Muffin Tin Picnic

Picnic time

Whether it’s summertime, springtime, or autumn, this muffin tin picnic is sure to be a hit for kids. You will find it an especially easy meal if your children enjoy being outside. This can work as a picnic on your lawn, on the porch or patio, or at a park. 

Children can eat and play, eat and play, or “graze.” If there’s an event you must attend that’s outside and you know your kids will not be into sandwiches, try this idea. 

This idea came from my daughter, who has used it after hearing about it from others. Who is the originator? Nobody knows.

Food in the muffin tin picnic

You know your children and what they like. Based on that, provide an assortment of foods that include veggies, protein, and fruit. You’ll have a complete meal.

Food items that work well as finger foods for kids include the following: pretzel thins, pepperoni, cheese cubes, grapes, strawberries, cucumbers, and meat chunks (ham, turkey, etc.). If your child can handle carrots, add small baby carrots to one of the tins.

Individualized tins

If you’re hosting a bunch of kiddos, you can use smaller muffin tins – 6 tins – to make an individual “plate” for each child. You can also purchase small disposable containers and put them on small (disposable) trays for each child. This will take a little more effort and be a small added expense, but it will be worth if it you’re hosting a group of playmates and need more serving plates.

Each child can pick up his own tray with food items and take it to his spot to eat his food. If you’re serving less kids, you can easily use a 12-spot muffin tin to serve two kids. Put food on both sides of the tin so each child has his own food that he prefers.

Photo credits: Sarah Beth Washington