Kids eating fruit without being asked twice sounds impossible until you turn it into a joke.
That’s exactly what these apple smiles do. Apple slices, peanut butter, and mini marshmallows turned into a goofy, toothy grin that kids can’t resist making themselves.
I made these for a Thanksgiving kids’ table a few years back, thinking they’d be a fun little extra. They ended up being the most requested thing on the entire table, and now they’re non negotiable every year.
Let’s put some smiles together.
What You’ll Need
- 2 apples (red or green, or one of each)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, mixed with water (to prevent browning)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut free)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Just four ingredients standing between you and a very silly snack.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl, for lemon water
- Butter knife or small spatula, for spreading
Pro Tips
I’ve made these enough times for parties to know exactly what makes them work.
1. Slice the apples evenly. Aim for about ¼ inch thick slices so each “mouth” holds together well and looks consistent across the whole tray.
2. Dip cut apples in lemon water right away. This keeps them from browning while you assemble the rest, especially if you’re making a big batch ahead of serving.
3. Spread peanut butter generously. It needs to be thick enough to hold the marshmallows in place without them sliding off.
4. Press marshmallows in firmly. A gentle push into the peanut butter keeps the teeth from falling out when kids pick these up.
5. Assemble close to serving time. These are best made within an hour or two of eating, since the apples soften slightly the longer they sit.
How to Make Apple Smiles
Step 1: Slice the Apples
Cut each apple into ¼ inch thick slices.
Dip the slices briefly in the lemon water mixture to prevent browning.
Step 2: Spread the Peanut Butter
Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on one side of half the apple slices.
Step 3: Add the Marshmallows
Press mini marshmallows into the peanut butter in a row, like a set of teeth.
Step 4: Close the Smile
Top with another apple slice, peanut butter side down, pressing gently so the marshmallows peek out like teeth.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut free version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for classrooms or nut free parties.
- Chocolate twist: Swap peanut butter for Nutella for a chocolate hazelnut version.
- Fun decorations: Add a small dot of red decorating gel on the marshmallows for a silly vampire smile look around Halloween.
- Different fruit: Pear slices work in place of apples for a slightly softer texture.
- Extra crunch: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or granola over the peanut butter before adding marshmallows.
Make Ahead Tips
These are best assembled close to serving time since apple slices brown and soften the longer they sit.
You can slice the apples and prep the lemon water up to a few hours ahead, keeping the slices submerged until you’re ready to assemble.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Makes 8 smiles)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 13g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Protein | 3g |
Numbers will shift depending on the size of your apple slices and how much peanut butter is used.
Diet Friendly Swaps
- Nut free: Use sunflower seed butter or a soy nut butter alternative.
- Lower sugar: Use fewer marshmallows per slice, or a sugar free marshmallow alternative if available.
- Vegan: Check your marshmallow brand, since some contain gelatin. Vegan marshmallows work as a direct swap.
Meal Pairing Suggestions
Serve alongside other finger foods on a kids’ Thanksgiving table, like turkey shaped sliders or a veggie tray with dip.
These also work well as an after school snack any time of year, not just around the holidays.
Cooking Time Efficiency Tips
Slice all your apples first and keep them in the lemon water while you prep the peanut butter and marshmallows, so assembly moves quickly without stopping to slice more.
Set up an assembly line with peanut butter spread on one row of slices and marshmallows ready to press in, so a big batch comes together in just a few minutes.
Leftovers and Storage
These are best eaten the same day since assembled apple slices soften and brown over time.
If you have leftover sliced apples that haven’t been assembled yet, store them submerged in lemon water in the fridge for up to a day.
FAQ
Why did my apple slices turn brown? This happens from air exposure. A quick dip in lemon water slows the browning process significantly.
Can I make these ahead for a party? Slice the apples and prep ingredients ahead, but assemble close to serving time for the best texture and appearance.
What if my child has a peanut allergy? Sunflower seed butter works as a direct substitute and tastes similar without the allergy risk.
Can I use a different fruit besides apples? Pear slices work well too, though they’re softer and slightly more delicate to work with.
How far in advance can I slice the apples? Up to a few hours ahead if kept submerged in lemon water, though same day assembly is always best.
Wrapping Up
Apple smiles turn a simple fruit snack into something kids actually get excited about, and that alone makes them worth adding to your holiday spread.
They’re quick, they need almost no real cooking skill, and they disappear fast at every party I’ve brought them to.
Try this recipe, then come back and tell me how it turned out. Did you make them nut free? Add a chocolate twist? Drop a comment below, I’d love to hear about it. 🦷
