Monday, February 10, 2014

Stark Baking: Buy Baking Supplies Online

By Jerri Perry


On days when it is too cold or too snowy to go outdoors, people often get bored and need indoor activities. This need is even more pronounced when there are children involved. One activity that can be fun for everyone is baking. Buy baking supplies online or in a store, and prepare for the next snow day.

The different kinds of things you can bake are endless. Some of them are definitely full of fat and sugar, and should be eaten in moderation, as special treats. But you can also bake savory items that are healthier. And chances are, anything you bake at home will be healthier than most store-bought items. Here are a few ideas.

1. Bread. Everyone loves fresh baked bread, especially on a cold dreary day, combined with some homemade soup. There are all different kinds of bread you can learn to make. Making bread is a useful and fun skill to learn on your own and to share with your kids. The supplies needed are minimal- just the ingredients (be sure to have yeast!), space to knead your dough and to place it while it rises, and a pan in which to bake the bread.

2. Cupcakes. Cupcakes are a fun and versatile item to bake, and they do not take too long. You will need all of the ingredients, a pan for baking the individual cakes, and papers to line the pan. You can be creative with the icing and the other toppings you use to decorate the cupcakes, making them appropriate for any occasion.

3. Muffins. Muffins are similar to cupcakes, and require the same kind of pan and papers. Some muffins, like chocolate and blueberry, are sweet and more appropriate for dessert. Others, like carrot muffins or bran muffins, can be healthier. You can serve muffins for breakfast or with another meal, or they can be a snack. An assortment of muffins also makes a great gift.

4. Make cakes. This take more time than some of the other items, as many cakes include multiple steps such as baking the different layers and then frosting them. There are all kinds of cake pans, in different shapes, for making fancy and uniquely shaped cakes. Cake decorating can be turned into an art form, and if you learn how to do it well, you might be able to make some money by making and decorating caked for special occasions like birthdays.

5. Croissants and cinnamon rolls. Lots of people buy the dough for these tasty items in the grocery store, ready made in those tubes that pop open. This is easy and convenient, but why not learn to make them from scratch when you have the time? A homemade croissant or cinnamon roll with a cup of fresh coffee makes for a great weekend morning in your pajamas.

Making baked goods at home is healthier than buying store bought baked good. It saves money, makes the house smell great, and is just a fun way to spend days indoors. Before you are snowed in, buy baking supplies online or go to the store and get some. That way, you will have a ready-made activity for the next snow day!




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