Creating Sweet Memories
The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and connect with family through engaging activities, such as baking. Whether you're preparing sweet treats for a holiday gathering or leaving out cookies for Santa, these moments spent side by side in the kitchen create bonds that extend far beyond the season.
Baking together doesn't require culinary experience or complicated recipes. Shared experiences are wonderful things to look back on, especially during tough times, like when you're going through treatment or supporting someone who is.
Benefits of baking as a family:
- Quality time without distractions
- Helps with building confidence
- Creates lasting memories
- Allows you to pass down stories and recipes
- Shows people how to find joy in simple activities
Consider starting with approachable recipes that allow everyone to participate, regardless of age or skill level. Peanut butter cookies are an excellent choice for family baking sessions.
When baking with your family, remember that the goal isn't to produce perfect cookies; it's to have fun together. It's about creating space for conversation, laughter, and connection.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- ½ teaspoon of sea salt
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup of packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar, plus ½ cup for rolling
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar, and the ¼ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla, and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Scoop slightly heaping tablespoons of the dough, then use your hands to roll each into a ball. Place ½ cup granulated sugar in a small bowl, and roll each cookie dough ball in it to coat.
- Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 2 inches between each ball. Press down on the tops with a fork to form a crosshatch pattern.
- Bake one sheet at a time for 10-12 minutes.
Whether you're in treatment, recovering, or supporting a loved one, these moments of connection and normalcy can bring comfort during challenging times. If you have questions about nutrition during treatment or need support, contact Pennsylvania Cancer Specialists to speak with our care team.