Smoked Salmon Bagel
Split a bagel open and place each slice in the toaster. Get out a plate and layer 3 to 4 slices smoked salmon so it looks pretty. Add to the plate things your mom might like: a teaspoon of capers, a few lemon slices, thin slices of red onion, alfalfa sprouts, and thin slices of tomatoes. When the bagel is done toasting, use a butter knife to spread a thick layer of softened cream cheese and serve. Let mom create her own masterpiece.
Monkey Bread
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium, microwavable bowl, add 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt for 25 seconds in the microwave. Stir butter with a spatula and microwave for another 25 seconds. Stir 1 cup light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon into the butter and return to the microwave for 25 seconds. Repeat in 25 second intervals until the sugar and butter has fully combined. Be careful, as the bowl will get hot. Use cooking spray or butter to grease a large Bundt or tube pan. From 2 large (16 oz) cans of refrigerated flaky biscuits, cut each biscuit into 4 equal pieces and add them to the pan. Carefully pour the melted butter and sugar mixture over the dough. Place the pan on a cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove and cool in pan for 10 minutes. Using oven mitts, flip the pan over onto a serving platter. Enjoy warm.
Easy Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Spray a microwavable coffee mug with cooking spray. Break one egg into the cup and lightly mix with a fork. Place the mug into the microwave and cook for about 45 seconds, or until fully cooked. While the egg cooks, toast an English muffin. Be careful when removing; it can be tricky. Butter each side of the muffin when it is finished. Place muffin on plate. Add one slice of deli ham on the bottom part of the muffin. Next, check the egg. Careful! It may be hot. Slide the egg on top of the ham and layer with a thin slice of cheese. Place the muffin top on and press down lightly. Serve immediately.
Berry Parfait
Use store-bought granola or make your own. To make the granola: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine 3½ cups old-fashioned oats, ¼ cup brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Melt 1/3 cup (6 tablespoons) butter in microwave. Heat 1/3 cup honey in microwave for 45 seconds. Add the butter and honey to the oats and mix well. Pour into a 15×10 baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes, stirring after the first 10 minutes. Cool completely.
To make the parfaits: Arrange four clear cups or glasses. Spoon 2 tablespoons of vanilla yogurt into each glass and smooth the top. With a new spoon, add 2 tablespoons of granola on top and level the granola. Spoon 2 tablespoons of fruit (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and bananas) over the top and smooth surface. Repeat the process, adding layers a few times to fill the cup. Add a bit of honey to the top and serve.
Tips for Kids in the Kitchen
1. When using a sharp knife to cut, make sure you are paying very close attention and that the item you are cutting won’t slip.
2. Sometimes it is easier to cut a vegetable in half so you can lay it on the flat side to cut it.
3. If the cutting board is moving, try laying a damp kitchen cloth or paper towel underneath it.
4. Ask an adult to help you get your baked items in and out of the oven.
