The summer holidays are finally here! For many parents, this signals weeks of fun, and for many busy parents the big question of "What are we going to do with the kids today?" Keeping children entertained, engaged, and away from screens for extended periods can be a delightful challenge. But what if we told you that the secret to happy little ones (and a moment of peace for you!) could be found right in your kitchen?
This summer, let's turn up the fun by bringing your children into the wonderful world of baking. And don't worry, we're not talking about complicated recipes with endless steps. At Sally's Baked with Love, we believe that delicious treats can also be simple to create, especially when little hands are involved!
We've put together an easy, cheesecake-inspired activity that is perfect for budding bakers. These ideas focus on fun, minimal fuss, and maximum deliciousness – making memories that taste as good as they look!
No-Bake Mini Cheesecake Cups: Little Layers of Joy!
This is the ultimate kid-friendly cheesecake project because it requires no oven, just assembly and chilling.
What you'll need:
• Crushed biscuits (Digestives, Oreos, shortbread – choose your favourite!)
• Melted butter (just enough to bind the crumbs)
• Cream cheese filling (you can make a simple mix of cream cheese, a little icing sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract, or for ultimate ease, consider ordering a small pot of our cheesecake filling directly from Sally's – contact us to discuss!)
• Small ramekins
• Toppings galore! (fresh berries, chocolate chips, sprinkles, mini marshmallows, fruit sauces, whipped cream)
How To Make The Cheesecakes:
Make the Base:
For our "No-Bake Mini Cheesecake Cups," start with crushing the biscuits by placing them in a sturdy Zip bag and allowing them to have fun bashing the biscuits with a rolling pin (under supervision, of course!). Add the melted butter to the mix and stir in a bowl. Next, for the Base Layer, press the buttered crumbs into the bottom of the ramekins. Once the bases are pressed, pop them into the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly.
Craft the Creamy Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese with a little icing sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. Beat or whisk this mixture until it's wonderfully smooth and lump-free – a simple and satisfying step.
Fill & Chill:
Retrieve your chilled bases. Then, spoon or pipe the creamy filling mixture onto the prepared biscuit bases. Make sure to fill them almost to the top. Once filled, return these mini cheesecakes to the fridge for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably until the filling is fully set and firm. This crucial chilling time ensures they hold their shape perfectly before the final flourish.
Decorate & Enjoy:
Now for the true highlight: the Topping Extravaganza! Once your cheesecake cups are beautifully set, their creativity can truly shine. Let them go wild with their favourite colourful toppings – fresh berries, chocolate chips, sprinkles, biscuits, sweet sauces, whipped cream.The anticipation makes them taste even better when it's time to indulge.
How To Make It Extra Fun:
For our "Decorate Your Own Mini Cheesecakes" activity, the key is to Set the Stage by arranging the plain mini cheesecakes alongside an array of colourful toppings, creating an inviting little decorating station. Then, it's time to Unleash Creativity; simply let each child pick a mini cheesecake and encourage them to go wild – there are no rules in this sweet art project. Then finally for the moment everyone's been waiting for, let them indulge in the Taste Test, where they get to proudly enjoy their very own masterpiece.
Benefits of Baking with Kids:
• Life Skills: They learn about measurements, following instructions, and patience.
• Creativity: Baking is a fantastic outlet for imagination, especially with decorating.
• Bonding Time: Precious moments spent together, away from screens, creating something delicious.
• Sensory Play: Touching different textures, smelling wonderful aromas, and, of course, tasting.
• Confidence Boost: The pride they feel in creating something edible is immense.
So, this summer holiday, don't just survive – thrive! Embrace the mess, enjoy the laughter, and create some delicious memories with your little ones. And for those days when you just need a break, remember Sally's Baked with Love is always here to provide the perfect, ready-made cheesecake treat!
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +44 7812 197002 📧 Email: sallysbakedwithlove@gmail.com 💬 Or send us a message via Messenger!