Are you and your little ones looking for some sweet treats to enjoy together? Look no further! Baking with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience, teaching them important skills like measurement, following instructions, and creativity. And who doesn’t love the end result – delicious homemade goodies that are perfect for snacking or sharing?
In this article, we’ll share 20 fun and easy baking recipes that are perfect for kids of all ages to get involved with. From classic treats like cookies and cupcakes to creative concoctions like monster mouth rice krispie treats and fruit pizza, there’s something on this list for every young baker.
So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, and let’s get started!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats that combine the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with a creamy, no-bake dough. Perfect for snacking on the go or as a dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to set.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes.
7. Enjoy your delicious cookie dough bites!
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake treats are ready to devour straight from the fridge.
Rainbow Sprinkle Cupcakes
Brighten up anyone’s day with these vibrant cupcakes featuring a rainbow of sprinkles on top. Moist vanilla cake, topped with a fluffy buttercream frosting and a generous helping of colorful sprinkles, makes for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Rainbow sprinkles for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with buttercream frosting and rainbow sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Apple Pie Pockets
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these adorable mini apple pie pockets, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1-2 medium-sized)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares.
4. Place a tablespoon of the apple mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the apples, forming a triangle or a pocket shape. Press edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Brush tops with melted butter and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars
A classic no-bake treat that’s perfect for snacking on the go! These chewy bars are packed with peanut butter flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter until well combined.
2. Add the honey and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and pecans (if using).
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready when you are.
Vanilla Funfetti Mug Cake
A delightful and quick treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1-2 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
• Funfetti sprinkles for topping
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. If desired, add 1-2 drops of yellow food coloring to give it a funfetti hue!
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 15 seconds (or adjust according to your microwave’s power).
5. Remove from the microwave and top with Funfetti sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 1 minute and 15 seconds
Banana Bread Muffins
Moist and delicious banana bread muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe uses ripe bananas to add natural sweetness and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Easy Homemade Pretzels
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with this simple recipe for classic homemade pretzels! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying soft, buttery, and salty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape. Place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Brush with melted butter and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
These sweet and tangy skewers are perfect for a summer party or a quick dessert. Fresh strawberries, shortcake, and whipped cream come together in a fun and easy-to-eat treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 12 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks.
2. Cut shortcake biscuits into 1-inch pieces.
3. Thread a shortcake piece, followed by a strawberry slice, and then another shortcake piece onto each skewer.
4. Top each skewer with a dollop of whipped cream.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Chocolate Dipped Marshmallow Pops
Elevate your snack game with these adorable and delicious chocolate dipped marshmallow pops. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of mini marshmallows
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
– 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate
– Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Dip the top of each marshmallow into the melted white chocolate, leaving a small portion at the base untouched.
3. Place the dipped marshmallows onto parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Melt the milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip the exposed end of each marshmallow into the melted milk chocolate, covering completely.
6. Insert a lollipop stick or wooden skewer into the base of each pop.
7. Optional: Add sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to the top of each pop for extra flair.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe involves melting and dipping chocolates.
Three-Ingredient Nutella Brownies
Satisfy your cravings with these rich and fudgy Three-Ingredient Nutella Brownies that require minimal effort but maximum indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (250ml) Nutella
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and Nutella until smooth.
3. Add the softened butter to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Sweet and fluffy donut holes infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a touch of sugar – perfect for a morning treat or afternoon snack!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and yeast.
3. Add lukewarm milk, melted butter, beaten egg, and ground cinnamon. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of the batter into the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove donut holes from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. While still warm, toss donut holes in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon to coat evenly.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Whipped Cream and Berry Parfait
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this simple yet impressive Whipped Cream and Berry Parfait recipe. Layers of creamy whipped cream, sweet mixed berries, and crunchy granola create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined.
3. Cut the mixed berries into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
4. Spoon a layer of whipped cream into a glass or parfait dish.
5. Top the whipped cream with a layer of mixed berries, followed by a sprinkle of granola.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 one more time, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Lemonade Stand Cookies
Bring a taste of sunshine to your cookie jar with these bright and citrusy treats, perfect for a lemonade stand or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Monster Mouth Rice Krispie Treats
Create a spooky-ooky treat that’s sure to delight kids of all ages! These bite-sized Monster Mouth Rice Krispie Treats are easy to make and perfect for Halloween parties or trick-or-treaters.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallow creme
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green food coloring (optional)
– White chocolate chips and edible eyes (for eyes and mouth)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallow creme and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
4. Pour in Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. If desired, add green food coloring to tint the treats.
6. Press mixture into a 9×13 inch pan lined with parchment paper.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
8. Use melted white chocolate to create eyes and mouth on Rice Krispie treats.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are the perfect pick-me-up to keep you going throughout the day. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried pumpkin, they’re also infused with a hint of warm spices for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup dried pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, almonds, and pumpkin puree.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until warm and runny.
3. Add the chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the honey and whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
5. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Frozen Yogurt Covered Grapes
Perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of grapes with the creaminess of frozen yogurt. With just a few ingredients, you can create a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup seedless red or green grapes
– 1/2 cup frozen yogurt (plain or flavored)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grapes under cold water, pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Spoon a small amount of frozen yogurt onto each grape, covering about half of its surface.
3. If desired, drizzle a tiny bit of honey over the yogurt for extra sweetness.
4. Place the coated grapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
A classic twist on the traditional thumbprint cookie, these treats combine the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of jelly for a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Jelly or jam for filling (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill with jelly or jam.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Oat Granola Bars
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack by making these easy-to-make honey oat granola bars.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, flour, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, almonds, salt, and baking soda. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Chocolate Pancake Stacks
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s sure to impress! These bite-sized stacks of fluffy pancakes, rich chocolate, and crunchy toppings are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Fresh berries or whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop small spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
7. Stack pancakes with chocolate chips and top with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Fruit Pizza with Sugar Cookie Crust
Create a sweet and colorful dessert by combining a sugar cookie crust with fresh fruit toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, banana)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the cookie crust to cool completely.
6. Arrange your desired fruits on top of the cooled cookie crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get your little ones excited about baking with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make treats! From classic cookies to creative cupcakes, this collection has something for every young baker. Try making Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites, Rainbow Sprinkle Cupcakes, or Mini Apple Pie Pockets. Or get creative with No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars, Vanilla Funfetti Mug Cake, or Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. And don’t forget the sweet treats like Banana Bread Muffins, Easy Homemade Pretzels, and Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. With recipes this fun and easy, your kids will be begging to get into the kitchen and start baking!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
