Cold Weather Fun for the Family

Colder weather and wicked winds are in full swing, providing a big challenge when entertaining kids. Going out at home, or while away, may not always be the safest or best option, so why not stay in and bake — without making a mess or cookies by the dozen.

Try your hand at individual mug cakes for each of the kids — you and your partner included. Get a microwavable mug for everyone, various cake mixes, a small mixing bowl, a whisk and get started.

For Classic Hot Chocolate Fans

Grab a small bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon angel food cake mix and 1 tablespoon devil’s food cake mix. Then add a half-tablespoon of instant pudding powder, cheesecake flavor, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Finally, add a half-tablespoon of mini marshmallows, 1 tablespoon chocolate chips and 3 tablespoons water. Once all of your ingredients are mixed thoroughly in your small bowl, pour into your mug and put in the microwave for 60–120 seconds, or until the top is dry.

Hot chocolate mug cake. Photo: Kati Finell | Dreamstime.com

All-American Apple Spice

For something a bit more homemade, try an apple spice mug cake. In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, one-fourth teaspoon baking powder and 1 teaspoon sugar. Whisk in 1.5 tablespoons of milk, a dash of ground cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of applesauce. Once everything is whisked together, add a few small cubes of chopped apple and bake in the microwave for 60–75 seconds.

For Pumpkin Spice Lovers

Begin with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and one egg. Then add half a cup of pumpkin cake mix and, optional for flavor, a half teaspoon of instant espresso powder. You can opt for decaf or replace with pumpkin pie spice to add the flavor without the caffeine. Once these ingredients are blended together, pour the batter into a mug and microwave for 60–90 seconds. Once slightly crackled on the top, add a dollop of whipped cream and caramel sauce to taste.

Host a friendly competition and bake a few flavors for everyone to taste. Whether traveling or on a staycation, enjoy a cozy night in with the kids and kick back with a mug cake and a clean kitchen.