I grew up in a household where baking was a normal occurrence. I remember a family friend mentioning how amazing it was to find a pie on our kitchen table, out of nowhere, for no particular reason. That’s just how my mom was! Want a pie? Here you go!
I didn’t know that wasn’t the norm in other families. I watched and learned all the basic principles of baking from my mom. And she learned from her mom, and I am excited to start passing on to MY daughter.
Recently, I’ve noticed some articles surfacing about “baking therapy.” I didn’t know this WASN’T a thing! Being an adult with ADD, it can take me a while to finally decide and get the cupcakes going, but once I do, I am in my super-focus mode. There’s nothing that can pull me away from that Kitchen Aid once it’s going. And I NEED that in my life, a reason to focus. It balances my brain and gives me more mental clarity and a sense of satisfaction.
So, I’m on a mission to help others find joy in baking. Here are 5 reasons why YOU should bake!
#1 Instant Gratification
Well, almost. But, if you’re craving some baked goodness, why wait til your next run to the store or errand to stop by the local bakery? I’m all for supporting local, and I do 😉 , but if you have the ingredients on hand, just do it! Helloooo pumpkin chocolate chip bars. You know you got an extra can of pumpkin waiting for you in the pantry.
#2 Your Friends Will Love You
You could probably house that entire plate of cookies yourself, but why do that to your belly? You’ll feel sick and that wave of guilt will roll over you… Instead, pack a cute tin (or, let’s be real, wrap them with plastic on a paper plate) and bring to work or your next meetup with friends. Trust me, I know, they will RAVE because who doesn’t love fresh baked goods? Especially those made with love <3
#3 Clear Your Mind
As I mentioned, baking is a great way to hone your attention to specific tasks. The consequences of not paying attention could be dire. You may be 1 teaspoon away from a sunken cake! So, great incentive to follow directions, use that bit of perfectionism you may have, and create a delicious end result. This is a form of meditation – mindfulness. Be completely mindful of your actions, but also enjoy what you are doing. #beonewiththespatula
#4 Full Disclosure
If you’re a label-checker, rest assured that you’ll know what’s in something that YOU make! Don’t like ingredients you can’t pronounce? I understand some people really can’t tolerate or choose not to consume certain ingredients. When you’re baking your own bread or muffins, you’ll know exactly what’s in it. And you can get pretty fancy. Whaddup, turbinado sugar and Madagascar vanilla beans?
#5 Natural Air Freshener
Who needs those fancy cinnamon bun or vanilla cupcake candles? Nothing smells better than fresh baked goodness. I can’t even elaborate on that, I think you all know what I’m talking about!
So there you have it. 5 reasons to bake. What’s holding you back? Is there something stopping YOU from baking? I’m here to listen and help! 🙂