Cooking For Teens: Easy Cream Pie

Working with a teen cook varies from one individual to the next. Not only will the experience depend upon the youth, but it will also depend upon the instructor or parent in charge. As you work with your future chef, it's a good idea to keep a sense of humor, as you may have an occasional flop. It's also a good idea to start simple. I don't force the kids into cooking and baking, but allow them to express interest. With my daughters, this is not lacking. With sons, it is not as high on their "to-do" list, or at least not with my sons. I often tempt them with a suggested Thanksgiving dish or dessert, preferably one that is easy, and difficult to mess up. I may ask what they would like to make, or I may assemble the ingredients, and ask for their assistance. Either way, I can get my son involved, allowing the opportunity to test the waters in the culinary realm, and they get the benefit of revelling in praise at the family get-to-gether.

Whether working with a boy or girl, high or low interest, an easy cream pie is an easy way to start. While this recipe does not involve cooking, per se, it is an introduction for the reluctant cook. It is easy, and a prime opportunity to get your teen or tween accustomed to working in the kitchen.

1 Container Frozen Whipped Topping, defrosted according to package directions (Cool Whip or Generic)

1 Pre-Made Graham Cracker Crust

1 Small Package Instant Pudding Mix

Have your teen or tween assist, or have them do it all while you instruct. Place whipped topping in a bowl. Gently sprinkle pudding mix over the topping, approximately 1/3 of the packet. Using a rubber spatula, fold the pudding mix into the topping. When the mix has been incorporated well, add another 1/3 of the pudding mix, and continue the folding. Add the final 1/3, and finish incorporating the mix into the topping. Scoop the mixture into the graham cracker crust, and spread evenly. Cover, and refrigerate.  Slice, and serve! 

Variety is the spice of life, or so, it is said. This is a recipe that avails a teenager with the opportunity to experiment and improve in skill. Once the ease of the basic recipe is seen, the brainstorming that can accompany is truly fun. Some suggestions you may offer: M & M candies, crushed Oreos, marshmallows, coconut, slices of a favorite candy bar, a drizzling of chocolate syrup or carmel sauce atop, a layer of chocolate fudge or carmel ice cream topping on the bottom. For consideration, the possibility of replacing the pudding mix with a fruit flavored jello mix, and adding in ingredients that compliment.  Creativity is perfectly suited, here, and is part of what can inspire the aspiring and reluctant, alike.