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Apple Ladybug Treats

Red apples are decorated to look like lady bugs. This is a quick, easy, and fun snack that kids will enjoy making and eating. A raw recipe! This would be fun to put in the kids lunchbox too. Enjoy!

5.0 · 5 reviewsRecipe card by Sharon123Editorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
AppleFruitVeganKid FriendlySweetBrunch
Apple Ladybug Treats

Total time

10 min

Servings

4

Calories

97.2

Category

Lunch/Snacks

Looking for the perfect plant-based snack that kids will adore? These Apple Ladybug Treats are a fun, healthy, and entirely vegan snack that takes less than 15 minutes to assemble. Combining the crisp sweetness of fresh apples with creamy plant-based spreads and nature's 'polka dots,' these adorable edible bugs are a hit for school lunches, brunch, or an easy after-school treat.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 2 sweet red apples
  • 1 lemon juice
  • 1 water
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 1/4 raisins
  • 1/4 peanut butter

Method

  1. Slice apples in half from top to bottom and scoop out the cores using a knife or a melon baller. If you have an apple corer, core them first, then slice. Brush or dip cut side of apples in lemon juice mixed with the water to keep from browning.Place each apple half flat side down on lettuce leaves(if using), then place on a small plate. The lettuce leaves help keep little fingers off the peanut butter.

  2. Dab peanut butter(or almond butter) on to the back of the 'lady bug', then stick raisins(or craisins) onto the dabs for spots. If using cheerios, place raisins inside of cheerios and stick on peanut butter dabs.

  3. Use this method to make eyes too. Stick one end of each pretzel stick into a raisin, then press the other end into the apples to make antennae.

  4. Kids will have fun playing with their food, then eating it!

Cook's notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer to get perfectly even apple slices for a stable base.
  • Pat the apple slices dry with a paper towel before spreading to ensure the toppings stick better.
  • If you have extra time, let the prepared ladybugs chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to help the spread set.

Easy swaps

  • Use sunflower seed butter or a creamy cashew butter if you need a nut-free alternative.
  • Swap fresh grapes for halved blueberries or dried cranberries for different 'spot' textures.
  • If you prefer a tart flavor, use Granny Smith apples instead of Gala or Fuji.

Frequently asked

Are these Apple Ladybug Treats gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the nut butter or seed butter used is certified gluten-free, this entire recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the apple slices from turning brown?

You can toss your sliced apples in a bowl with a little water and a squeeze of fresh lemon or pineapple juice before assembling.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Yes! We recommend assembling them as close to serving as possible, but you can prep the apple slices and store them in lemon water to save time.

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