You must always provide the children with a nutritious, balanced, and delicious breakfast when running a daycare facility. Remember that the appropriate meal, particularly in the morning, will provide their body and minds with the requisite fuel to ensure they have the energy and focus to take part in learning and play all day.
However, the real issue is coming up with a daycare breakfast menu that is as healthy as it is attractive to kids.
Best Daycare Breakfast Menu ideas That Children Love
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Oatmeal with Fun Toppings
This is one very popular breakfast you should consider as guarantees a warm and comforting start to the day. It is very rich in fiber and ensures that the children are full until their next meal.
It is recommended you offer a wide array of toppings including fresh berries, sliced bananas, raisins, honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
If you want to make it very exciting, consider putting together a “make your own oatmeal” station that enables children to select their toppings.
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Yogurt Parfaits
You would also want to consider this dish as it has proven to be both visually appealing and filled with nutrition. To make it, layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches in clear cups.
One of the best yogurt to use is Greek yogurt due to its high protein content which makes it ideal for growing bodies. Make sure to add honey or a small amount of maple syrup on the side.
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Mini Pancakes or Waffles
You will enjoy the fact that they are easy to make and can be made from scratch or using whole-grain mixes to boost the nutritional value.
However, if the intention is to make it a lot more interesting, then it is recommended you consider serving it with a wide range of dipping options such as yogurt, applesauce, or a small amount of syrup.
Aside from that, you can choose to infuse fruits such as blueberries or mashed bananas into the batter to give it an extra edge in flavor and nutrition.
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Scrambled Eggs with Veggies
One of the primary reasons why you might want to consider this meal is the fact that egg is a well-known source of protein and can be prepared in a good number of ways.
You can choose to make scrambled eggs that feature nicely diced veggies such as bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes to ensure the kids have a nutritious and filling breakfast.
If you want to elevate it further, you can top it up with a sprinkle of cheese on top or serve with whole-grain toast soldiers that children can dip into their eggs.
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Fruit Smoothies
This is a viable choice to incorporate into your daycare breakfast menu list. Smoothies are one exciting way to add servings of fruits and even veggies without children noticing.
To make it, you only have to blend fruits such as bananas, berries, and mango, in addition to spinach or kale for added nutrients.
If possible, consider leveraging yogurt or milk as the base and top up with a bit of honey if necessary. You might want to freeze the smoothies into popsicle molds for a fun and healthy treat that feels like dessert.
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Whole-grain cereal with Milk
Cereal is cereal, but whole-grain cereals are entirely on another level. However, it is recommended you pick out cereals with minimal added sugar and high fiber content. Consider serving with fresh fruit on the side or infused into the cereal for added flavor and nutrition.
You might as well give room for children to select their cereal from a few healthy options to make them know they have a choice and control over their meals.
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Breakfast Burritos
To make them, you only need a whole-wheat tortilla that you will fill with scrambled eggs, beans, cheese, and nicely chopped veggies.
This dish can be made ahead of time, frozen, and afterward reheated for a quick and easy breakfast. You can serve it with a mild salsa or ketchup on the side for dipping.
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French Toast Sticks
You cannot get anything better like French toast especially when kids are in the picture. They are known to be loved by children, and turning them into sticks will even make them more exciting to eat. You must use whole-grain bread dipped in a blend of eggs, milk, and cinnamon.
Once you are done cooking, dice the toast into sticks and serve with fresh fruit or a small amount of syrup. If also possible, consider including a dash of vanilla extract or nutmeg in the egg mixture for an additional flavor boost.
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Bagels with Cream Cheese or Nut Butter
One thing to note about mini bagels is that the size and shape are ideal for little hands. Another thing you will love is that they can be served with a wide array of spreads including cream cheese, peanut butter, or almond butter.
You can also add a side of sliced fruit like apples or oranges to balance the meal. If you would prefer to provide the kids with more nutritious options, then utilize whole-grain bagels and make available toppings like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or avocado.
