50+ Creative Thanksgiving Preschool Recipes for Young Kids

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. As we gather to celebrate, it’s essential to include our little ones in the festivities, making them feel special and involved.

Cooking and baking together not only fosters creativity and learning but also creates lasting memories that can be cherished for years to come.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 50 Thanksgiving preschool recipes that are easy, fun, and perfect for little hands.

From sweet treats to savory dishes, these recipes are designed to engage preschoolers in the kitchen, help them develop essential cooking skills, and introduce them to the flavors of the season.

So, grab your aprons and let’s dive into these delightful Thanksgiving recipes that will surely bring joy to your holiday celebrations!

50+ Creative Thanksgiving Preschool Recipes for Young Kids

Involving preschoolers in Thanksgiving cooking is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday spirit while teaching them valuable skills in the kitchen.

With these 50+ Thanksgiving preschool recipes, you can create an engaging and fun experience that fosters creativity, learning, and family bonding.

Whether you’re baking sweet treats, preparing savory dishes, or crafting festive snacks, the joy of cooking together will create beautiful memories that last a lifetime.

This Thanksgiving, let your little ones take the lead in the kitchen and enjoy the delightful flavors of the season as a family.

Turkey Fruit Cups

These delightful Turkey Fruit Cups are a fun and nutritious way to celebrate Thanksgiving with preschoolers. Using colorful fruits, kids can create their own turkey designs, which helps develop their fine motor skills while introducing them to healthy eating habits. Plus, it’s a great way to discuss the significance of Thanksgiving in a fun and engaging manner!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of diced apples
• 1 cup of grapes (red or green)
• 1 cup of mandarin oranges (canned or fresh)
• 1 banana (sliced)
• 1 cup of yogurt (vanilla or plain)
• Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
• Pretzel sticks (for the turkey legs)
• Cupcake liners or small cups

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the fruits into small, manageable pieces. Preschoolers can help with the washing and even some light chopping (with supervision).
2. Assemble the Cups: In each cupcake liner or small cup, layer a spoonful of yogurt at the bottom. Then add a mix of the diced apples, grapes, mandarin oranges, and banana slices to create a colorful fruit layer.
3. Create the Turkey: Use chocolate chips for the turkey’s eyes, and insert pretzel sticks to represent the turkey’s legs.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Encourage the kids to admire their turkey creations before digging in!

These Turkey Fruit Cups not only serve as a delicious snack but also allow children to express their creativity. As they assemble their fruit cups, you can talk about the different colors and shapes of the fruits and why it’s important to eat a variety of foods. This interactive experience makes the celebration of Thanksgiving both educational and enjoyable, reinforcing the importance of sharing healthy food with family and friends.

Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups

Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups are a sweet and creamy treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your preschoolers’ plates. This recipe is incredibly simple and provides an opportunity for kids to explore textures and colors while discussing pumpkins and the fall season. Plus, they’ll love the playful presentation of their own mini pumpkin patches!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup of crushed graham crackers
• 1 cup of pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Candy corn (for decoration)
• Small plastic pumpkins or leaf sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Pumpkin Pudding: In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice with the vanilla pudding until well blended.
2. Layer the Cups: In each clear cup, layer a spoonful of the pumpkin pudding, followed by a layer of crushed graham crackers, and repeat until the cup is full.
3. Top It Off: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top and decorate with candy corn. For extra flair, add small plastic pumpkins or leaf sprinkles on top.
4. Serve and Celebrate: Let the children enjoy their mini pumpkin patches!

Creating Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups provides an engaging way to introduce preschoolers to the flavors of Thanksgiving while exploring the concept of layers and textures. As they layer their cups, children can learn about the seasonal significance of pumpkins and how they are harvested. This hands-on activity not only enhances their understanding of food but also fosters a sense of accomplishment as they create their own festive dessert.

