20 Healthy and Nutritious Late-Night Snacks That Won’t Leave You Hungry (2024)

When your stomach starts grumbling, but you already had dinner a few hours earlier, it may be time for a late-night snack. And though take-out leftovers, cookies, chips, or a frozen dinner may sound delicious, they aren’t going to provide your body with the nutrients it needs. Here, experts break down the best healthy late-night snacks to tame your midnight munchies.

What makes a healthy late-night snack?

It’s essential to choose a late-night snack that is rich in nutrients and provides some value and energy for you to use, Levinson says. Excess calories from non-nutrient-dense foods are likely to be stored because your metabolism slows at night, she adds. Aim for a snack that has a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to promote fullness, suggests Langer. Additionally, be sure to include some extra fiber in your snack, notes Mathis. This balance ensures that your blood sugar levels will stay stable and hold you over until the morning. Reach for any of these dietitian-approved foods for a healthier late-night bite.

Spoon out some creamy cottage cheese with a handful of berries for a tasty treat full of filling fat and fiber, says Langer. She opts for a higher-fat variety to keep her full for longer.

Grab a box of your favorite cracker made from nut flours and seeds for a boost of fiber, protein, and fat to keep you full until morning, Langer says. Pair them with some cheese or nut butter for an extra bit of fat and protein. We love Blue Diamond Nut Thins.

Dig into a bowl of dreamy Greek yogurt and top it off with your favorite granola for a crunchy treat, Langer says. She loves a good homemade granola recipe to bring fat, carbs, protein, and fiber. Looking for a good yogurt pick? Levinson chooses the Chobani less sugar Greek yogurt. For something extra sweet, a drizzle of honey or some extra fruit does the trick.

Often full of fiber, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, Langer enjoys a snackable granola bar. She likes to make her own homemade chewy chocolate cherry oat bars to keep the ingredients clean and sugar in check. Stash a few in the fridge for when hunger strikes.

If making your own bar seems daunting, Mathis snacks on JOJO’s Dark Chocolate Bars for grab-and-go ease. “Because I usually crave sweet snacks, I enjoy JOJO’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars. They are low in sugar and contain six grams of protein per serving,” she says.

A burst of protein, fats, and fiber make this the ultimate late-night snack, shares Mathis. Plus, it’s easy to throw together, so you don’t need to stay up later than you already are. If you’re feeling extra sweet, a drizzle of honey makes this extra decadent.

These take a little more effort than your usual snack, but eggs are a great source of protein when you need something (relatively quick) and substantial enough to get you to morning. Mathis loves the high protein you get in each bite. Pair with berries for some extra carbs and fiber.

Have a mixture of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a variety of nuts at the ready to crush your late night cravings, Mathis suggests. The combo brings a ton of protein, fiber, and healthy fats and is an easy snackable option when hunger strikes.

Grab an apple or banana to pair with your favorite nut butter. This combo often helps crush sweet and salty cravings, and is great to bring fiber, protein, and fats to your snack, Levinson says.

Choosing a low-sugar and high-fiber cereal (likeany of our best healthy cereals) and berries can be a great, comforting snack, Levinson says. She especially likes that milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that the body can use to create hormones that positively impact your sleep-wake cycle.

A warm bowl of oatmeal made with nonfat milk is a fiber-rich snack that also has melatonin, which can help with sleep and relaxation, Levinson says. Mix in a sprinkle of cinnamon for some extra flavor and antioxidants.

This snack feels decadent, but brings some great protein and fat into the mix. It’s a healthy option that feels extra sweet, Levinson says. We like SKINNYDIPPED Chocolate Lovers Variety Pack.

Fill a whole wheat tortilla with a combination of protein and fats, like a smear of nut butter, a slice of turkey, or cottage cheese for a well-rounded late night delight.

This dip is the trifecta of healthy fats, carbs, and protein. Add a side of veggies, like carrots or peppers, and whole grain pretzels to dip, and you have an easy evening bite.

Your breakfast favorite just became your ultimate late-night snack. Whole grain toast and avocados are the dynamic duo for carbs and healthy fats. Sprinkle some feta cheese, hemp, or pumpkin seeds on top for extra protein, and you have yourself a delectable snack.

These little pods are jam packed with protein and fiber to be a nutritious snack in their own little packaging. Pick a brand that doesn’t add any salt and add just a touch to taste right before enjoying. Plus, they’re great frozen so you can always stay stocked up.

Experts always point to yogurt as a great option for late-night snacking, but frozen varieties are just as great when cravings for something cool and creamy strike. Be sure to pick an option high in protein, but low in sugar, like Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars.

Perfectly portioned string cheese, triangle cheese, or other pre-packed cheeses are easy grab-and-snack options, and pair perfectly with a piece of fresh fruit. Slice up an apple or grab or handful of grapes for a fiber-packed plate.

Grab your favorite veggies and whole grain tortilla chips, because a few scoops of guacamole full of healthy fats is a great late-night bite. Pair with fiber-rich veggies, like cucumbers and broccoli, and whole grains for some carbs to keep you satisfied.

Mix up your usual trail mix of nuts and dried fruit for this delectable delight. Pair a date with your favorite protein, like cheese or nut butter. Slice a date down the center and fill it with a dollop of nut butter or a slice of parmesan. It’s high in fiber and fat to satisfy your snack attack.