Apple Nachos

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A high-calorie, nutrient-dense snack for kids (and adults) with CF!

INGREDIENTS

  • 5 apples – Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji recommended (fiber helps with digestion and steady blood sugar)
  • 3–4 Tbsp peanut butter, almond butter, or nut butter of choice (extra calories & healthy fats)
  • ¼ cup chocolate chips (mini or dark chocolate work well
  • 2 Tbsp crushed nuts or seeds – walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds (optional but adds calories & omega-3s)
  • 1 Tbsp shredded coconut (optional, for extra calories & flavor)
  • Pinch of salt (helps replace salt lost through sweat – especially after activity!)
  • Enzymes: If taken, have them ready before eating since this snack combines carbs and fat.

    DIRECTIONS

    1. Wash and slice apples into thin wedges.
    2. Arrange half of the apples on a plate or platter.
    3. Warm nut butter in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to make it easier to drizzle.
    4. Drizzle half of the nut butter over the first apple layer.
    5. Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips, nuts/seeds, coconut, and a tiny pinch of salt.
    6. Repeat layers with remaining apples and toppings.

    CF Nutrition Boosting Tips

    Add More Fat

    Drizzle a little heavy cream, caramel sauce, or even a touch of olive oil for extra calories.

    Pack in Protein

    Add Greek yogurt on the side for dipping.

    Enzyme Reminder

    Since this recipe mixes carbs + fat, remember to take pancreatic enzymes if prescribed.

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    APPLES ARE IN SEASON!

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Fiber is huge for people with CF. It keeps your gut moving (good for preventing constipation and DIOS) and helps steady blood sugars, which is especially important if you also deal with CFRD (CF-related diabetes). Fun fact: one apple has the same fiber as about 2–3 fiber gummies. But apple juice? Almost no fiber at all, so eating the whole apple wins every time.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Most plain fruits and veggies can be eaten without enzymes because they don’t have much fat or protein. So you can grab an apple on the go without having to stop for your pills. Just keep in mind: if you dip your apple in nut butter, caramel, or ranch, you’ll likely need enzymes because of the added fat/protein.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Apples can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Since CF can sometimes affect cholesterol levels, working in heart-healthy foods like apples is a tasty way to support your long-term health.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Apples are about 85% water, which means they also help with hydration. Since people with CF can lose extra salt and fluids through sweat, every little bit of hydration counts.