This week I wanted to take it back to the old-school ways and dive into a family recipe book I have had in my drawer since my great grandma passed away. I have been wanting to try out some baking this week and allow myself to just enjoy it and not have to rush through, I wanted to enjoy the process of having a physical recipe with me and refer to it, as opposed to having to keep going back and forth to my phone and unlocking it, and finding the recipe, or going back to my screenshots, etc. If anyone has ever used an online recipe, they can relate to the annoyance of having to go back and forth to your phone is.
Finding the recipe to use
I had dug out the family recipe book that my family created just before my great grandma had passed away. I had ventured through the book and I struggled to find what I wanted to make. There was so many things and I did not have enough time to obviously cook all of them, so I thought to myself to find a recipe my daughter could possibly help me with, as cooking is a life skill, and she loves to be helpful. I looked around the kitchen and I had the ingredients to do banana chocolate chip muffins, which are a staple in most homes, and a good lunch snack food my daughter throughout the week. I ended up finding my auntie Marlene’s recipe for banana chocolate chip muffins. It was not too complicated and Hudsyn could help me with all of the steps.
The process
To start off the process, I gathered all the ingredients, and measuring utensils we needed and got the dish water ready for the dirty dishes. I will admit that I actually have a very odd sensory issue when it comes to flour. I am not able to touch it as I get goosebumps and it triggers my gag reflex – odd I know, explanation is unknown. Luckily this is where Hudsyn (my daughter) comes into save the day, as she does not have a sensory issue. I read the recipe out to her, and help her measure out the ingredients, she puts all the ingredients into the mixing bowl, and we take turns mixing as she complained her tiny arms were getting tired. We get to the process of putting the mixture into the liners and she wants to take that job on all by herself. Please note, this sends my OCD into a frenzy, because I struggle with mess, but I allowed her to give it a go. She did a very good job and took her time to ensure she did not make too much of a mess. Note, my daughter sings in almost every task she does, such as hockey, bathing, getting dressed, etc. She is a real songbird!
Enjoying the final product!
The final product was delicious, and honestly I enjoyed the journey. It was calming, and I reflected on the awesome experience it brought to my daughter and I. I realize during this weeks cooking challenge, that I need to incorporate Hudsyn into my learning journey as well, because she is a small sponge in life right now, and I want her to have a positive relationship with food, and learn to have these skills as she gets older, and more independent.
What a great recipe to choose! There is something about a physical recipe, especially an old family one, that just makes food taste better. I love that you included Hudsyn this week, and I really enjoyed the video of her filling the muffin liners. Such a special memory for both of you!
Hey Kirsten! You and your daughter did a lovely job! I have a passion for baking and haven’t been able to for a long time because I don’t like to do it without enjoying it stress-free. I was just thinking that I should do some February break baking and you just gave me the perfect idea! Keep up the great work!
This is awesome. I swear the recipes from these old books are always the best. It makes me want to dig into the back of my cupboard for these books. I love that you get to enjoy this project with your daughter too – brings back memories from my childhood!
Hi kristen ,This was such a heartwarming read! I love how baking became a bonding experience with your daughter and a way to connect with your family’s traditions. Hudsyn’s enthusiasm and singing made it even more special! I’d love to try this recipe—banana chocolate chip muffins sound delicious! Last time, I used curd as an egg substitute. What other alternatives would you recommend?
Aw its amazing to see you and your daughter enjoyed making them, I been kinda debating on making some chocolate chip cookies but been lazy about it aha.