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Muffins with Hidden Veggies
This is another viable way to guarantee kids get the required amount of vitamins they need. To make it, you have to bake a batch of whole-grain muffins and serve them with a glass of milk or a piece of fruit for a complete meal.
It is recommended you consider making the muffins mini-sized for portion control as well as to ensure they are more appealing to young children.
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Breakfast Quesadillas
Breakfast quesadilla is a fun twist on the popular classic Mexican dish. However, this dish necessitates the use of whole-wheat tortillas, which are fully packed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and optional veggies such as bell peppers or spinach.
You then bake until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy before you can slice it into wedges. Consider serving with a mild salsa or a dollop of Greek yogurt for dipping.
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Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are another good option to infuse into your daycare breakfast menu. To make it, mix rolled oats with milk (or a dairy alternative) and let it sit in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you can stir in diced apples, a drizzle of cinnamon, and a good amount of honey.
If you want yours to have a bit of texture and flavor, top the oats with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. You can then choose to serve cold or warm-up, depending on the child’s preference.
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Egg Muffins
You would love to add this to your menu particularly since it is a portable and customizable breakfast option. Take your time to whisk eggs before pouring them into a muffin tin. Include fillings such as diced ham, cheese, chopped vegetables, or even small pieces of cooked sausage.
Make sure to bake until the eggs are set, and you have individual portions ready to serve. It is possible to make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. To get ready to serve, reheat in the morning.
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Banana Pancakes
Banana pancakes are a wonderful option especially since it is renowned for being a healthier twist on traditional pancakes, and also made with just a few ingredients.
To make them, mash ripe bananas and blend them with eggs and a bit of flour or oats. Let it cool on a griddle as you would regular pancakes.
The children will love them since they are naturally sweet and can come with fresh fruit or a touch of syrup. If the intention is to make yours distinctive, you might want to add a drizzle of cinnamon or mini chocolate chips to the batter.
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Cottage Cheese and Fruit
This is very high in protein and is a low-fat dairy option that aligns seamlessly with fruit. At the very least, it is recommended you serve a scoop of cottage cheese accompanied by fresh fruit such as pineapple, peaches, or berries.
You can as well infuse drops of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. If you want it to look more enticing, then consider layering the cottage cheese and fruit in a clear cup or bowl.
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Avocado Toast
To make this delicious dish, mash ripe avocado and spread it on whole-grain toast. If you want something different, then sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Make sure to top it with sliced cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of cheese, or a poached egg.
To ensure that kids who don’t like avocado also partake, consider mixing it with a bit of cream cheese to come up with a milder flavor and smoother texture.
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Smoothie Bowls
The difference between these bowls and normal smoothies is that they are a thicker version of smoothies, and are also served in a bowl and eaten with a spoon.
It involves blending a wide array of fruits, yogurt, as well as a bit of milk until thick and creamy. Pour into bowls and let the kids top their bowls with sliced fruit, granola, nuts, or seeds.
If you would like to inculcate extra nutrition, then add a spoonful of nut butter, chia seeds, or flaxseeds to the smoothie before blending.
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Homemade Granola Bars
Combine oats, honey, nut butter, and dried fruits or nuts, then press into a baking dish and bake until set. After it has cooled, take your time to slice it into bars or squares.
Ensure to infuse ingredients such as flaxseeds or chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. You can also dip the bars in melted dark chocolate for a special treat.
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Breakfast Pizza
To make them so that kids can have them in the morning, utilize whole-wheat pita or flatbread as the base, spread them with a bit of tomato sauce, and finish up with scrambled eggs, cheese, and finely chopped veggies.
Bake until the cheese has melted and become bubbly. You can choose to come up with a sweet version leveraging a base of yogurt, topped with sliced fruit and a drizzle of honey.
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Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is one meal that will prove a good choice as it is known for being comforting and filling. It more or less requires that you cook rice in milk with a bit of sugar or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until creamy.
You can choose to serve warm or cold, accompanied with fresh fruit, raisins, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you want to do something different, consider making use of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to boost the fiber and protein content.
