Gulf Coast Family

Have you ever noticed how your childrens’ faces light up when you pull them up to the counter and let them stir something? The kitchen is a center of activity in many homes, and as a result, children want to be involved. Letting children help to prepare meals is a wonderful opportunity to teach them about responsibility, creativity, science and the importance of following instructions.

Pumpkin Bread

Even kids who don’t care for pumpkin pie might enjoy this sweet, moist bread. It’s delicious with cream cheese!

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup cooked pumpkin
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Grease a large (9x5x3) loaf pan or 8 mini-loaf pans.
2. Stir first 7 ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add remaining ingredients and beat on medium-low speed until well-blended.
4. Pour into prepared pan(s). Bake for 30 minutes (mini-loaves) or 1 hour and 20 minutes (large loaf)

Have a great recipe your kids love to make and eat? Send it to us at articles@gulfcoastfamily.org, and we may feature your young cooks in a future issue!