Breakfast is hard. It’s early, it’s rushed, it’s sometimes in the car. It’s even tougher with kids who reject 90% of the options you give them. But sugary cereals and toaster pastries aren’t likely to get them through the school day. So what’s a well-meaning parent to do?

Here are three healthy and protein-packed breakfast recipes your kids will actually want to eat.

1. Rainbow Unicorn Smoothie

Ok so maybe whipped cream isn’t exactly a breakfast food, but if it gets the kiddos to drink the healthy smoothie underneath, we consider that a win. And what kid is going to reject a unicorn smoothie?! Made with milk, yogurt, and fruit, this smoothie has only 120 calories, and boasts 5 grams of protein. https://milklife.com/articles/recipe/rainbow-unicorn-smoothie-recipe

2. Apple Walnut Overnight Oats

These overnight oats are flavored with apple pie spice, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar – enough to make you wonder if you’re having breakfast or dessert. The answer, however, is solidly breakfast as the milk and oats are loaded with protein and fresh apples and walnuts add the perfect amount of crunch. The whole thing is prepped the night (or week!) before and can be easily eaten on-the-go. Yum! https://www.oakhurstdairy.com/recipes/apple-walnut-overnight-oats

3. PB&J Pancake Dippers

Peanut butter and jelly is a kid favorite, and paired with a glass of milk it has more than 15g of protein! So how do you make PB&J for breakfast? Wrap it in a pancake! Use the jelly as a dip (kids love to dip!) or take it on the go if the kids are about to miss the bus. Get the recipe here: https://milklife.com/articles/recipe/peanut-butter-jelly-pancake-dippers-recipe