Thanksgiving Snack Mix

Thanksgiving Snack Mix is a quick and easy recipe that allows preschoolers to create their own personalized trail mix. This recipe encourages creativity and sensory exploration as kids choose their favorite ingredients. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss the importance of sharing and the spirit of Thanksgiving while they mix their treats together!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
• 1 cup of pretzels (mini or regular)
• 1 cup of dried cranberries
• 1 cup of pumpkin seeds
• 1 cup of chocolate candies (like M&M’s or fall-themed chocolates)
• 1 cup of mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and place them in separate bowls or containers. Encourage the children to explore the textures and colors of each ingredient.
2. Mix Together: In a large bowl, allow the children to take turns adding the ingredients to create their own snack mix. They can combine as many or as few ingredients as they like.
3. Taste Test: Once mixed, let each child sample their creation and encourage them to share what they’ve included in their mix.
4. Pack for Later: If desired, you can provide small bags or containers for the kids to take their snack mix home.

The Thanksgiving Snack Mix is not just a tasty treat but a fun, interactive activity that promotes teamwork and sharing. As preschoolers combine their favorite snacks, they can discuss the different textures and flavors they enjoy. This recipe highlights the essence of Thanksgiving—gratitude, sharing, and togetherness—making it a delightful addition to any preschool Thanksgiving celebration.

Thanksgiving Veggie Turkeys

Thanksgiving Veggie Turkeys are a fun and healthy way to get preschoolers excited about vegetables. By using various colorful veggies, kids can create their own turkey designs, making this a perfect activity to promote healthy eating habits while engaging their creativity. These edible turkeys can also serve as a great conversation starter about the importance of nutritious foods during Thanksgiving.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 large carrot (cut into sticks)
• 1 cucumber (sliced into rounds)
• 1 bell pepper (cut into strips)
• 1 cherry tomato (for the turkey’s head)
• 1 small bowl of hummus or ranch dressing (for dipping)
• Toothpicks (optional, for stability)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Help the children wash and cut the vegetables into manageable pieces. The carrot should be cut into sticks, the cucumber into rounds, and the bell pepper into strips.
2. Assemble the Turkey:
   • Place a few cucumber rounds at the bottom of a plate to serve as the turkey’s body.
   • Use the carrot sticks to create the tail feathers by standing them upright in the hummus or ranch dressing.
   • For the head, place a cherry tomato on top of the cucumber rounds.
   • Use strips of bell pepper for the turkey’s wings and add any additional veggies as decoration.
3. Enjoy with Dip: Serve the veggie turkey with a small bowl of hummus or ranch dressing for dipping.

These Thanksgiving Veggie Turkeys provide a delightful way for preschoolers to explore their creativity while learning about healthy eating. As they construct their veggie turkeys, you can discuss the importance of eating colorful vegetables and the different nutrients they provide. This activity not only makes vegetables more appealing but also fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment as kids showcase their edible art. Sharing their creations at the Thanksgiving table will surely make for a fun and memorable experience!

Cranberry Sauce Jello Cups

Cranberry Sauce Jello Cups are a festive and refreshing treat that preschoolers will love to make and eat! This simple recipe combines the tartness of cranberry with the sweetness of jello, creating a fun, wobbly dessert. Kids can learn about the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving while enjoying a colorful and tasty treat that they can proudly say they helped create.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 package of cranberry-flavored jello
• 1 cup of boiling water
• 1 cup of cold water
• 1 cup of whole cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Clear plastic cups

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jello: In a bowl, dissolve the cranberry-flavored jello in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
2. Add Cold Water: Mix in 1 cup of cold water and let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Layer the Cups:
   • In each clear plastic cup, add a spoonful of whole cranberry sauce at the bottom.
   • Pour the jello mixture over the cranberry sauce and refrigerate for about 2-4 hours, or until set.
4. Serve with Toppings: Once the jello has set, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

These Cranberry Sauce Jello Cups are not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful way to introduce preschoolers to the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving. As they help layer the cups, you can discuss the significance of cranberry sauce in Thanksgiving meals and how jello can be both fun and festive. This recipe encourages kids to be involved in the kitchen while reinforcing the joy of sharing sweet treats with family and friends during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwiches

Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwiches are a fun and easy way for preschoolers to enjoy the classic flavors of Thanksgiving. These sandwiches can be customized with a variety of ingredients, allowing kids to experiment with different tastes and textures. Not only do they provide a delicious meal, but they also offer a chance to discuss the importance of sharing and gratitude while getting creative in the kitchen.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of whole wheat or white bread
• 4 slices of deli turkey
• 1 slice of cheese (cheddar or American)
• Lettuce leaves
• Slices of tomato
• Optional: cranberry sauce or mayonnaise
• Cookie cutter (shaped like a turkey or leaf, if available)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Lay out all the sandwich ingredients on a clean surface. Let the kids help wash the lettuce and tomato.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce or mayonnaise on each slice of bread if desired.
   • Layer turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on two slices of bread.
   • Top with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
3. Cut into Shapes: Use a cookie cutter to cut the sandwiches into fun shapes (like turkeys or leaves). This will make them more appealing and exciting for the children.
4. Serve and Share: Place the sandwiches on a platter and invite everyone to enjoy them together!

Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwiches offer preschoolers a hands-on cooking experience while introducing them to the flavors of the holiday. As they create their sandwiches, encourage conversations about gratitude and sharing with family and friends during Thanksgiving. This activity not only builds excitement around the holiday but also helps children develop valuable cooking skills and an appreciation for nutritious meals. Sharing their delicious creations will make the Thanksgiving celebration even more special!

Pumpkin Spice Play Dough

Pumpkin Spice Play Dough is a creative, sensory activity that not only engages preschoolers but also introduces them to the delightful scents and textures of fall. This easy-to-make play dough allows kids to explore their creativity through imaginative play while enjoying the warm, comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. It’s a fun way to celebrate the Thanksgiving season while also developing fine motor skills.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of warm water
• 2 cups of salt
• 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar
• 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
• Food coloring (optional, for added fun)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and pumpkin spice. Mix well to combine.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the warm water and vegetable oil. If you’re using food coloring, add a few drops to the water mixture for a pop of color.
3. Cook the Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients in a large saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the dough begins to form and pull away from the sides of the pan (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Knead and Cool: Once it forms a ball, remove it from the pan and let it cool slightly. Then knead the dough on a clean surface until smooth.
5. Store: Keep the play dough in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Making Pumpkin Spice Play Dough offers preschoolers a hands-on, sensory-rich experience that fosters creativity and imaginative play. As they mold and shape the dough, you can talk about the scents and spices commonly associated with Thanksgiving. This activity not only entertains children but also provides opportunities to practice fine motor skills and learn about seasonal traditions. It can even spark conversations about the importance of sharing and celebrating the harvest season together!

Apple Pie Bites

Apple Pie Bites are a delightful, bite-sized treat that allows preschoolers to experience the classic flavors of apple pie without the need for complicated baking. These easy-to-make treats encourage kids to practice measuring and mixing ingredients while enjoying the sweet smell of cinnamon and baked apples. They can also learn about the tradition of baking during Thanksgiving as they create their own delicious snacks!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of crescent roll dough
• 2 cups of diced apples (peeled)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Optional: Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a bowl, mix the diced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
4. Fill the Dough: Place a spoonful of the apple mixture on the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough from the wide end to the point, enclosing the apples.
5. Bake: Place the rolled apple pie bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Drizzle (Optional): Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Apple Pie Bites provide preschoolers with a simple yet rewarding baking experience that celebrates the flavors of Thanksgiving. As they roll and fill the dough, kids can learn about the importance of apples in fall and Thanksgiving traditions. This recipe encourages teamwork and sharing as children work together to create a delicious treat, reinforcing the holiday spirit of gratitude and togetherness. Enjoying these bites together will surely make for a joyful Thanksgiving celebration!

