You Asked It!

Still Time to Bake to Give!

holiday cookies
Happy Holidays!
Photo: Canva.com

The Home Baking Association encourages bakers of all all ages to share what you bake during the holidays!

A gift of home baked goodies is a thoughtful way to show someone you care at any occasion. It brings a smile and warms their hearts. So here are some reasons to bake to give:

  • Baked goods are cost effective. You can make a large batch of cookies and they can be divided into several gifts.
  • Customize the goodies to suit the recipient’s taste and preferences. Use their favorite colors, flavors and toppings!
  • Does there need to be a holiday? Not at all, just give to spread joy and bring people together.
  • The holidays are stressful enough, so it might not be the time to try new recipes. Stick to what you know for less stress and more success!
  • Add personal touches to the box or wrapping to add some sparkle!

Keep in mind these extra tips when baking to give:

  • Always practice safe food handling steps. Wash your hands before, during and after baking. Clean as you go to make final clean-up easier.
  • Consider dietary restrictions such as food allergens.
  • Don’t taste before you bake! Raw eggs and raw flour have been linked to foodborne illness outbreaks. Remember to wash your hands after handling raw dough and batter.
  • Consider transportation. Decortive tin boxes are sturdy to prevent damage. Maybe give the gift a baking pan with the baked good. Serving trays are great food cookies and can be wrapped in plastic wrap.

Learn more from the Home Baking Association.

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.