My Little Baker...

Baking is one of my favorite things to do, especially when the weather starts to get cooler.  There's nothing like the sweet smell of something yummy baking.  It makes me feel all warm and happy inside. 

My youngest niece Haley also loves to bake.  Although sometimes our ideas of "baking"  aren't on the same page.  We love baking from scratch, she on the other hand thinks placing a Pillsbury break and bake cookie on a tray is "baking".  So this weekend we compromised, we baked from a cake mix.  We always keep a few mixes and frosting on hand to use in a pinch.

My little baker had decided she was going to bake cupcakes.  There were all kinds of noises coming from the kitchen. I could hear doors and drawers being opened and closed, and the sound of metal as it crashed on the kitchen floor!  I shook my head as I rose from my chair.  I bravely walked to the kitchen, as I approached Haley looked at me and announced "we don't have any cupcake mix, I'll have to make brownies instead!"  I explained that you use a cake mix to bake cupcakes, we didn't need a special mix.  The look of happiness returned!  On the kitchen table she had already gathered all of the things we would need.  There were eggs, oil, a mixing bowl and whisk, and all sorts of measuring cups just waiting to be used.  

Haley informed me she didn't really need me to help, I could sit and watch...with great trepidation I took a seat at the kitchen table.  With the skills of a master baker she carefully measured.  She mixed and mixed until the batter looked just right.  I poured the batter into a large measuring cup to make putting the batter into the cupcake pan easier.  Chef Haley slowly poured the batter into each cup, licking her fingers every chance she could.  With her approval I placed them in the oven. She set the timer and waited as patiently as an eight year old could. Their sweet aroma began to fill the kitchen. It would only be a matter of time before they would be ready.

We placed the cupcakes on the rack, while they cooled Chef Haley gathered some frosting and sprinkles to decorate with.  Each cupcake was carefully frosted and covered in Halloween sprinkles.  Cleanup came next!  After licking bowls and whisks Haley even did her own dishes...She was so proud of all her work, and so was I!!

YUMMY GOODNESS!