The holiday season is the perfect time to create memories with family and friends. It's a time for gathering, sharing laughter, and enjoying special moments together. With so many holidays involving food, much of our time is spent in the kitchen. Whether you're baking cookies, preparing a festive feast, or experimenting with new recipes, involving the kids can create lasting memories!
Letting kids help in the kitchen can teach them valuable skills, healthy habits and encourage creativity. Many basic skills are involved in the cooking and baking process, such as measuring, stirring and following directions. Kids also are more likely to try new foods if they help prepare them, so this is a great opportunity to develop healthy habits by including nutritious ingredients in your dishes. Whether you're making snacks, a dessert, or a side dish, cooking allows kids to experiment with different flavors, colors, and textures.
Gluten Free Original Chex Party Mix is a classic and versatile holiday recipe. Simple, easy, and allergy-friendly, this recipe is one that kids of all ages can be involved in making. Serve it as an appetizer spread, a Christmas movie night snack or make it into a craft. After preparing your Chex mix, put it into a glass jar, tie a festive ribbon around it and give it away as gifts or party favors from the kids.
Another recipe kids of all ages can be involved in is baking cookies. These Black and White Peppermint Cookies from Sweet Loren's take holiday treats to a new level while being allergy friendly. Sweet Loren's refrigerated cookie dough is preportioned, plant-based and free of the top 14 allergens, including gluten, dairy, peanuts and tree nuts. Bake the perfect cookie in minutes or enjoy raw.
Have your kids get creative by decorating the cookies with crushed candy canes, chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips. They can be served as a Christmas dessert or put the cookies into a festive holiday tin and given as gifts from the kids.
The holiday season can go by in a flash. Don't forget to involve your kids in the kitchen. It is a great opportunity to develop healthier habits and get your little ones comfortable in the kitchen.
Save the date to join our KidsFit in the Kitchen with Hy-Vee Dietitians virtual cooking class. These classes are led by Hy-Vee registered dietitians who will teach your child basic kitchen skills with simple, follow along recipes, recommended for children ages 5 to 12. This month's class will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 11. Can't attend live? All those who register will receive a recording of this month's class. Register today!