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Chia Pudding
This is one of the best nutrient-dense, make-ahead breakfast options you can include in your daycare menu. They are easy to make especially since you only have to combine chia seeds with milk (or a dairy alternative) and give it time to sit perhaps overnight in the fridge.
By morning, the chia seeds would have absorbed the liquid, and you can choose to top it up with a little honey or maple syrup as well as fresh fruit or granola. Consider including a splash of vanilla extract or cocoa powder in the chia pudding for extra flavor.
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Egg and Cheese Breakfast Cups
Egg and cheese breakfast cups should be one of the first things you consider when coming up with a breakfast menu for your daycare.
Aside from the fact that they are easy to make, also note that they are perfect for portion control. Line a muffin tin with slices of ham or turkey, crack an egg into each cup, and sprinkle with cheese, then bake until the eggs are set.
Keep in mind that this dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Be sure to infuse a few diced veggies such as bell peppers or spinach into each cup for additional nutrition.
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Peanut Butter and Banana Toast
While it is a very simple dish, keep in mind that it is a satisfying breakfast that brings together the creaminess of peanut butter and the natural sweetness of bananas. To make it, spread peanut butter (or another nut/seed butter) on whole-grain toast, and finish it up with sliced bananas.
You can as well leverage a sprinkle of chia seeds or a drizzle of honey to give it extra flavor and texture. Consider using a cookie cutter to make alluring designs of the toast.
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Veggie-Loaded Frittata
A good reason to consider this meal is that it provides the opportunity to fuse protein and vegetables in one dish. To make this exceptional meal, whisk and pour egg into a greased baking dish.
Add a wide range of nicely chopped veggies such as zucchini, spinach, and tomatoes. Finish it up with cheese and bake until set.
It is also recommended you consider making mini frittatas by making good use of muffin tins to make individual servings possible.
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Breakfast Sushi
You can’t afford to overlook this dish because aside from being fun, it is a hands-on breakfast that kids enjoy. Most often, you need a whole-wheat tortilla that you will judiciously spread with cream cheese or peanut butter.
Place a whole banana on one end, roll up the tortilla, and slice it into bite-sized pieces resembling sushi. To ensure the kids have varieties to pick from, leverage varying spreads such as almond butter or even yogurt.
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Cereal and Milk Bars
This is one of the easiest meals to make if you choose to include it in your daycare menu. Carefully get the mixture into a pan, give it time to set, and afterward cut it into bars. You would appreciate the fact that it is a good option, especially for kids who love cereal but need a more portable breakfast.
You can as well inculcate dried fruits or seeds into the mixture to guarantee additional nutrition and flavor. It is also a good option to drizzle the bars with yogurt or chocolate.
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Breakfast Sliders
These are mini sandwiches ideal for little hands. If you choose to add it to your daycare menu, carefully fill small whole-grain rolls with scrambled eggs, a slice of cheese, as well as a piece of turkey bacon or sausage. You must warn them in the oven until you are certain the cheese is melted.
It is most often advised to make a batch of these sliders ahead of time and keep them in the fridge to serve as a quick, reheatable breakfast option.
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Baked Oatmeal Squares
Just like many other ideas in this list, it is easy to make since you just have to combine oats with milk, eggs, a sprinkle of honey, and add-ins that include fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips.
Once you are done with the mixture, get the mixture into a baking dish. Leave it to bake until set, and cut into squares. You might as well store the squares in the fridge or freeze them for later use.
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Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Fruit and cheese kabobs will prove to be one of the best breakfasts at your daycare, especially since they are a very fun and colorful way to guarantee kids always enjoy breakfast. Slice bite-sized pieces of fresh fruit like grapes, strawberries, and melon with cubes of cheese.
Consider leveraging pretzel sticks rather than skewers to guarantee they are completely edible and kid-friendly options. You can also choose to serve these with a small cup of yogurt for dipping.
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Sweet Potato Toast
This is another good meal to consider given the fact that it is nutritious as well as a more distinctive alternative to traditional bread toast.