Sweet Potato Pancakes

Sweet Potato Pancakes are a nutritious and delicious breakfast option that introduces preschoolers to the flavors of Thanksgiving. Packed with vitamins and minerals, these pancakes are easy to make and can be enjoyed at any meal. This recipe not only encourages children to get involved in the cooking process but also offers an opportunity to learn about the health benefits of sweet potatoes and the importance of wholesome foods.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
• 1 cup of pancake mix (or homemade pancake batter)
• 1/2 cup of milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Cook the sweet potato until tender (boil, bake, or steam). Allow it to cool slightly before mashing.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, pancake mix, milk, egg, and cinnamon. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Cook the Pancakes: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour small amounts of batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Serve: Stack the pancakes on a plate and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Sweet Potato Pancakes provide a delicious and healthy way to celebrate the flavors of Thanksgiving while allowing preschoolers to participate in the kitchen. As they mix and cook, children can learn about the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes and the importance of wholesome ingredients. This recipe fosters a sense of accomplishment as kids create their own pancakes, making breakfast a fun and interactive experience. Sharing these delightful pancakes during Thanksgiving breakfast will surely add a warm and festive touch to the holiday celebrations!

Turkey Fruit Kabobs

Turkey Fruit Kabobs are a delightful and healthy treat that encourages preschoolers to explore different fruits while creating their own festive turkey designs. This hands-on recipe allows children to practice their fine motor skills and learn about the importance of healthy eating during the Thanksgiving season. Plus, they make for a colorful and appetizing addition to any Thanksgiving table!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Assorted fruits (e.g., strawberries, grapes, banana slices, pineapple chunks, and apple slices)
• Wooden skewers or toothpicks
• Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
• Whipped cream or yogurt (optional, for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruits: Wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Set them out in separate bowls for easy access.
2. Assemble the Kabobs:
   • Start with a large piece of fruit (like a pineapple chunk) at the bottom of the skewer for the turkey’s body.
   • Add a banana slice or apple slice for the turkey’s head.
   • Use grapes and strawberries to create the tail feathers, alternating colors for a vibrant look.
3. Add the Eyes: Dot mini chocolate chips on the turkey’s head to create eyes.
4. Serve: Arrange the fruit kabobs on a platter. If desired, serve with whipped cream or yogurt for dipping.

Turkey Fruit Kabobs are a fun and interactive way to introduce preschoolers to healthy snacking while embracing the Thanksgiving spirit. As they assemble their kabobs, children can learn about the different fruits and their health benefits, promoting the importance of nutrition in a festive way. This recipe not only encourages creativity but also fosters a sense of accomplishment as kids enjoy their tasty creations. Sharing these colorful kabobs with family and friends during Thanksgiving will make for a joyful and memorable celebration!

Corn on the Cob with Butter

Corn on the Cob with Butter is a simple and classic dish that can be easily prepared with preschoolers. It allows kids to experience the joy of cooking while learning about this traditional Thanksgiving side dish. The process of shucking corn and spreading butter also helps develop fine motor skills and introduces children to the farm-to-table concept.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn on the cob (1 cob per child)
• Butter (softened or melted)
• Salt (optional)
• Paper towels (for cleanup)

Instructions:

1. Shuck the Corn: Help preschoolers remove the husks and silk from the corn on the cob, discussing where corn comes from and its importance in agriculture.
2. Cook the Corn: Boil a pot of water and carefully place the shucked corn into the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Remove the corn with tongs and let it cool slightly.
3. Butter the Corn:
   • Provide each child with a piece of corn on the cob.
   • Allow them to spread softened butter over the corn using a butter knife or their hands (with supervision).
   • Sprinkle a little salt if desired.
4. Enjoy: Serve the corn on the cob with paper towels for easy cleanup.

Corn on the Cob with Butter is not only a delicious addition to any Thanksgiving meal, but it also offers preschoolers a hands-on cooking experience that teaches them about traditional foods and cooking techniques. As they shuck and butter the corn, children can learn about the significance of corn in Thanksgiving celebrations and the farm-fresh aspect of their food. This activity encourages a sense of pride as they share their creations with family during the holiday, reinforcing the values of gratitude and togetherness.

