10 ’60s Snacks That Made Every School Lunch Better

The 1960s were a time when simple snacks ruled school lunchboxes. Parents filled brown paper bags with treats that kids couldn’t wait to eat during their lunch breaks. Many of these snacks have become nostalgic favorites, reminding us of a time when sugary, salty, and creative snacks made lunchtime special.

Hostess CupCakes

Hostess CupCakes were a favorite dessert for kids in the ’60s, offering a rich chocolate treat with a signature swirl of white icing on top. The cream-filled center made each bite indulgent, and they were the perfect ending to a homemade lunch.

Parents loved their convenience, while kids appreciated the combination of soft cake and sweet filling. The cupcakes were individually wrapped, making them easy to toss into lunchboxes without much effort.

Planters Cheese Balls

Planters Cheese Balls came in bright blue cans and were known for their crunchy texture and bold cheesy flavor. Kids loved popping these small, puffed balls into their mouths, while their orange residue left on fingers became a playful badge of honor during lunch breaks.

These snacks were light but satisfying, making them a go-to choice for parents looking for an easy addition to lunchboxes. Their iconic flavor remains a nostalgic memory for anyone who enjoyed them in the ’60s.

Tang Drink Mix

Tang became a lunchtime staple thanks to its association with the space program. This orange-flavored powder could be mixed with water to create a refreshing drink. Its sweet and tangy taste made it a favorite for kids, who loved the idea of drinking what astronauts did.

Tang was practical for parents too, as it lasted long and didn’t need refrigeration. The bright orange color and space-age appeal made it one of the most iconic beverages of the decade.

Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies

Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies offered the perfect mix of soft oatmeal cookies and creamy filling. These individually wrapped treats were a sweet addition to any school lunch, providing a comforting and satisfying dessert for kids.

Their balance of chewy cookies and smooth cream filling made them stand out from other snacks. For many, these pies became a symbol of homemade-tasting desserts in a convenient package.

Pop-Tarts

Pop-Tarts were a groundbreaking snack in the ’60s, offering a quick and portable treat that could be eaten straight from the package or toasted for added flavor. With fruity fillings and frosted or plain crusts, they quickly became a hit among kids.

Parents loved their versatility, as they worked as both a breakfast and lunch option. The bright flavors like strawberry and blueberry made them a fun and memorable part of lunchtime.

Jell-O Cups

Jell-O Cups brought a little wiggly fun to school lunches. These pre-packaged desserts came in a variety of fruity flavors and were easy for kids to eat with a spoon. Their bright colors and sweet taste made them a fun treat for lunchtime.

The cups were mess-free and portable, making them a practical choice for parents. Kids loved the playful texture, and Jell-O became a classic snack for lunchboxes throughout the decade.

Baby Ruth Bars

Baby Ruth Bars were a candy bar classic, combining peanuts, caramel, and nougat covered in chocolate. Their rich, satisfying flavor made them a popular choice for a sweet treat in lunchboxes. Kids enjoyed the chewy and crunchy textures that made every bite an adventure.

Parents appreciated the individually wrapped bars, which made them easy to pack. Baby Ruth Bars became one of the most recognizable candy options of the ’60s, with a flavor that left a lasting impression.

Fritos Corn Chips

Fritos Corn Chips were a salty snack that added a satisfying crunch to school lunches. Made from fried cornmeal, they had a bold flavor that paired well with sandwiches or could be eaten on their own.

Their small, scooped shape made them fun to eat, and they were a versatile snack that kids never tired of. Fritos were an affordable and reliable option that parents often included in lunches.

Moon Pies

Moon Pies combined graham crackers, marshmallow filling, and a chocolate coating, creating a dessert that was both filling and delicious. Kids loved their gooey texture and sweet flavor, making them a staple of ’60s lunchboxes.

These snacks offered a little taste of indulgence during school days. Their individually wrapped packaging made them easy to toss into lunches, and they’ve remained a nostalgic treat ever since.

Pixy Stix

Pixy Stix were pure fun in a straw. These sugary powder-filled tubes came in fruity flavors and were a hit among kids who loved the instant burst of sweetness. They were more of a treat than a full snack, but they added excitement to any lunch.

Parents appreciated their affordability, while kids loved trading and comparing flavors. Pixy Stix turned a simple lunch break into a moment of pure, sugary joy.