At the end of another long day of working and parenting, there are few things that are more instantly relaxing than snuggling up on the couch with the TV remote in our hand. With the advent of so many streaming services, there are almost endless excellent options for binge-worthy shows and new and classic movies that we can watch in our pajamas. And we all know that, no matter what we’re watching, every nightly TV time or family movie night is instantly 100% better when snacks are involved.
From chips to a pint of ice cream (shout-out to Ben & Jerry’s Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake for always being delicious), there are some snacks that are TV-watching standards. We’re always down for a bowl of salty chips, but — no shade to the standards — sometimes we want to level up our snacking game. One fun way to do this is to look for a snack that is inspired by our favorite TV and movie characters.
Whether we’re in the mood for Housewives-of-wherever drama, a classic kids’ movie, or a funny hidden gem on Netflix, there are some fun and delicious snack ideas that will turn an ordinary TV night into a full-on theme party. Read on for the perfect snack ideas to add to the shopping cart before your next binge-watching session.
Sweet & Sour Roy
The Hungry Heist
Ocean’s 11 is a classic heist movie with more than a little delightful eye candy. In fact, we’d argue that Ocean’s 11 is peak George Clooney and Brad Pitt, and one of the fun themes of the movie is that Brad’s character, Rusty, is constantly eating. For a family movie night with Ocean’s 11 as the main attraction, we suggest paying homage to Rusty by having a spread of nachos, suckers, and mini hamburgers.
A Cartoon Classic
It’s hard to believe that the animated classic The Simpsons has been on for more than 33 years now, but it’s true! And during that time, Homer’s love for the humble doughnut has never waned. A box of doughnuts is the perfect snack for introducing a tween or teen to this classic comedy.
An Alien's Favorite Treat
We love a family movie night, and E.T. is one of those all-time classic films that still packs an emotional punch four decades after it first came out. And 40 years later, we still love E.T.’s favorite candy, the humble but tasty Reese’s Pieces. These are a great snack on their own or incorporated into an amazing cookie.
A Snack Leslie Would Approve Of
There are many things that Leslie Knope, our favorite fictional government employee from Parks and Recreation, loves: binders, Galentine’s Day, and waffles. Leslie’s favorite meal is waffles and whipped cream, which is super tasty but not always practical as a snack. We think Leslie would approve of a delicious Stroopwaffel instead.
Just Peachy
Season 14 of Real Housewives of Atlanta is set to drop in May 2022, and what could be more on-brand than having a peach-themed snack buffet to host a viewing party? We’re thinking peach bellinis, peach pie, and even some yummy gummy peach rings.
Lucky Spoon
We are so ready for the return of Bridgerton this spring! And what could be a better treat to remind us of one of the hotter moments of season one than some cool lemon sorbet? That tart treat was what Simon was oh-so-carefully licking off the spoon in episode three, much to Daphne’s distraction!
