20 Exciting Fun Cooking Recipes for Kids
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Getting kids involved in cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. Not only do they learn valuable skills like measurement and following instructions, but they also get to enjoy the fruits of their labor (literally!). But sometimes, it can be tough to come up with recipe ideas that are both kid-friendly and delicious. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 fun cooking recipes for kids that are sure to inspire creativity and excitement in the kitchen.
From colorful pancakes to creative pizza faces, these recipes are designed to be easy enough for little hands to help with, while still being yummy enough for everyone to enjoy. So go ahead, get your kids involved, and have some fun experimenting with new flavors and techniques!
Rainbow Pancake Art
Create a colorful and fun breakfast or brunch with this simple recipe for Rainbow Pancake Art! With just a few ingredients, you can create vibrant pancakes that are almost too beautiful to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Butter or cooking spray for the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a few drops of each food coloring (start with red and work your way up to purple).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip and cook for another minute. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 pancakes
DIY Pizza Faces
Get creative with your pizza night by making adorable pizza faces! With just a few simple ingredients and some fun design elements, you can create customized pizzas that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– Pizza sauce
– Mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, olives)
– Pepperoni slices or small pepperoncini peppers for “eyes”
– Red pepper flakes or cherry tomatoes for “mouths”
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for “hair”
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the pre-baked crust.
3. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
4. Use pepperoni slices or small pepperoncini peppers to create “eyes” for your pizza face.
5. Add a “mouth” using red pepper flakes or cherry tomatoes.
6. If desired, add some “hair” with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Animal Bread
Transform your baked goods into adorable animal shapes with this fun recipe! Perfect for kids’ parties or a whimsical treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 rolls)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham or bacon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the crescent roll dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out animal shapes using cookie cutters or a knife. You can make animals like cats, dogs, bears, or even dinosaurs!
3. Place a spoonful of shredded cheese and chopped ham or bacon in the center of each animal shape.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a ball or shape that resembles your chosen animal. Use a little bit of water to seal any seams.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze (optional). Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
6. Place the stuffed animals on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each one.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fruit Kabob Monsters
Create a colorful and healthy snack with Fruit Kabob Monsters! These bite-sized treats are perfect for kids’ parties, school snacks, or just a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread 3-4 pieces of fruit onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Brush the mixture onto each kabob, making sure to coat all the fruit evenly.
5. Place the kabobs on a plate or tray and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! These Fruit Kabob Monsters are ready to eat as soon as you assemble them.
Mini Taco Boats
Elevate your taco game with these bite-sized, flavorful Mini Taco Boats! Crunchy taco shells filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and fresh cilantro make for a deliciously easy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini taco shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in taco seasoning according to package instructions.
5. Arrange mini taco shells on a baking sheet.
6. Spoon cooked ground beef mixture into each shell, followed by a dollop of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cookie Dough Sushi Rolls
Cookie Dough Sushi Rolls Recipe
A sweet twist on traditional sushi rolls, these Cookie Dough Sushi Rolls combine the classic Japanese dish with the indulgent flavors of cookie dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 package of cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Roll out the cookie dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Place a piece of nori seaweed on top of the cookie dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the nori, leaving a small border at the bottom.
5. Roll up the sushi roll tightly but gently, applying gentle pressure to compress the filling.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: None (assembled)
Spaghetti Squash Nests with Eggs
Start your day with a twist on traditional breakfast dishes by using roasted spaghetti squash as the “nest” for scrambled eggs. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squash
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the squash for 30-40 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
6. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to shred it into strands.
7. Divide the egg mixture among the squash “nests” and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Wands
These bite-sized treats combine the savory flavor of pretzels with the richness of chocolate, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of soft pretzel rods
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips or chunks
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the pretzel rods on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips or chunks in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the length. Tap off any excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl.
5. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe requires chilling rather than cooking.
Banana Split Bites
These adorable Banana Split Bites are the perfect dessert for parties or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create individual servings of this classic treat that are easy to eat and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Whipped cream and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. Place a piece of banana on a serving stick or toothpick.
3. Top with a small scoop of ice cream, followed by a few mixed berries.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
5. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry half on top.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Veggie-Packed Rainbow Wraps
These vibrant wraps are packed with a colorful mix of roasted vegetables, hummus, and fresh herbs, making for a healthy and satisfying snack or meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these wraps are also easy to customize to your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed colored bell peppers (red, yellow, orange)
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large flour tortillas
– Optional fillings: shredded carrots, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Spread hummus on tortillas, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with roasted bell peppers, black beans, cilantro, and optional fillings (if using).
