17 Essential Emergency Winter Storm Snack Ideas for Your Pantry

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Winter storms are a fact of life for a large number of people in the northern hemisphere, and when they hit, you never know how long your kitchen will be out of commission.

It could be hours, but it might be days.

Either way, it’s good to know that you’ve got some easy snacking options handy for you and your family.

Here are seventeen essential winter storm snack ideas to have in your pantry to keep you fed and energized during a storm.

17 Winter Storm Snacks to Keep Hunger at Bay

1. Trail Mix

Trail mix is a perfect no-prep snack for winter emergencies.

Made from a mix of nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and chocolate or yogurt-covered treats, it provides a healthy balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to keep your energy up.

It’s also portable and can be stored for long periods, making it an excellent choice for the pantry.

2. Dehydrated Apples

Dehydrated apples are a lightweight, shelf-stable snack perfect for emergency winter storm situations.

They retain most of the nutritional benefits of fresh apples, providing fiber, natural sugars, and essential vitamins.

Easy to store and with a long shelf-life, they are a great pantry addition for any occasion, emergency or otherwise.

You can check out our article on apple storage, which includes a breakdown of the dehydration process.

3. Peanut Butter and Crackers

Peanut butter paired with crackers is something I used to get in my school lunch almost every single day.

It’s a satisfying, protein-rich snack (22.5 g per 100 g) that doesn’t require cooking or refrigeration.

Whole-grain crackers provide fiber, while peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein, keeping you full and energized.

For variety, swap in almond or cashew butter.

4. Canned Tuna and Crackers

Canned tuna is another great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with crackers for a no-cook, balanced snack.

Choose tuna that comes with a pop-top lid for ease of use, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon or some seasoning packets for flavor.

Tuna on its own is pretty boring.

5. Granola Bars

Granola bars are an essential ready-made snack for any winter storm.

These nutrient-dense bars come in a variety of flavors and contain a good mix of carbohydrates, fiber and protein.

They’re portable and long-lasting, making them ideal for when you’re unable to cook or need quick energy.

6. Dried Fruit

Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or apple slices are shelf-stable and offer natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.

They’re easy to snack on and can provide a quick energy boost during a winter storm.

Plus, they don’t take up much space in your pantry.

7. Canned Fruit

Canned fruit is another thing that I got in my packed school lunch basically every day when I was a kid.

Canned peaches, pineapples, and pears are another great no-prep snack that provides hydration, vitamins, and natural sugars for energy.

Opt for fruits canned in water or their own juice rather than syrup for a healthier option.

Depending on the brand, you might need to have a manual can opener on hand for canned fruit.

8. Nut Butter Packs

Individual nut butter packs, such as almond, peanut, or cashew butter, are perfect for portion control and require no utensils.

These packs provide healthy fats and protein to keep you full and satisfied during a storm.

They pair well with crackers, rice cakes, or fruit.

9. Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are another essential emergency winter storm snack.

They’re lightweight, long-lasting, and can be eaten plain or topped with spreads like nut butter or canned tuna.

A very versatile snack with a satisfying crunch that adds a bit of variety to your emergency pantry.

They’re also great with peanut and other nut butter spreads.

10. Jerky

Jerky, whether it’s beef, turkey, plant-based or chicken jerky, is a high-protein snack that requires no preparation and has a long shelf life.

It’s portable and easy to store, making it an ideal option for emergencies.

Jerk also comes in various flavors, so you can stock up on your favorites. Just be aware that jerky, especially beef jerky, is high in sodium nitrates.

11. Canned Beans

Canned beans like black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans can be eaten straight from the can.

They’re packed with protein, fiber and essential nutrients, making them a filling and nutritious snack.

Add some salt, pepper and steak seasoning if the beans are too bland for you on their own.

12. Crackers and Canned Cheese Spread

Canned cheese spreads are a savory, no-prep snack option for any winter pantry that pairs well with crackers or rice cakes.

The cheese spread adds a source of fats and a bit of protein, which is tasty and filling, although it should be consumed in moderation.

13. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is another pantry-friendly treat that lasts a long time and offers antioxidants along with a quick energy boost.

Choose a bar with higher cacao content for added health benefits.

It’s a great snack to satisfy your sweet tooth during a winter storm.

14. Shelf-Stable Pudding Cups

Pudding cups are another sweet snack that doesn’t need refrigeration.

They come in various flavors, like chocolate and vanilla, offering a comforting treat.

These cups are perfect for a quick, satisfying dessert that you can enjoy straight from the pantry.

15. Chocolate Milk Mix

Chocolate milk powder is another highly versatile pantry staple that can be used to make a delicious, quick snack.

Simply mix the powder with shelf-stable milk, or even water if milk is unavailable, for a cold chocolate drink.

I also like sprinkling the mix on dry snacks like nuts, granola, or oatmeal.

16. Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are a small, nutrient-dense snack that’s perfect for winter storms.

They are rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Shelled or unshelled, sunflower seeds are easy to store and can be eaten right out of the bag.

I also like them because they help keep your mouth busy if you’re looking for something to munch on during a winter storm power outage, which can become monotonous.