Easy and Fun Dessert Recipes for Kids

Baking can be a great way to keep the kids engaged in a directed activity. It also can be a fun way to introduce basic life skills, independence, and fractions. Check out these easy dessert ideas and get your little ones involved in the kitchen!

When I was a kid, there was one thing I would look forward to all summer: making my own chocolate ice cream in a bag. We would toss that bag around until we were exhausted. A treat always tasted better when you made it yourself, especially after a scorching hot day. That's why we've made a list of desserts your little one can help with! Whether it's a hot day outside or a rainy day in, they'll love spending time with you making a delicious treat!

• Funfetti™ Cookies: Using a box cake mix as a base can be a great way to cut out all those extra steps while still getting the experience of baking. For this easy recipe, all you'll need is 1 box of Funfetti™ cake mix, 1/3 cup of oil, 2 eggs, and 3/4 cup of Funfetti™ frosting. In a large bowl, stir cake mix, oil, and eggs until well mixed. Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into 1-inch balls; place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets. Bake 6 to 8 minutes at 350 degrees or until edges are light golden brown. Top with frosting and sprinkles, and enjoy!
• Three-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies: How could it get any easier than this? And you skip the mess that comes with flour! Mix 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 5 tbsp sugar, and 1 egg in a large bowl until combined. Put heaping tablespoons onto an ungreased baking sheet 2 inches apart. You can even press mini marshmallows or chocolate chips onto the top for extra flavor! Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees, let them cool, and dunk in some milk!

• Birthday Cake Batter Cookie Bars: These cookie batter cake bars are so simple and fun! And if there's anything kids love more than cake, it's cake batter. In a large bowl, combine 1 pouch of sugar cookie mix with 1 box of white cake mix, 1 cup of melted butter, 3 eggs, and 1 tsp of vanilla. Stir in 3 tbsp sprinkles, and bake for 32 to 34 minutes at 350 degrees or until golden brown. Top with homemade buttercream frosting and sprinkles!

• Dirt Cup: Have you ever caught your kid eating dirt? I think that's a right of passage for a parent. Fortunately, this will give your kids the experience without the, um, eating actual dirt part.

• Homemade Ice Pops: The beauty of homemade ice pops is that you can customize the flavors to your kids' favorites! With some popsicle molds, you can create a yummy and healthier dessert that everyone will love. Use a food processor or blender to combine fresh fruit and fruit juice. My favorite ingredients are banana and strawberry. If you want a creamier popsicle, add vanilla yogurt or coconut milk! Pop them into the freezer for at least 4-6 hours. Break them out for a cold treat on a hot afternoon!

• Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats: I think we can all agree that when it comes to Rice Krispie treats, homemade is the way to go. And they're no-bake, too! In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter on low heat. Once the butter has melted, keep the heat on low and add 5 cups of mini marshmallows. Once marshmallows begin to soften and melt, add 1/2 cup of peanut butter. Constantly stir the mixture. Once the mixture is combined and melted, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. Add 6 cups of crispy rice cereal to the saucepan and stir until evenly coated with the mixture. Pour mixture into casserole dish. Spray your hand with some nonstick cooking spray and pat down the mixture until it's firmly compacted. Press some M&Ms on the top for an extra sweet treat! One of the best things about the "Rice Krispie Treat" recipe is that it can be modified to any of your favorite cereals, including Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs, or Fruity Pebbles! 
• Puppy Chow: This was a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas at my house, but it's actually great for any time of year! We used to make such a large batch that we'd put it in a trash bag and toss it around to mix it up (Although, I would recommend a tight knot in the bag. Never forget: The Powdered Sugar Christmas Incident of 2011). Start by melting together 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Then, add 3 cups of rice square cereal to a large bowl and pour 1 cup of the chocolate peanut butter over it. Repeat with the rest of both mixtures and mix well. Let it cool slightly, then gradually add 1-2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing as you go. This recipe is so easy and perfect to pack on a picnic!

With all these ideas for fun dessert recipes for kids, you're sure to find one that your kids will love! If you're looking for more easy dessert recipes for kids, check out our recipe for oven-baked s'mores! Do you have a recipe that your kids love to make again and again? Let us know in the comments! And don't forget to share your baking memories with your loved ones on FamilyApp!