Schools... Out for SUMMER!

Summer break is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen with your little ones! Baking together not only creates lasting memories but also gives kids a chance to learn new skills and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Whether you're looking to make a quick treat for an afternoon snack or a fun project that will keep everyone entertained, here are some kid-friendly baking ideas for the whole family to enjoy this summer!

1. DIY Mini Pizzas

Mini pizzas are a great way to get kids involved in baking while also allowing them to personalize their creations. Start with pre-made pizza dough or English muffins, and set up a topping station with tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, veggies, and more. Kids can spread the sauce, sprinkle cheese, and add their favorite toppings. Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly for a fun, customizable meal.

Fun Tip: Turn it into a "pizza party" and let each child create their own unique pizza masterpiece!

Decorate cupcakes with a theme for a fun twist!

2. Rainbow Cupcakes

What’s more fun than a burst of color in every bite? Rainbow cupcakes are an exciting way to bake together and create something visually stunning. Prepare a basic cupcake batter, then divide it into different bowls. Add food coloring to each bowl to create different colored layers. Spoon the batter into cupcake liners in a rainbow pattern and bake. Top with a swirl of buttercream frosting for a picture-perfect treat!

Fun Tip: Have your kids help with the mixing and layering to make the process even more fun and interactive!

3. Sugar Cookie Decorating

Sugar cookies are a classic baking project that allows kids to get as creative as they want. Start by baking a simple batch of sugar cookies in fun shapes like stars, hearts, or animals. Once they’ve cooled, set up a decorating station with various colored frostings, sprinkles, and candy. Let the kids go wild creating their own edible masterpieces!

Fun Tip: For an extra challenge, use cookie cutters to make themed cookies, like beach shapes for a summer vibe or fruit shapes for a healthy twist!

4. Ice Cream Sandwiches

What better way to cool off in the summer than by making homemade ice cream sandwiches? Bake a batch of soft, chewy cookies (chocolate chip is always a favorite or those sugar cookies from number 4) and once they’ve cooled, sandwich a scoop of ice cream in between two cookies. You can roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed-up candies for extra flair.

Fun Tip: Let the kids pick their favorite ice cream flavors and toppings to make each sandwich unique!

5. Muffin Tin Pancakes

Making pancakes in a muffin tin is a fun twist on the classic breakfast treat! Simply pour pancake batter into a greased muffin tin, add fun toppings like chocolate chips, blueberries, or even crumbled bacon, and bake in the oven. You’ll have individual, fluffy pancakes that are easy for kids to grab and enjoy.

Fun Tip: Let the kids create their own flavor combinations and decorate the top with syrup or whipped cream!

6. Cookie Decorating with Melted Chocolate

Cookies don’t have to be just about frosting! Try a fun twist on the usual by melting different types of chocolate and letting kids dip cookies into the melted chocolate. You can also drizzle the chocolate over cookies or use it as a fun "paint" to create designs.

Fun Tip: Use a variety of chocolate types like dark, milk, and white chocolate for an exciting mix of flavors and textures.

7. Banana Bread with a Twist

Banana bread is a simple and delicious baking project that kids can help with from start to finish. To make it extra fun, add mix-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried fruit. After baking, enjoy a warm slice of banana bread with a dollop of peanut butter or a drizzle of honey. It’s the perfect snack for after a day of summer fun.

Fun Tip: Let the kids help mash the bananas and mix the ingredients. It’s an easy way for little hands to get involved!

Ice Cream Cone Rice Krispie Treats

8. Rice Krispie Treats

Making homemade Rice Krispie treats is a fun and easy activity that kids will enjoy. Simply melt marshmallows and butter, mix in the Rice Krispies, and then press the mixture into fun shapes using cookie cutters. Once set, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or chocolate for a creative touch. The sweet aroma of melted marshmallows will fill your kitchen, and the kids will love getting hands-on with the process!

Fun Tip: Experiment with different flavorings like chocolate mallows or fruity pebbles, and let kids create their own unique shapes and designs for the treats.

9. S'mores Bars

For a no-fuss version of the classic campfire treat, try making s’mores bars! Layer graham cracker crumbs, chocolate, and marshmallows in a baking dish, then bake until everything melts together into a gooey, delicious treat. Slice into bars for a fun, portable dessert that everyone will love.

Fun Tip: Add in peanut butter or caramel for a delicious twist on the traditional s’mores flavor!

10. Decorative Fruit Tarts

Fruit tarts are a great way to incorporate fresh summer fruit into a fun baking project. Use pre-made tart shells or make your own crust, and then fill it with a simple custard or cream cheese filling. Let the kids decorate the top with a variety of colorful fresh fruits like berries, kiwi, and peaches for a beautiful and tasty dessert.

Fun Tip: Let each child create their own mini fruit tart with their favorite fruits and toppings.

Baking with kids during the summer is a wonderful way to spend quality time together, foster creativity, and enjoy delicious homemade treats. Whether you're making mini pizzas, decorating cookies, or assembling fruit tarts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These kid-friendly baking projects will keep your little chefs busy and excited to try new flavors and techniques. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready for some sweet summer fun in the kitchen!