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How Playful Baking Builds Lasting Memories (and Even Better Connection)

There’s something special about baking with a child.

Maybe it’s the way their eyes light up when they swirl frosting for the first time. Or the way they proudly hold up their masterpiece—even if it’s lopsided or wildly over-decorated. Maybe it’s the giggle when the sprinkles fly or the quiet moment when they lean in close just to be near you.

Whatever the magic is, one thing’s certain: when you bake together, you’re doing more than making a treat. You’re making a memory.

Baking Isn't About Perfection—It's About Presence

In a world filled with rushing and routines, playful baking gives us permission to slow down. To look our children in the eye. To let go of control and say, “Yes, let’s do this together.”

The cookies don’t need to look like the box. The cupcakes don’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. That’s not the point. The point is that your child gets to experience something real—with you.

Whether they’re piping rainbow frosting onto a unicorn cookie, sticking googly eyes onto a silly cupcake, or smooshing marshmallow fluff between chocolate cookies, they’re learning something powerful: I am loved, and I belong here.

Confidence, Creativity, and Connection—All in One Afternoon

Playful baking does more than create a fun afternoon. It quietly builds:

  • Confidence, as your child takes the lead on decorating and feels proud of what they’ve made

  • Creativity, through color choices, design decisions, and experimentation

  • Connection, because you’re working side by side, focused on the same joyful task

For younger children, these moments offer structure and reassurance. For older kids, they become chances to open up. For all ages, it becomes a safe space to simply be with you.

The Best Traditions Start Small

You don’t need an elaborate plan to create a core memory. All it takes is a bit of time, a little flour, and the willingness to be present.

That’s what the Duff x Baketivity kits are all about—easy, creative experiences that bring your family together. Whether you’re decorating unicorn cookies, building a silly monster cupcake, or recreating s’mores from your childhood, you’re giving your child more than just a baking activity.

You’re giving them a feeling.
A tradition.
A story they’ll tell someday.

And the best part? You’ll remember it, too.

Want to create your own playful baking moment?
Explore our Duff kits here and start your next memory today.

Frequently asked questions

What do you put in a kids pretzel baking kit?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

Why should I use a pretzel baking kit?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

Are your pretzel baking kits kosher?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

Do your pretzel baking kits include nuts?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

What equipment do I need for a pretzel baking kit?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

Can I send a pretzel baking kit as a gift?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

What age should a child start cooking?

No recipe card or pre-measured ingredients that are placed inside any of our baking kit call for or include nuts of any kind. But some of these ingredients have been produced in a facility that also processes nuts, soy, sesame seeds, and gluten. So it's very possible that trace amounts of these potential allergens may be found in some of our baking kit ingredients.

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