Celebrating special occasions with a baby can be joyful, but it also comes with challenges - especially around food. Whether it’s New Year, birthdays, or family gatherings in Malta, offering baby-safe, delicious snacks ensures your little one can join in safely and happily.

Why Baby-Friendly Foods Matter

Babies under three have sensitive digestive systems and are still developing chewing skills. Offering age-appropriate, allergen-aware, and safe foods not only keeps them healthy but also lets them participate in the celebration - an important milestone in family bonding.

1. Fresh Fruit Bites 

• Examples: Banana slices, seedless grapes (quartered lengthwise), soft pear or peach cubes

  How to serve:

  • Babies (6–9 months): Large soft slices or wedges they can grip

  • Older babies (9–12 months): Thick finger-length pieces

  • Toddlers: Small bite-sized cubes

  Local twist:
  Use seasonal Maltese fruits such as oranges, clementines, or figs (remove membranes and skin).

2. Mini Cheese & Yogurt Snacks 

• Cheese: Mild mozzarella or cheddar
  Yogurt: Plain, full-fat yogurt mixed with mashed fruit

  How to serve:

  • Cut cheese into very small cubes or thin strips

  • Serve yogurt with a pre-loaded spoon for babies learning to self-feed

  • Always supervise and avoid sticky clumps

  Safety note:
  Avoid honey under 1 year. Introduce dairy gradually if new.

  Local tip:
  Lightly toasted ħobż tal-Malti cut into soft, bite-sized cubes for older toddlers.

  

3. Soft Veggie Sticks 

• Examples: Steamed carrot, zucchini, pumpkin

  How to serve:

  • Steam until very soft (can be squashed between fingers)

  • Cut into thick finger-length sticks for babies

  • Cut into small cubes for toddlers

  Serving tip:
  Serve slightly warm or at room temperature to enhance flavour.

   
  

4. Mini Muffins or Rice Cakes 

• Ingredients: Oats, mashed banana, apple purée, carrot, zucchini

  How to serve:

  • Bake or prepare mini versions with no added sugar

  • Break into small bite-sized pieces

  • Offer one piece at a time to avoid overstuffing
    
    

  

5. Baby-Friendly Drinks 

• Options: Water, milk, or very diluted fruit juice (for older babies and toddlers)

  How to serve:

  • Use age-appropriate sippy cups or open cups

  • Offer small amounts at a time

  • Avoid bottles during active play or countdown moments

  Local flavour:
  Add a few drops of freshly squeezed Maltese orange or peach juice for flavour only.

Bonus Tips for Parents

1. Avoid choking hazards – nuts, whole grapes, hard candies, popcorn

2. Allergy awareness – introduce new foods cautiously

3. Festive presentation – use mini platters, colourful silicone cups, or themed toothpicks (remove for infants)

4. Family participation – toddlers can help “serve” snacks under supervision

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I cut food for babies?

Foods should be soft, easy to mash, and cut according to age—finger-length pieces for babies and bite-sized cubes for toddlers.

What are safe snacks for toddlers?

Soft fruits, steamed vegetables, plain yogurt, mild cheese, and sugar-free mini muffins are suitable when cut and served properly.

Can babies eat party food at events?

Yes, if foods are modified to be low in salt and sugar, soft in texture, and free from choking hazards.

What baby-friendly foods are common in Malta?

Seasonal fruits, soft bread like ħobż tal-Malti (for toddlers), vegetables, and homemade baked snacks are practical options.

Should babies drink juice?

Water and milk are preferred. If offering juice, dilute heavily and limit to small amounts.