You will have to take your time to cut a sweet potato lengthwise into thin slices, then bake or toast them until tender. Top with a vast array of options such as nut butter and banana, avocado and cherry tomatoes, or ricotta and honey.
It is recommended you make a batch of sweet potato slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you need them, just pop them in the toaster for a quick and easy breakfast.
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Quinoa Breakfast Bowls
A good reason to consider this dish is the fact that it is a high-protein grain that is a great base for a breakfast bowl. To make it, you just have to cook the quinoa and serve it warm or cold, accompanied by a good number of options including fresh berries, drops of honey, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds.
Aside from that, you can choose to mix in yogurt for added creaminess. You might as well decide to cook the quinoa in milk rather than water to make it creamier and more flavorful.
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Breakfast Tacos
This is a good option particularly since it is an easy-to-customize meal. However, be sure to only use small whole-wheat tortillas. Take your time to fill them with scrambled eggs, beans, cheese, and veggies such as diced tomatoes or avocados.
These tacos can be served with a mild salsa on the side. If you want to inculcate protein, then add lean turkey sausage or black beans to the filling.
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Stuffed French Toast
If you looking for an option that is sweet and satisfying, then you would want to consider stuffed French toast. To prepare this dish, you will first have to make a sandwich with whole-grain bread, filled with a blend of cream cheese and fruit preserves or sliced bananas.
Cover the sandwich with a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Cook on a griddle until golden brown. You might want to serve it with fresh fruit or a small drop of maple syrup. If you want to add a fun twist to yours, then consider a wide array of fruit fillings, such as strawberries, blueberries, or apples.
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Egg-in-a-Hole
It involves cutting a hole in the center of a slice of whole-grain bread with a cookie cutter or a small glass. Carefully place the bread in a skillet, crack an egg into the hole, and cook until the egg is set.
What would come out will be a toasty, protein-rich breakfast that kids will enjoy. When serving, place the cut-out bread circles on the side, toasted and topped with a bit of jam or butter.
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Fruit and Yogurt Smoothie Pops
You will need to blend yogurt with fresh fruit such as bananas, strawberries, or mangoes, pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze. This will turn out to be a refreshing and nutritious breakfast, particularly during hot days.
You can also inculcate spinach or kale into the smoothie to ensure the kids have a good dosage of greens without knowing. Consider mixing in a little honey or vanilla for added flavor.
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English Muffin Pizzas
This is one of the quickest options you can infuse into your daycare breakfast menu. It is used to describe whole-grain English muffins topped with tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese, as well as any other toppings such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Also, consider making use of low-fat cheese or inculcating lean proteins such as turkey sausage or sliced chicken for a balanced meal. You can decide to make them in batches to be reheated quickly in the morning.
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Pumpkin or Sweet Potato Pancakes
You will love the fact that they are a nutritious twist on traditional pancakes. They are made almost the same way as our conventional pancakes since you just have to mix pureed pumpkin or sweet potato into your pancake batter with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
The kids will love these pancakes because they are naturally sweet and full of vitamins. Consider serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, chopped nuts, or a good quantity of raisins.
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Breakfast Parfait Cups
Breakfast parfait cups are another valid choice especially when you consider the fact that they are a portable version of a yogurt parfait.
To make it, you will have to layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in small cups or jars. One good thing about it is that they can be made ahead of time and stroked in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
If you want to make yours stand out, consider adding fruit compote or a sprinkle of nuts between the layers for added flavor and crunch.
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Baked Apples
One of the best options available, it is renowned for being a warm and comforting breakfast that’s ideal for cooler mornings. They are easy to make because you only have to score apples and fill them with a combination of oats, cinnamon, as well as a little honey or brown sugar.
Afterwards, bake until tender, and serve warm. If you would want to make it more nutritious, add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the stuffing.
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Breakfast Biscuits
This is without doubt a hearty breakfast that can be served with a wide array of toppings. You just have to make whole-grain biscuits and serve them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and a slice of turkey bacon or ham. Keep in mind that it can be served as open-faced sandwiches or as traditional breakfast sandwiches.
