a touch of butter or oil makes these satisfying without being heavy.
• Less refined sugar: Honey or maple syrup offers gentle sweetness without going overboard.
• Protein boost options: Greek yogurt adds a bit of protein, and you can include nut or seed butter in the dough for more.
• Fiber add-ins: Whole wheat flour, oats (if swapping some flour), or fruit mix-ins support digestion and steady energy.
• No frying: Baking keeps the bites lighter and kid-friendly.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined. Overmixing makes the bites tough.
• Don’t bake too long: Dry bites happen fast. Start checking at 10 minutes.
• Don’t add wet fruit without drying: Excess moisture makes the dough sticky and dense.
• Don’t skip the salt: A small amount sharpens flavor, even in sweet snacks.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Leave space so the bites bake evenly.

Variations You Can Try

• Cinnamon Swirl: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the dry mix and roll warm bites in a light cinnamon-sugar dusting.
• Mini Chocolate Chip: Use mini chips for even distribution and a little sweetness in every bite.
• Strawberry Shortcake: Fold in finely chopped strawberries and a few white chocolate chips.
• Apple Pie Bites: Add 1/3 cup finely diced apples (patted dry) and a pinch of nutmeg with cinnamon.
• Peanut Butter Twist:</-strong> Replace 2 tablespoons of the butter with creamy peanut butter; add mini chocolate chips.
• Oatmeal Raisin: Swap 1/2 cup of the flour for quick oats and add raisins with a pinch of cinnamon.
• Dairy-Free: Use oil instead of butter and a non-dairy yogurt and milk.
• Gluten-Friendly: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend; add an extra tablespoon of milk if needed.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes.

Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If the dough firms up, let it sit on the counter for 10–15 minutes before rolling.

What if I don’t have applesauce?

Use extra yogurt or mashed ripe banana in the same amount. Banana will add more flavor and sweetness.

How do I keep them soft the next day?

Store in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.

A quick 10-second microwave warm-up brings back the softness.

Can I add sprinkles?

Absolutely. Fold in a couple of tablespoons of rainbow sprinkles for a fun birthday-style version.

Are these sweet enough for dessert?

They’re lightly sweet. For a dessert vibe, add a few more chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate after baking.

Can I use only all-purpose flour?

Yes.

Replace the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour in the same amount for a milder flavor and softer texture.

Do I need eggs?

No eggs here. The yogurt and applesauce keep the bites tender and help them hold together.

Can I air-fry these?

Yes. Preheat to 325°F (165°C) and cook for 6–8 minutes, checking early.

Line the basket with parchment to prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

Kid-Friendly Dough Snack Bites are simple, flexible, and perfect for busy days. The dough comes together fast, and the bites bake in minutes, so you can make them anytime. Keep a batch in the freezer for easy snacks and switch up the mix-ins to keep things fun.

With a soft texture and gentle sweetness, they’re the kind of treat that makes everyone happy.