5. Roll up wraps tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Pop-Tarts with Sprinkles
Make your own sweet and colorful Pop-Tarts at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for a fun breakfast or snack, these homemade treats are sure to delight both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sprinkles of your choice (rainbow, heart-shaped, or any other color you like!)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into rectangles or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with sprinkles of your choice.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Donut Kabobs
Mini Donut Kabobs Recipe
Sweet and savory, these bite-sized donut kabobs are perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert option. Treat your friends and family to a tasty twist on traditional donuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini donuts (about 20-25)
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thread a mini donut onto each skewer, leaving about 1/4 inch of space between each donut.
3. Repeat until all donuts are used, ending with a mini donut on each skewer.
4. Place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dust the kabobs lightly with powdered sugar.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the donuts are slightly toasted and the powdered sugar is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips:
– You can customize the kabobs by using different flavored mini donuts, such as maple bacon or strawberry.
– Serve warm with a glass of cold milk for an extra-special treat!
Puffy Paint Toast (Yogurt & Food Coloring)
Create a colorful and fun breakfast or snack with Puffy Paint Toast! This recipe uses yogurt as a base and adds a pop of color with food coloring. Perfect for kids’ parties or a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2-3 drops food coloring ( choose your favorite colors!)
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Optional toppings: granola, honey, fresh fruit
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and food coloring until well combined.
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Spread the colored yogurt mixture evenly onto each slice of toast.
4. Add your favorite toppings, if desired (e.g., granola, honey, fresh fruit).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Build-Your-Own Taco Bar
Get ready to create your own flavorful tacos with this easy-to-follow recipe! With a variety of fillings, toppings, and tortillas, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternatives)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional fillings:
+ Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
+ Diced tomatoes
+ Shredded lettuce
+ Thinly sliced radishes
+ Cooked chicken or steak
– Toppings:
+ Sliced avocado
+ Sour cream
+ Salsa (mild or spicy)
+ Cilantro, chopped
– Cooking supplies:
+ Large skillet or griddle for cooking the ground beef
+ Cutting board for preparing toppings and fillings
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add taco seasoning according to package instructions and cook until the flavors are fully incorporated.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with your desired fillings, toppings, and cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Add a pop of color and flavor to your grilled cheese game with this vibrant recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced orange bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese, followed by a layer of bell peppers.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Edible Cookie Dough Balls
These bite-sized treats are a game-changer for cookie dough lovers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and safe-to-eat cookie dough experience that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for added flavor and fun
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in rolled oats and milk until well combined.
3. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Enjoy your edible cookie dough balls! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed – these bite-sized treats are ready to eat straight from the fridge!
Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries
Transform ordinary yogurt into a deliciously sweet and fruity treat with this simple recipe for Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries. Perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen yogurt (any flavor)
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the frozen yogurt evenly over the prepared baking sheet.
3. Top the yogurt with the mixed berries and drizzle with honey.
4. Sprinkle with vanilla extract.
5. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Break the frozen yogurt bark into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Pancake Cereal in Mini Portions
Start your day with a sweet treat! This recipe makes bite-sized pancake cereal perfect for on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups (about 1 tablespoon each).
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the pancakes are golden brown.
6. Allow the cereal to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Strawberry Banana Sushi Rolls
These bite-sized treats combine the freshness of strawberries and bananas with the crunch of toasted coconut flakes, all wrapped up in a sweet and sticky rice roll. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these strawberry banana sushi rolls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and sesame oil.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of the cooked rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange sliced strawberries and banana along the center of the rice.
5. Drizzle the honey-sesame mixture over the fruit.
6. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes evenly over the filling.
7. Roll up the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
8. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and assembly only)
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish is a game-changer for sneaky vegetable lovers! By blending cooked veggies into the cheesy sauce, you’ll be serving up a nutritious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend cooked vegetables with 1 tablespoon butter until smooth.
4. In a large saucepan, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
5. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in blended veggie mixture, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheesy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get your little ones excited about cooking with these 20 fun recipes that are sure to delight kids of all ages! From creative pancake art to DIY pizza faces, cheesy stuffed animal bread, and even cookie dough sushi rolls, there’s something for every young chef. With a range of sweet and savory options, including mini taco boats, spaghetti squash nests, and build-your-own taco bars, you’ll be inspiring a love of cooking that will last a lifetime.
