This book is appropriate for children ages 4 and above.
The chapters of this book are are: Mealtime Magic, Naughty and Nice Nibbles, Sweet Somethings, and Happy Holiday Workshop. It also contains an Introduction, a Tips and Tools section, and Safety Guidelines. The various chapters are filled with different types of cooking and crafting activities: breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes; snacks; sweet treats and desserts; and finally, ideas for making Christmas gifts and decorations. Be prepared, these recipes and projects are not intended to be done in a hurry; they are meant to foster quality time and create memories for you and your loved ones - especially your kids.
The authors know how to keep cooking fun and enjoyable - for kids and adults alike. Turning homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches into "Teacup Soup and Snowman Sandwiches" takes imagination and creativity, and they've done it for you. The same is true for "Rudolph's Red Sauce Pasta" (a.k.a. homemade marinara with fusilli), "Long Life Noodles" (sesame noodles with shredded cucumbers) and the other dishes that comprise the first chapter. Beyond creative, these dishes are delectable! Most of the recipes are relatively easy, and all are from scratch, which means they are healthier and taste better.
Although some of the "nibbles" included in chapter two are more "naughty" than "nice," there are a few healthy recipes - and the not-so-healthy items make delicious, creative gifts or confections for a party. Bagel Rings (bagels with assorted toppings), Blixen's Mix (trail mix), Skater's Dip (veggies with homemade dip), and Snow Angel (toast cutout with egg) are all fun, tasty, good-for-you snacks that kids will enjoy. Sweet creations like Celebration Sticks (chocolate-dipped pretzels with sprinkles), Sugarplum Lollies (chocolate-dipped marshmallows with assorted toppings), New Year's Nuggets (chocolate-caramel popcorn), and Chimney Cakes (assorted mini loaves) are a blast to make and serve at a Christmas or New Year's party or to give as gifts. The Sleigh Rider Cider (apple-raspberry spiced cider) is a wonderful treat for the family to make and drink together on a cold winter afternoon - or as a beverage for a party.
Full of mouth-watering confections, the "Sweet Somethings" chapter contains delicious treats that will entertain as well as satisfy that sweet tooth. Whether prepared for a party, to give as a gift, or simply for your family to enjoy, these creations are fun to both make and eat! All are made from scratch, which makes them taste fresh and even more delightful. Some are a little more involved than others, such as Incredible Edible Ornaments (decorative cupcakes), Frosty and Friends (marshmallow snowman), or Ice Cream Treewitches (ice cream sandwiches), but they are perfect for spending fun, quality time with your children - and even teens.
Whether your goal is to make gifts to give away to others or Christmas decorations for your own home, the final chapter is packed with creative ideas. And most are rather inexpensive and easy to make. These crafts are excellent to complete with your kids and teens - you are all are sure to have a great time, and be pleasantly surprised by the outcome of your hard work. There are activities that are appropriate for kids of all ages - both those younger and older. Tasty Treasures (handmade box of shortbread cookies), Santa's Suds (decorated soap), Winter Wonderland (Christmas centerpiece), Jolly Cookie Jar (cookie mix layered in a jar with the recipe), and Sweet and Crunchy Garland (popcorn, gumdrop, and candy garland) are sure to be family favorites for years to come.
This coloful book is very inviting and includes bright, vivid photographs throughout, which are very helpful in knowing how your finished product - whether an edible item or a craft project - should turn out. So, get to work and have some family fun this Christmas season!
Copyright © 2010 Keeley Drotz, RD – TGBG Nutrition. All rights reserved.
