HOW TO GET INTO BAKING

If you’re a hobby hopper like me, you may have considered baking once or twice. Cakes, cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, and even pie have been up for question. Sometimes it’s hard to stick with it, especially if it doesn’t go your way on the first try. 

I started my baking journey in late August, which may have been the worst time to start if I’m being honest. It was 95+ degrees outside and the last thing I wanted to do was be around a warm kitchen or hot oven. I did want to, however, try something new. For mental health reasons I needed an activity I could stay consistent with, and I decided to make that baking. 

That started what I call Munchie Monday. My Munchie Monday consists of me baking something every Monday. Even if it is a package of premade cookie dough, I force myself to get in the kitchen and do something with my hands. Besides, who doesn’t like to have treats for the rest of the week?

With all of this being said, there were definitely some bumps in the road during my baking journey. Here are a list of tips and tricks I use to stay consistent and not give up:

1. Make a plan

I could argue that one of the hardest parts of baking is knowing what to make. There are always different options, but sometimes it’s tough deciding what you want to do or what treat would be the least time-consuming to make. That’s why having a plan a few days beforehand is super helpful. You are able to know exactly what you’re making and how much effort it will take. 

2. Buy ingredients the day before

This tip may sound simple,  but it took me a while before I figured out that it was the best thing to do. I recommend buying ingredients the day before for a few reasons. First, it serves as a mental reminder that you will be baking the next day. Second, it forces you to actually get into the kitchen and bake. When ingredients sit in your pantry for a week it is easy to forget what’s in there or why you got them at all. 

3. Look around for inspiration

You’re not alone on your baking journey. If trying to find a recipe ever feels daunting, go to social media for some assistance. You can usually find some easy, quick, and cute recipes that are sure to fit with what you want. I have definitely fallen into the trap of scrolling endlessly to find something fun to make for a party or two. 

4. Involve other people

This step is optional, but I think it makes the process fun. I often take requests for Munchie Monday, which also helps with the stress of figuring out what to make. I love making treats and giving them to people. Every time I bake I always make a double batch, one for my roommates and I and one to give away. I really like giving my treats away; it gives me joy knowing I made things that other people enjoy. 

5. Stay calm

Things won’t be perfect, and that’s OK. I’ve had my fair share of burnt cookies and almost-kitchen fires. The thing to remember is that one moment doesn’t mean you’re a bad baker, it just means you’re human. I had a recipe that didn’t work, at all, and ended up making an emergency batch of chocolate chip cookies. Accidents happen, mistakes are made, but the world will move on. 

I believe I have come a long way as a baker. I’ve made cosmic brownies, a cookie cake, s’mores cookies and even a double layer red velvet cake. It took a couple of weeks to find a lot of enjoyment in the activity, but now I’m hooked. My friends know Munchie Monday as the day I give out treats. Baking has brought my friends and I closer and our bellies a little more full.

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