Snacks, whether at the office or not, provide us with the fuel we need for the day.
We snack when we’re hungry and we might even snack when we’re stressed (have you ever considered snacking as a technique to help stress management at work?)
We’re here today to organize the best snacking options for your teams. Snacking together at work does two things for your staff:
Satiates their personal hunger, while bringing them together as teams.
So let’s lift the lid on office snacking.
We hope you’re hungry!
What do we mean by “office snacking”?
We all need to eat something to get work done, none of us are robots. While on-site, many workers choose to eat in the building only at lunchtime. Some staff might eat snacks between working and try to keep it low-key (it’s okay, don’t worry!). This could be a missed managerial opportunity.
We hold the belief that sharing food is actually a form of thoughtfulness and care in the workplace, and staff shouldn’t need to eat snacks in hiding, worried about watching eyes!
The culture of sharing food actually helps build bonds and friendships among your teams, no doubt about it. Companies have long-used lunch-and-learn sessions for their staff, with fantastic results. Team dinners together can also show the power of food as a team-building catalyst.
So why not make the most of the potential bonding in food and organize some wonderful snack sessions?
Take a moment to understand and appreciate the power of snacking, and try our 30 snacking ideas for your teams.
Confectionaries
Simple confectionaries played a part in so many of our childhoods. Why can’t we still enjoy them as much now? Bring these into your workspace snack sessions to spread smiles contagiously:
- Chocolates: Simple and elegant chocolates offer pure indulgence and give out positive vibes. They operate like a sweet little escape from a stressful day. The great thing about them is there are so many types to choose from. Milk, dark, white, even vegan, you’re sure to please the crowd, no matter the size! Scatter small boxes of them around the office as quick pick-me-ups or a mid-afternoon indulgence. Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get (but why not check the in-box menu?). Enjoy
- Candies: Keep confectionery simple and get assorted candies ready. They’re colorful bursts of joy that brighten any workday. Fruity gummies, sour apple rock, Skittles and jellybeans, we can’t think of any limit on candies to choose from. Vegan-friendly and gelatin-free candies are in massive supply these days, so you can please everyone. On an aesthetic level, colored candies grant a bright boost to the office vibrancy, so offer them out. What is there to lose?
- Fudge: If you want to get deeper into indulgence then rich, creamy brownies are a fantastic way to go about it. Luxurious chocolatey layers of fudge supply sugary boosts of comfort that turn any office day into something special. It isn’t too hard to source vegan-friendly brownies either, just keep them in a separate tray for the day. There’s the classic chocolate fudge, or there are lovely variations like salted caramel. Fudge is a great break from stressful spreadsheets and emails.
- Marshmallows: Roll back the clock for your older staff who used to roast marshmallows by the campfire as a kid. A fluffy, cloud-like marshmallow pairs perfectly with coffee and hot chocolate. It might be a little harder to source vegan-friendly options, but it’s worth a look! Keep a bag on hand and also heaped up in bright bowls. Brighten up everyone’s day with a stockpile of marshmallows, the s’more the merrier!
Pastries
Parties come in a million shapes and sizes, there isn’t really a limit to the things they’re packed with. Let’s lay out the most scrumptious pastries to bring to your snack session:
- Snack pies: Pocket-sized snack pies are a lovely way to satiate workplace hunger. Whether you’re into apple, cherry, or something a little out of the ordinary, like mince and cream or pumpkin, there’s something for everyone in a little pie. They’re great as a mid-morning escape or after-lunch satisfaction provider. They’re so easy to package and leave minimal mess. They’re easy to share (if you’re feeling particularly generous) and even easier to enjoy. Provide some homely comfort food with a little pie joy.
- Churros: If your staff are into cinnamon dust and want to snack on something extra-satisfying, churros make for a great choice. Hailing from Spain a long time ago, they’re now extremely popular in most of Mexico, and considering how they taste, we can see why. They’re slightly heavier and denser than most of our other snacks, so bear that in mind if the day’s tasks are demanding! They pair magnificently with coffee and are sometimes dished up with a chocolate dip. Our mouths are watering just thinking about having Churros in the office.
