Some of our fondest memories centre around baking with our mothers and grandmothers. Not only does baking as a child teach us how to cook, but it’s also a great way of preserving culinary traditions – and it’s also an important bonding experience. Today’s modern world may offer our kids gadgets like microwaves and ice-cream makers, but the basic lesson is the same – following simple recipes with your children can give you quality time together, get them interested in food, and even improve basic maths skills.
Most important of all, it’s a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon. With this in mind, brush up on your parenting skills and your culinary prowess at the same time by trying these quick and simple recipes out with your kids.
Make-in-the-microwave Chocolate Cake
It may surprise some mums to learn that you can create biscuits, hot puddings, or even a whole chocolate cake in that essential kitchen device, the microwave. Because of its simplicity, this recipe has instant appeal for young pastry chefs, and your kids will love the novelty of pulling a fully-formed cake out of the microwave after only five minutes!
Place 25g/1oz cocoa into a microwaveable container with 110ml/4 fl. oz boiling water and stir well (younger children may need close supervision with this step). Microwave on the highest setting for 30 seconds and stir again.
Measure out 175g/6oz sugar and 175g/6oz self-raising flour in a separate bowl. Pour in the cocoa mixture, along with 55ml/2 fl. oz vegetable oil, the same quantity of milk, and 1 (beaten) egg.
Combine well, then transfer to a greased, 8-inch microwaveable dish (choose a deep one) and set to cook for 5 minutes on high. Check, then cook for a further minute if not done.
This cake tastes great still warm with a dollop of custard, or simply leave to cool in the dish and save it for later (if you can!)
No-bake Pineapple Biscuit Pudding
Requiring no cooking time whatsoever, this fragrant and fruity dessert has plenty of cream and a whole pack of sweet Marie biscuits to tempt all ages. This pudding can be made with raw eggs, but in case of any concerns with young children, this version is egg-free.
Using 200ml whipping cream, measure out 200g/8oz powdered sugar and mix in half as you start to whip the cream, adding the other half when the cream is a light and fluffy consistency. Add approximately 130g/5 oz stewed or tinned pineapple and a teaspoon of vanilla essence.
Pour some milk into a bowl and then start dipping the Marie biscuits one-by-one, using them to line the base of a 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread a layer of the pineapple-cream on top and repeat, alternating between biscuits and the mixture (the kids will enjoy doing this bit!).
Cover the top layer in leftover whipping or squirty cream, then decorate with chocolate curls, rainbow sprinkles or whatever you fancy. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour and it’s ready to eat.
The best thing about these easy recipes for kids is that they are easy enough for beginners, but get children thinking about different quantities and learning to follow instructions. Activities in the kitchen can also be great for developing motor function in pre-schoolers with tasks like measuring and mixing. There are minimal and fairly everyday ingredients involved, but kids will love the excuse to make a bit of mess and get creative in the kitchen. Fast-forward a few years, and they might even be treating you to some biscuits of their own.