Stress baking has become a popular pastime for many individuals seeking solace in the kitchen. The act of mixing, kneading, and baking is often hailed as a therapeutic escape from life’s pressures. However, like any coping mechanism, stress baking has its pros and cons. Let’s dive into the benefits and potential pitfalls of this flour-dusted habit.
The Pros of Stress Baking
1. It’s Therapeutic
Baking offers a hands-on activity that can help you focus on the present moment. The repetitive motions of whisking, kneading dough, or rolling out pastry can serve as a form of mindfulness, similar to meditation. Many find comfort in following a recipe, as it provides structure during chaotic times.
2. Creative Outlet
Baking is an art as much as it is a science. Decorating cookies, experimenting with flavors, or shaping bread allows for creativity, which can help redirect stress into something productive and beautiful.
3. Sense of Accomplishment
When stress makes you feel out of control, the act of successfully baking something can restore a sense of competence. The final product—whether it’s a perfectly risen cake or a batch of golden cookies—provides tangible proof of your efforts.
4. Connection with Others
Baking often leads to sharing. Whether you’re delivering treats to neighbors or enjoying them with family, the act of giving baked goods fosters connection. Social bonding can alleviate feelings of stress and loneliness.
5. Mood-Boosting Effects
The aroma of freshly baked goods is scientifically proven to elevate mood. Additionally, the anticipation of enjoying a sweet treat can trigger the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone.
The Cons of Stress Baking
1. Overeating and Unhealthy Habits
Stress baking often results in sugary, high-calorie treats. While indulging occasionally is fine, turning to baked goods too often as a coping mechanism may lead to weight gain and other health concerns.
2. Financial Costs
Baking requires ingredients, tools, and sometimes specialized equipment. Regular stress baking can strain your budget, especially if you frequently try elaborate recipes.
3. Time-Consuming
Baking can be a lengthy process, which might add to stress if you have other responsibilities or deadlines. Spending hours in the kitchen may not be practical during particularly busy times.
4. Perfectionism Pitfalls
Stress can sometimes amplify the desire for perfection. If a recipe doesn’t turn out as expected, it might worsen feelings of frustration or failure instead of alleviating them.
5. Potential Dependency
While baking is a healthier coping mechanism than some alternatives, relying solely on it to manage stress can prevent you from addressing the root causes of your stress or exploring other, potentially more effective, stress-relief strategies.
Balancing the Pros and Cons
To enjoy the benefits of stress baking without falling into its potential pitfalls, consider the following tips:
• Practice Moderation: Bake smaller portions or share your creations to avoid overindulging.
• Set a Budget: Keep an eye on ingredient costs and stick to simpler recipes if needed.
• Focus on Process, Not Perfection: Remind yourself that the act of baking is therapeutic, even if the result isn’t Instagram-worthy.
• Try Healthier Recipes: Experiment with low-sugar, whole-grain, or plant-based baking to make the habit more sustainable.
• Explore Other Stress-Relief Methods: Combine baking with activities like exercise, journaling, or therapy for a holistic approach to stress management.
Stress baking can be a powerful tool for relaxation, creativity, and connection. However, it’s important to remain mindful of its potential downsides. By striking a balance, you can turn stress baking into a rewarding and sustainable way to navigate life’s challenges. After all, a little sweetness can go a long way in brightening your day.
Eggnog Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe
This rich and flavorful eggnog bread is the perfect holiday treat! Infused with the warm spices of eggnog and topped with a sweet, creamy glaze, it’s a festive way to celebrate the season.
Ingredients
For the Eggnog Bread:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Add-ins:
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ½ cup white chocolate chips
For the Eggnog Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons eggnog
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
2. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog.
2. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3. If using nuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them in.
Step 5: Bake
1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Eggnog Glaze
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Adjust the consistency by adding more eggnog (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
1. Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the eggnog glaze over the top.
2. Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg, if desired.
3. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Storage
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it (without the glaze) for up to 3 months.
This eggnog bread is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift!
Cheddar Bacon Jalapeño Scones Recipe
These savory scones are packed with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeños, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or soup for ultimate comfort.
Ingredients
Scones:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• ¾ cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg
Optional Toppings:
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Mix-Ins
1. Stir in the shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and chopped jalapeños until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. If the dough is too dry, add an extra tablespoon of cream.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
2. Pat the dough into a 1-inch-thick circle or rectangle.
3. Cut the dough into 8 wedges (if circular) or squares/rectangles.
Step 7: Bake
1. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
2. Brush the tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with additional cheese or top with jalapeño slices, if desired.
3. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
1. Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Storage
Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
These cheddar bacon jalapeño scones are a delightful balance of savory, cheesy, and spicy flavors, perfect for any occasion!
Apple Cider Pound Cake with Apple Cider Glaze
This Apple Cider Pound Cake is rich, moist, and bursting with warm, spiced apple flavor. Topped with a luscious apple cider glaze, it’s the perfect dessert for fall or any time you’re craving something cozy and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Pound Cake:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup sour cream
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons apple cider (more if needed)
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or spray it with a non-stick baking spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
Step 4: Add Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the apple cider and sour cream.
2. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
1. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 65-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Apple Cider Glaze
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, apple cider, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth.
2. Adjust the consistency by adding more apple cider (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
1. Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
2. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve the cake as is, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cake can also be frozen (without the glaze) for up to 3 months.
This Apple Cider Pound Cake with Apple Cider Glaze is sure to become a seasonal favorite, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Not Your Grams Kitchen 