- Pineapple cakes: These pineapple-infused pastries of joy brighten up the day of anyone who partakes in them. Hailing from Taiwan, they delightfully mix buttery pastry with a citrusy pineapple tanginess. They’re incredibly popular across Asia, but if you’ve never been then it’s not super likely your staff have tried them. You should trust us as we tell you how refreshing and satisfying they are (no, we’re not eating them as we speak! Honest!). Not too sweet and not too tangy, just right. These are a great office snack to offer to everyone.
- Scones: Now we’re listing a snack that carries a bit of British charm. They’re made to go with (afternoon) tea and if you’ve never tried one, you’re in for something special. They are pocket-sized, stubby little cakes that are often rammed with berries. Pairing them with butter, clotted cream and jam is a match made in heaven, and when you’re in the right mood they can’t be beaten. A scone break is the ultimate indulgence. (Just don’t try to figure
Cookie snacks
Cookies are beloved by children and are made by everyone’s favorite grandma. They have a deep history and culture right across the world, but we’re looking at ones you can use to strengthen your workplace culture. Enjoy these:
- Chocolate chip cookies: We’re hard-pressed to find someone who simply doesn’t like cookies. I mean, what’s there to not love about them? Do you also remember simpler times, when you had Saturday morning cookies with your cartoons and stayed in your pajamas til 11 am? Cookies are the ultimate comfort snack, and they don’t need to just be chocolate-chip either. Oatmeal and raisin, white chocolate and raspberry, there’s just so much variety in the sweetest cookie treats. You simply can’t go wrong with freshly baked cookies for an office snack!
- Shortbread biscuits: Hailing from the highlands of Scotland, these are similar to cookies but usually baked in a longer stick shape and are more buttery-tasting. If any of your staff haven’t tried authentic Scottish shortbread, they’re missing out. They often come in beautifully decorated tins and boxes too which make them look rather luxurious. Indulge with your teams for a while and break up some shortbreads. Totally worth it!
- Pinwheel cookies: The funky little cookies were incredibly popular 100 years ago, and for some people, hold lots of tradition and culture. They’re not the most complicated cookie in the world, but they’re lovely to look at (and eat!). Pinwheel cookies are usually swirled with two flavors (hence the “pinwheel” name) like chocolate and vanilla and new variations like mint and cream. They’re pleasing on the eye, and not too unhealthy on the stomach. Decorate the office with pinwheel cookies and put your staff in a satisfying spin.
- Oreos: Our last cookie recommendation for your office snack time is the iconic Oreo. Can you think of one person who hasn’t tried one? We’re struggling… Oreos need no introduction. They’re small, sweet and packed with a delicious creamy filling. You might twist them before eating, or dunk them in your cup of tea. Have you ever seen the special edition commemorative Oreos? The Red Velvet Editions were our favorite, simply delicious!
Snack cakes
We’ve got a pair of awesome little snack cakes that bring a unique taste from around the world to your office. Sometimes picking up a certain brand can help spark conversations between people who both enjoy the product. Try these ones:
- Gansito (Mexican snack cake with filling): The Gansito cake is cherished across Mexico by children and adults alike. Bring a fiesta to your tastebuds with a soft sponge cake filled with strawberry jam and a layer of cream. Choosing a brand that resonates with a few of your team members adds a little personal touch, so keep an ear out for anyone who knows the glory of a Gansito! They’ll be cherished by newcomers to the cake too!
- Jaffa cakes (UK special!): We haven’t yet met a Brit who didn’t love tucking into a few Jaffa Cakes. They’re not extremely well-known around the world but they should be. Their distinct dark topping is filled with orange jelly (or jello) on top of a Genoise sponge base. They’re simple and yet magnificent, the Brits cherish them, and so should others! Keep an eye out for them in the import isles of your supermarket wherever you are in the world. Your snackers will thank you for it!
- Chocopie: Chocopie is a brand that is skyrocketing across Asia. The term might have actually originated in the US, but now they’re absolutely everywhere in South Korea, China and Vietnam. If you’ve never tried one, they’re a simple little circle of deliciousness: two small soft cakes with a marshmallow filling and a thin layer of chocolate around. We love them, and we think you will too. If you see them, buy them before they’re gone!
