My Favorite Things: Baking With My Mom

When I think back on my childhood one of my favorite activities was cooking in the kitchen with my mom.
Actually, I could have skipped the cooking and gone straight to baking.

My skills started off small (Rice Krispy Treats) but by my tweens I was pulling off some amazing cakes and innovative cookie recipes.

I believe spending time in the kitchen teaching your child to bake is invaluable. Not only is it a great opportunity to spend some 'quality time' together, it is also a place to learn things like math (what is a teaspoon vs a tablespoon ?), reading (can't screw up those baking directions or you will have a messy disaster on you hands) and self-control (don't eat the entire batter or there will be nothing left to bake...such a sad lesson to learn.)

One of my favorite things to make were muffins. Muffins are both a breakfast staple and a great afternoon snack. They take practically not time to make and homemade muffins are always more healthy than those big heavy ones you buy at the store.

Please enjoy one of my favorite muffin recipes. It is easy and fun to make with your kids. It's up to you whether you want to add nuts... but I prefer straight bananas and chocolate chips. Yum Yum!

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, combine the egg, oil, yogurt and vanilla. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in bananas and chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees F for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Eat Time: ASAP!