It is recommended you add a touch of herbs or spices to the biscuit dough, such as rosemary or garlic powder, for additional flavor. It is also possible to make a large batch and freeze them to make breakfast planning easier.
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Mini Bagels with Cream Cheese and Fruit
Mini whole-grain bagels will also be a good choice when looking to come up with a good breakfast menu for your daycare. You just have to spread it with cream cheese and finish it up with sliced fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas.
The children will most definitely love this option since it is both delicious and balanced. If you want to take it up a notch, it is recommended you mix the cream cheese with a dash of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon before spreading it on the bagels.
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Breakfast Flatbreads
To make it, top whole-wheat flatbread with scrambled eggs, a drizzle of cheese, and some sautéed veggies such as spinach or mushrooms. Bake until the cheese melts and the flatbread is crispy.
If you want to make a sweeter version, then consider finishing up the flatbread with almond butter, sliced bananas, and drops of honey.
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Sausage and Cheese Muffins
The children will most definitely enjoy these muffins known to be savoury and portable. Mix cooked, crumbled turkey sausage with shredded cheese, flour, and eggs to come up with a muffin batter. Bake in a muffin tin until golden brown.
You can also decide to infuse in nicely diced veggies such as bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition. Keep in mind that you can also make them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating.
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Rice Cakes with Nut Butter and Fruit
One food reason why this is a good option is because it is a light and crunchy base for a wide array of toppings. Spread with nut butter and top with sliced fruit such as apples or strawberries. Note that this mixture guarantees a proper mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
You might want to finish it up by sprinkling a little granola or chia seeds for extra texture and nutrition. To curtail nut allergies, go instead for sunflower seed butter or another seed butter.
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Breakfast Empanadas
This is without doubt a fun, handheld meal that will prove a good addition to your daycare breakfast menu. It is recommended you make use of pre-made or homemade dough and fill it with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced ham or veggies.
Once you are done, bake until golden brown and serve warm. It is another meal on this list that can be made ahead and frozen.
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Mango Coconut Chia Pudding
To make it, you should mix chia seeds with coconut milk and give it time to sit, maybe overnight. In the morning, layer the pudding with fresh mango pieces as well as a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
If you would want to elevate the dish, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. Note that it can be served in small clear cups to show off the enticing layers.
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Apple and Peanut Butter Sandwiches
Apple slices have been renowned for being a good option when looking to make a crunchy and sweet sandwich that aligns well with peanut butter. Slice an apple into thin rounds, then carefully spread peanut butter on one slice, and top with another slice.
It is a viable option when looking to come up with a fun and healthy way for the kids to have fruit and protein together. You can also decide to roll the edges in granola or crushed nuts for extra crunch.
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Eggplant Breakfast Stacks
Eggplant slices are a good choice when looking for a base for breakfast stacks. You will need to lightly grill or bake thick slices of eggplant.
Once you are done, top it with scrambled eggs, a slice of tomato, as well as a sprinkle of cheese. Be sure to serve warm as a nutritious and filling option. Aside from that, you can also layer with a bit of avocado or spinach for added nutrition.
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Homemade Pop-Tarts
To make it, you will need to utilize whole-wheat pastry dough, which will have to be filled with fruit preserves or a combination of nut butter and honey.
Be sure to bake until golden brown and serve warm. To make it a lot more enticing, consider adding a little icing made from powdered sugar and milk, and some sprinkles.
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Avocado Toast with Boiled Egg
Avocado toast is one of the best choices you can go with especially since it is renowned for being a healthy, simple breakfast that contains healthy fats and protein.
You just have to mash a ripe avocado and spread it on whole-grain toast. Consider topping it with slices of hard-boiled egg and a drizzle of salt and pepper.
Note that aside from being nutritious, it will provide kids with sustained energy. You can also decide to add a sprinkle of paprika, some cherry tomatoes, or drops of olive oil.