Batter and dough-based
Leading on from our cake snacks, these ones are certainly a bit heavier and should be enjoyed by everyone (in moderation!). Doughy and hearty snacks often really please stressed-out people, which could be exactly what your hard-working teams sometimes need!
- Donuts: Oh my lord, the holy donut graces us! Have you ever looked at a brightly decorated donut and felt a sense of uplifting? We have. Donuts are a historical gem and are found in cultures across the four corners of the globe. Their versatility is their strength, and there are more flavors of donuts than you can shake a stick out. They’re perfect for sharing in a box among your teams.
- Pancakes: Now we arrive at the beloved pancake. Records of them actually descend as far back as the ancient Greeks and Romans. In modern times, however, a lot of countries wonder what really makes a “true pancake”. The Brits enjoy them on Pancake Day with lemon, sugar and ice cream, while Americans enjoy them with honey and butter. Use this variance to your advantage by offering all sorts of them as office snacks. They’re satisfying and extremely simple to make. Enjoy!
- Banana fritter: Another historical and intriguing global snack is the modest banana fritter. First created by the Portuguese who enjoyed them for breakfast, they later spread to Southeast Asia and are incredibly popular. But enough history! Banana fritters as a workplace snack are wholesome and satisfying, using batter to create something crispy yet gooey. Give these a whirl for your next office indulgence and watch smiles spread all around.
Cheesy snacks
Now we’re getting cheesy with it! Cheese is a great way to boost office happiness levels for those who enjoy it (which might actually be everyone). These pair with bread snacks fantastically.
- Cream cheese: Cream cheese is loved the world over, in New York they spread it on bagels, and in England they smother it onto carrot cake. Its smooth, sweet and tangy taste is a testament to its popularity. The limit of things it matches with is boundless, try it with crackers or just dip vegetables into a tub of it! It isn’t the healthiest snack in the world but it sure is pleasant!
- String cheese: String cheese (branded as Cheesestrings in some places) is a simple and playful choice of snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. It’s easily packaged and peelable, making it super convenient for a busy office. String cheese is mozzarella-based, so it’s packed with flavor. It’s always been a solid choice for lunchboxes and company picnics too as it’s relatively nutrient-dense, with 85 calories in one string. This could give a cheeky and pleasant boost to all of your in-office staff.
- Cheese balls: Now we’re talking versatility. Cheese balls offer countless options for vegetarians. They’re usually just a combination of two different kinds: cream cheese for its softness and malleability, and grated semi-soft cheese like cheddar or Monterey jack. From here, you can springboard into adding wonderful vegetables to complement the taste. Spring onions, bell peppers, paprika and onion are staple choices, but get as versatile as you want! Just don’t exercise straight after!
- Charcuterie board: Our final cheese offer is basically a whole collection (or “Smorgasbord”) of cheeses to tickle every tastebud. The charcuterie board hails from France, but it is loved in every corner of Europe. It’s traditionally served on a wooden flat board, without any extra bowls or dishes. You assort a collection of cheeses, from simple to adventurous onto the board, and pair it with anything that complements the cheese. Typically you’d add dry crackers, pickles, french pate, fruits, chilies, whatever YOU feel goes well with cheese. Great choice for a group lunch with your teams.
Plant-based and vegan-friendly snacks
These next snacks are perfect for your more health-conscious team members and are even worth pairing with your office wellness programs. Don’t underestimate vegan options for snacking, even if you’re just curious to try.
- Granola bars: Kicking off the vegan options are lovely little bars and bowls of granola goodness. Granola typically consists of oats, nuts unrefined oil, seeds, and dried fruits. Sometimes spices are added to add a twist to their clean and healthy taste, so when you choose granola as an office snack you’ve got countless options. Paired with vegan-friendly yogurt or ice cream, you’re on to a real winner. Get your office breakfast energy right for the day with granola!
- Fruit smoothies: Colourful and nutritious fruit smoothies should never be overlooked as healthy energizers for work teams. Refreshing, nutrient-packed and extremely versatile, we could talk all day about the strengths of fruit smoothies. Fitness centers are opening smoothie bars inside the gym and pairing the drink with protein powders and wonderfully flavored syrups (double-check these for vegan-friendliness if you use them!). Adding crushed ice and vegan yogurts, you’re really cooking with gas. Try now!