Pumpkin Pie in a Cup

Pumpkin Pie in a Cup is a fun and mess-free way to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie without the need for baking. This no-bake recipe allows preschoolers to combine ingredients to create their own individual servings, making it a perfect addition to Thanksgiving festivities. Kids will love layering the ingredients, and it’s a great way to discuss the traditional flavors associated with the holiday.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup of vanilla yogurt (or whipped cream)
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
• 1 cup of crushed graham crackers
• Optional: whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

1. Mix the Pumpkin Filling: In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well until smooth.
2. Prepare the Cups: Use clear plastic cups or small bowls for serving.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Start with a layer of crushed graham crackers at the bottom of each cup (this represents the pie crust).
   • Add a layer of the pumpkin mixture on top of the graham crackers.
   • Follow with a layer of yogurt or whipped cream.
   • Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: If desired, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Pumpkin Pie in a Cup offers preschoolers a delightful and interactive way to celebrate Thanksgiving while enjoying the classic flavors of pumpkin pie. As they layer the ingredients, kids can learn about the traditional significance of pumpkin pie during the holiday and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. This no-bake recipe promotes creativity and allows for personal expression as children create their unique desserts. Sharing these delicious cups at Thanksgiving will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces, making it a cherished part of the celebration!

Mini Pumpkin Muffins

Mini Pumpkin Muffins are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that allows preschoolers to engage in the baking process while enjoying the flavors of fall. This recipe is not only simple but also introduces children to the joys of cooking and baking, along with the delicious scents of pumpkin and spices filling the kitchen. Making these muffins together provides a great opportunity to talk about the importance of sharing homemade goodies during the Thanksgiving season.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Combine Both Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fill Muffin Tins: Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake: Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool before serving.

Mini Pumpkin Muffins are a wonderful way for preschoolers to learn about baking and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving. As they mix and pour the batter, kids can discover the importance of teamwork in the kitchen and the joy of sharing their delicious creations with family and friends. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack during the holiday, making them a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. Plus, the warm aroma of baking muffins will surely fill the home with festive cheer!

Thanksgiving Trail Mix

Thanksgiving Trail Mix is a fun and customizable snack that allows preschoolers to explore different flavors and textures while creating their own mix. This recipe encourages creativity and healthy snacking, making it a great addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. As kids choose their ingredients, they can also learn about the various foods associated with the holiday, fostering an appreciation for seasonal snacks.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of popcorn (popped)
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup of mini pretzels
• 1/2 cup of nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts)
• 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or candy corn
• Optional: mini marshmallows or sunflower seeds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients in separate bowls for easy access.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, let preschoolers add the ingredients they want in their trail mix. Encourage them to mix and match different flavors and textures.
3. Toss to Combine: Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, let the kids gently toss the mixture until everything is well combined.
4. Serve: Portion the trail mix into small bags or cups for each child to enjoy.

Thanksgiving Trail Mix offers a fun and interactive way for preschoolers to create their own snacks while celebrating the flavors of the season. As they choose their ingredients and mix them together, children can discuss the various foods associated with Thanksgiving and the importance of sharing. This recipe encourages healthy eating habits while allowing for creativity, making it a perfect addition to family gatherings or a fun treat for kids. Enjoying their personalized trail mix will make kids feel involved and excited about the holiday festivities!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delicious and fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes, making them perfect for preschoolers to help prepare. This recipe not only allows kids to practice their measuring and mixing skills but also introduces them to the joy of cooking savory dishes. These cheesy bites are sure to be a hit at any Thanksgiving table and provide an opportunity for children to learn about the importance of comfort foods during the holiday season.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made)
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: herbs (like parsley or chives) for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. If desired, add herbs for extra flavor. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the Balls: Using clean hands, scoop a small amount of the mixture and roll it into balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
5. Bake: Place the coated potato balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful way to introduce preschoolers to the kitchen while enjoying a classic Thanksgiving side dish. As they mix, shape, and bake, kids can learn about the versatility of mashed potatoes and the comfort food traditions associated with the holiday. These tasty bites are not only fun to make but also encourage children to share their culinary creations with family during Thanksgiving, reinforcing the values of gratitude and togetherness. Enjoying these cheesy treats will surely bring smiles and warmth to any holiday gathering!

Note: More recipes are coming soon!