5 Ways to Turn Baking into a Reset, Not a Task

I don’t know if it’s just me, but I’ve got a growing collection of cooking and baking videos I find on Instagram or TikTok. Every time I save one, I tell myself I should try that recipe this week, and every week I manage to avoid picking up my oven mitts. I think to myself, “I’m too busy,” or “but I’ve had a long day,” or “it’s probably too difficult.” But now I’m starting to think that those thoughts are the exact reason that I should try baking more!

Why Do a Reset?

Everyday life can easily sneak up on you, and downtime is oftentimes the first thing to be sacrificed. When you’re so caught up in your plans and obligations, it’s easy to forget to commit some time to resting.

When you allow yourself to reset, it lets you take on the challenges ahead with a clear head and an extra pep in your step! The best way to avoid burnout is to catch it before it even happens.

1. Set Some Intentions for Your Time in The Kitchen

Before you even pull a mixing bowl out, I like to start by taking a few moments to sit with myself and put myself in the right headspace. Ask yourself, “Why am I choosing to bake?” Baking can be a meditative practice; it's just a matter of how you frame it. Consider who this time is for. Have you been craving something sweet, or wanting to do someone you care for a favor?

I love baking because it forces me to slow down.  Baking a delicious treat can also be a great gift to someone you care about. It's oftentimes healing and gratifying to commit some time to bringing a loved one joy.

2. Bake Something at Your Skill Level

I know the baked Alaska looks really enticing, and if you’re up to the challenge, by all means take it away! However, it might give you more stress than desired to try and bake something technically challenging. It’s kinda like riding a bike with no handlebars while you’re still learning to pedal.

A really easy project to start with would be cupcakes. They're bite-sized, delicious, and super beginner-friendly. And if you’re in for an extra level of fun, try including a fun flavor or decorating them with unique piping tips.

I found that the Foxiecakes cupcake kits make baking and decorating super approachable. Also, with the kit including all the specialty ingredients and tools you need, they'll look and taste like you just picked them up from your local bakery!

3. Put on Some Music

The music you put on sets the tone for your kitchen. Need to get your party on? Put some upbeat tunes on and turn your kitchen into a baking dance floor. Or maybe you're looking for a calmer, quieter experience. I’m a firm believer that it's almost always appropriate to elevate the moment with some smooth jazz. Or you could romanticize the moment by playing a romcom soundtrack or your current favorite album.

Sound is a crucial part of your intended ambience, so have fun setting the perfect mood!

4. Clean As You Go

One of the worst feelings is finishing a big project, ready to be done, only to turn around and realize your second big project is the mess after.

As a gift to yourself, clean as you go, so you don’t deal with that sticky situation! There’s lots of downtime in baking where you're waiting for things to rise, bake, or cool. So, take advantage of those moments to clean anything you don’t need anymore. Already poured the batter into your cupcake tin? Why not clean the bowl while your cupcakes are in the oven? Working methodically can be more relaxing, and it ensures no step is forgotten.

I’d like to mention that the Foxiecakes kit has pre-measured ingredients and standing baking cups. So, it’s fewer dirty dishes and less mess to clean up when you use it…

A bonus is if your kitchen ends up cleaner than it was when you started!

5. Bring a Friend or Family Member into the Mix

Your community can be your greatest support system to lean on when you're overwhelmed. A warm invite to share a moment with you is sure to strengthen your bond with a loved one. Decompress and talk about everything on your mind while making delicious treats together, and you’ll be more prepared for the challenges ahead.

I gently encourage you to take a look at your contacts list and consider sending a message to that one person you’ve been meaning to reach out to. At the end of the day, both of you can leave the hangout with a sweet ending and a little extra gratitude for each other.