- Hummus and veggies: Hummus is an ancient food source that contains nothing but vegan-friendly nutritional goodness. Its ingredients are usually chickpeas, tahini, olive oil and lemon juice. Add some garlic and chillies too for a kick! Once you’ve got it blended into a paste, just dip vegetables into it to your heart’s content. Stockpile veggies like carrots, cucumbers and vegetables for the snacking hour and you’ll actually be stocking up on team satisfaction simultaneously.
- Falafel: Your vegan staff will certainly know that sometimes they need to eat substantially. Falafel is the perfect option for those looking to stay plant-based while still getting full nourishment for the day ahead. Falafel are golden little crispy balls that pair fantastically with cool ming-yogurt dips and tangy citrus. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside is how we like them. They’re absolutely delicious and offer the perfect plant-based boost to snack time.
Meaty snacks
Vegan-friendly options are great, but many of us still need to meet the day’s nutrient quota with meat. These still work well alongside vegan offerings, just of course keep everything separate from one another. Meaty snacks incoming!
- Jerky: When you crave something meaty, salty and comforting, jerky is the go-to for millions of people. One great thing about jerky is how many cultures appreciate it and create their own variations on it. South Africans call it “biltong” and some parts of China call it “Bak Kwa.” There are a million different ways to prepare and enjoy it, which can really spice up office snack time. Italian styles of jerky are our favorites, the Romans really know how to cure their deli meat!
- Dried seafood: Similarly to jerky’s dried meats, dried seafood is cherished around the world by millions. Once again there are ample variations, using sea life like dried squid, shrimp and tuna. Especially adored in Asian countries, they often give a real kick to their dried seafood with lemongrass herbs and fiery chilies. They are nutritionally dense and provide a healthy snack option for the more adventurous among your teams. Umami flavors await with a seafood snack selection!
- Deli meat snack: Slightly different from highly dried and cured jerky meat, deli meats as a snack give so much variety. Paired with some of our earlier options like cheeses and breads, you’re guaranteed to bring a smile to the workplace with this. Cold-cut meats like salami and pepperoni go so well with hummus, cheese, pickles and breads that this just can’t be overlooked! Protein-rich and nutritionally packed, a deli meat selection will tide any hungry team over (at least for a few hours!). Give a delicious deli meat selection a try.
- Pork pies: Our final snack recommendation is more of a pie, but it is absolutely packed with pork mincemeat and is (mostly) adored by the people of the UK. The east midlands of England traditionally eat them for Christmas breakfast, and we think if everyone tried, the rest of the world would adore them too. They come both small and large, have a flaky crust and an indulgent taste that needs to be tried to be believed. Don’t underestimate a lovely pork pie selection for a standout office snack with a punch!
Interested in building bonds through snacking? Try it on a team retreat!
So you’re interested in the myriad of ways to bring teams together and solidify their bonds? Snacking is one way, but gathering everyone together for a few days on a team-building retreat is the ultimate experience for boosting teamwork. You could even combine our snack ideas together while on a retreat!
Here at Surf Office, organizing work retreats is what we do best. A twice-annual retreat for your teams provides an unforgettable and productive environment that helps stress melt away like a cube of sugar in a swimming pool.
Here’s what we offer:
- Stress-free transfers? We got you! ✅
- Quality-assured accommodations? Check! ✅
- Engaging team-building activities? Our speciality ✅
- Restaurant reservations? That's on us! ✅
- Expert retreat planning assistance? Of course, we have this covered! ✅
- Onsite support, tailored to your needs? Absolutely ✅
Not only this but we also have access to 160+ locations around Europe, APAC, the US, Latin America, and now Africa, meaning the sky is your limit when it comes to choosing the right location for you and your team.
If you’re as interested as us in teambuilding, you know that working, playing and eating together as one unit. Down-time is as important as work-time for healthy teams, and enjoying food together while away for a few days is a perfect way to do it.
Let us sort out the tricky logistics for you. Spaces are very limited, so get in touch now!
