Baking with children - A fun and educational activity

Baking with children is a great activity that engages and develops their motor skills and creativity. Whether you make simple recipes or something more advanced, you'll create memories and have a great time together. Here we share our top tips and recipes to make baking with kids both fun and successful.

Tips for baking with children

Baking with children can require a bit of preparation and patience, but it is certainly worth it. Here are some useful tips for successful baking while creating a safe and fun environment.

1. safety first

Safety is paramount. When baking with children, make sure to clearly explain which steps are safe for children to do and which are for adults only, such as using the oven or handling knives.

2. mess-free clothing

Baking with children often involves spills and messes. Prepare by dressing everyone in aprons or loose clothing, so you can fully enjoy without worrying about stains.

3. prepare ingredients and utensils

Prepare all the ingredients and utensils in advance. This will make the baking process smoother, especially if the children are young and may find it difficult to wait.

4. make it playful

Let your imagination run wild and make baking a game. Pretend you're on a baking programme - use presenter voices and explain each step. The kids will love being part of the 'show'!

Easy and fun recipes to bake with kids

Here are some recipes that are perfect for baking with children. They're simple, delicious and enjoyed by young and old alike.

Chocolate balls without white sugar

Cooking time: about 45 minutes

A healthier alternative where the chocolate balls are sweetened with dates. A perfect recipe to bake with children - smooth and gooey!

Ingredients:

• 15-20 dates
• 5 dl oatmeal
• 1 1/5 dl coconut oil or butter
• 4-5 tbsp cold coffee (or water)
• 3 tbsp cocoa
• Coconut to roll in

Do this:

1. Mix the dates and oats to a sticky mass.
2. Add the cocoa, coconut oil and liquid.
3. Shape into balls and roll in coconut.
4. Leave to rest in the fridge before serving.

Banana pancakes

Cooking time: about 15 minutes

Simple and nutritious banana pancakes are a perfect choice for baking with children.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 eggs
• A little salt
• 2 tbsp butter

Do this:

1. Mash the banana in a pile.
2. Add the eggs and mix into a batter.
3. Fry into patties and serve with jam or syrup.

Tips: For variety, flavour with cinnamon or cardamom.

For children who don't like bananas? Replace the banana with 1 dl cottage cheese and 1 dl oatmeal.

Simple scones - a favourite to bake with kids

Cooking time: about 30 minutes

Scones are always a favourite with children. They are quick to bake and can be varied according to taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 dl wheat flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 dl milk
• 50 g butter

Do this:

1. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Work in the butter and add the milk.
3. Shape the scones and bake in the oven for 10 minutes.

Tips: Add blueberries, seeds or dried fruit for extra flavour.

Why bake with children?

Baking with children is more than just a fun activity. It teaches them about measurements and proportions, strengthens their fine motor skills and gives them confidence when they see the results of their labour.

Read more about activities for children, healthy snacks for children

Written by Felicia, Hey Kiddo