Happy Fall Snacking! Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dip and Caramel Apple Candy Mix

Many of us have high energy children that require lots and lots of nutrition.  I don't know about you, but my grocery bill now that I have a teenage boy in my mist is crazy!  So I am always looking for ways to make snacks stretch for the least amount of money, this can be quite the challenge, especially when you want to keep things on the healthy side. 

My son is known for his sweet tooth.  He could devour a large bag of peanut butter cups every day after school if I would let him.  He enjoys the traditional fall favorite of apple slices and caramel apple dip, but it's not always portable enough for him with his sport packed lifestyle.  So I made a play on a simple snack my mom to this day still makes.  Candy corn and peanuts.  It has the sweet that my son loves with a nice little pack of protein and fiber from the peanuts.  Another plus, you can really make this stretch!

3 12oz bags caramel apple candy corns
1 12 oz can of skinned, salted peanuts

Mix together in a bowl and you are ready to go!  For a party or just for kids on the go, fill medium sized wax paper bags half way with this yummy treat!  This will help with serving sizes so no one just sits down and eats a whole bowl, which is very easy to do!

Another fun and easy dip is anything made with pudding.  You can take the following recipe and change it up to suit your needs.  This is great for any party or afternoon sweet tooth craving!

3.4oz box of pumpkin spice pudding made according to pie directions
12 oz whipped topping thawed
8oz cream cheese softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
chocolate graham crackers for dipping

Take pudding made to package directions for a pie, let setup for about 10mins in the fridge.  Whip in cream cheese and peanut butter, no lumps.  Then fold in whipped topping until mixed through.  Back in the fridge for at least an hour to let flavors mix.  Serve with chocolate graham crackers for added flavor and crunch.  This is also yummy with sliced apples or cut up celery!

ENJOY!!