Cooking with kids is a wonderful way to teach them valuable life skills and help them develop a love for food and healthy eating. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, there are plenty of cookbooks out there designed to make cooking with kids fun and easy. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best cookbooks for kids and highlight what makes each one special.
1. “The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs” by America’s Test Kitchen Kids
If you’re looking for a cookbook that’s both fun and educational, “The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs” by America’s Test Kitchen Kids is a great place to start. Designed for children aged 8-12, this cookbook includes over 100 recipes that are easy to follow and fun to make. Each recipe comes with step-by-step instructions, full-color photos, and cooking tips to help kids learn important kitchen skills. The cookbook also includes a section on cooking techniques, so children can learn the basics of cooking and baking.
What sets this cookbook apart is its focus on teaching kids the science behind cooking. For example, the cookbook explains the chemical reactions that occur when you mix ingredients together, and how heat affects food. It also includes experiments and activities that children can do in the kitchen to learn more about the science of cooking.
2. “Kid Chef Junior: My First Kids Cookbook” by Anjali Shah
For younger children aged 4-7, “Kid Chef Junior: My First Kids Cookbook” by Anjali Shah is a great choice. This cookbook features easy-to-follow recipes with pictures, simple instructions, and tips for parents. The recipes are designed to be simple and straightforward, with no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
What makes this cookbook special is its focus on healthy eating. The recipes are all healthy and nutritious, with an emphasis on whole foods and fresh ingredients. The cookbook also includes tips on how to get children interested in healthy eating, such as involving them in meal planning and grocery shopping.
3. “Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!)” by Deanna F. Cook
“Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!)” by Deanna F. Cook is a cookbook designed for children aged 6-12. It includes easy-to-follow recipes and step-by-step instructions, making it perfect for kids who are just starting to learn their way around the kitchen.
What makes this cookbook special is its focus on creativity. The recipes are all designed to be fun and creative, with a focus on presentation and visual appeal. The cookbook includes recipes for everything from simple snacks to full meals, and each recipe includes tips on how to make it look as good as it tastes.
4. “The Disney Princess Cookbook” by Disney Book Group
For children who love Disney and fairy tales, “The Disney Princess Cookbook” by Disney Book Group is a great choice. This cookbook features recipes inspired by Disney Princesses, such as Rapunzel’s Frying Pan Eggs and Cinderella’s Pumpkin Turnovers. It’s perfect for kids who love to cook and love Disney movies.
What makes this cookbook special is its focus on imagination. The recipes are all designed to be fun and whimsical, with a focus on creativity and imagination. The cookbook also includes fun facts about the Disney Princesses and their stories, making it a great way to spark children’s imaginations.
5. “The Forest Feast for Kids: Colorful Vegetarian Recipes That Are Simple to Make” by Erin Gleeson
“The Forest Feast for Kids: Colorful Vegetarian Recipes That Are Simple to Make” by Erin Gleeson is a cookbook that focuses on vegetarian cooking. It’s perfect for children who are interested in vegetarianism or who are looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. The recipes are all designed to be simple and easy to follow, with a focus on fresh and colorful ingredients.
What makes this cookbook special is its beautiful presentation. The recipes are accompanied by beautiful watercolor illustrations, making the book as visually appealing as it is tasty. The cookbook also includes tips on how to make cooking and mealtime more enjoyable for children, such as involving them in the process and creating a fun and inviting atmosphere.
6. “Baking Class: 50 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Bake!” by Deanna F. Cook
If your child loves baking, “Baking Class: 50 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Bake!” by Deanna F. Cook is a great choice. This cookbook includes easy-to-follow recipes for everything from cookies and cakes to bread and pies. It’s designed for children aged 6-12 and includes step-by-step instructions and full-color photos to help kids learn important baking skills.
What makes this cookbook special is its focus on creativity and experimentation. The recipes are all designed to be customizable, with suggestions for different flavors and variations. The cookbook also includes tips on how to decorate baked goods and make them look as good as they taste.
7. “MasterChef Junior Cookbook: Bold Recipes and Essential Techniques to Inspire Young Cooks” by MasterChef Junior
If your child is a fan of the TV show “MasterChef Junior,” they’ll love “MasterChef Junior Cookbook: Bold Recipes and Essential Techniques to Inspire Young Cooks” by MasterChef Junior. This cookbook features recipes from the show, as well as tips and tricks from the judges and contestants. It’s designed for children aged 8-13 and includes recipes for everything from appetizers to desserts.
What makes this cookbook special is its focus on advanced techniques. The recipes are all designed to be challenging and push children to improve their cooking skills. The cookbook also includes sections on kitchen tools and equipment, as well as tips on how to create a successful meal.
In conclusion, cooking with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience for both parents and children. By using these cookbooks as a guide, you can help your child develop important life skills, teach them the importance of healthy eating, and create lasting memories in the kitchen. So why not grab a cookbook and start cooking with your child today?