There’s something magical about baking with kids. Sure, it’s a little messy (okay, a lot messy), but the memories made are always worth the flour on the floor and sprinkles in the hair. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of cookies or decorating cupcakes, baking together is a fun way to teach, connect, and create something delicious as a team.
Why Baking with Kids is So Special
Baking teaches more than just how to measure flour or crack an egg. It’s a hands-on lesson in patience, math, creativity, and following directions. Plus, kids get to feel a sense of accomplishment when they see—and taste—the results of their hard work.
Tips for Baking with Kids:
- Keep it simple. Choose easy recipes with basic ingredients to avoid overwhelm.
- Assign age-appropriate tasks. Younger kids can pour and mix, while older kids can handle measuring and decorating.
- Make it an experience. Turn on music, wear fun aprons, and don’t stress about the mess.
- Let them be creative. Whether it’s frosting cupcakes or cutting cookie shapes, encourage their imagination.
- Celebrate the finished product. Sit down together to enjoy what you made—it’s the sweetest reward of all.
And if you’re looking for a fun and easy recipe to try, this next one is a hit with little bakers!
Mini Vanilla Cake with White Frosting & Dried Berries
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 –2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings:
- Dried strawberries
- Dried raspberries
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a small 6-inch round cake pan.
- Mix the cake batter: In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and vanilla, then stir in milk. Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make the frosting: Beat the butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Decorate: Frost the cooled cake and top with crushed or whole dried strawberries and raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
Let your kids do the decorating—they’ll love placing the berries on top and creating their own little masterpiece.
Baking with kids is about more than just treats—it’s about connection, laughter, and a little flour in unexpected places. So tie on those aprons, grab the mixing bowls, and make something sweet together today. ?
