Father’s Day cooking projects for kids
Getting the kids in the kitchen isn’t just about cupcakes and sweet treats – we have 10 proper meals that can be whipped up by the smallest of hands this Father’s Day...
If the Dad in your life is a parent of young children, then he might want nothing more than some time to himself this Father’s Day. Let him have a lie-in while you and the kids create brunch or lunch for the whole family. The kids get their chance to have fun in the kitchen and make something special, while you get to soak up your share of the glory.
Top 10 Father’s Day dishes for kids
1. Mini toad-in-the-holes
A classic childhood favourite, that dad is sure to love – food editor Barney has adapted this sausage and batter recipe to cook with children. There are plenty of jobs for little hands, from cracking eggs to making gravy. From the age of nine onwards, kids can follow most of the steps by themselves. The recipe might be simple but the results are truly delicious...
2. Crispy chicken strips
These irresistibly crispy chicken katsu strips are the perfect finger food to serve at a relaxed family meal. Kids can help with cutting the chicken pieces and rolling in panko breadcrumbs, along with making an easy homemade katsu sauce and carrot salad to serve on the side. After impressing Dad, they are sure to want to make it again for friends.
3. Blueberry & lemon pancakes
We challenge anyone not to be pleased by a plate of these scrumptious pancakes. Older kids can go on a secret morning mission downstairs to whip them up, getting busy with measuring, mixing and liberally adding blueberries. If you want to minimise the mess, put them to work creating and colouring a breakfast menu while you flip. Serve with coffee, juice and the papers, for extra points.
4. Vegan Thai green curry
If Dad is following a vegan diet, then prepare to amaze him with this fragrant, veg-packed Thai green curry. So simple to stir up, with an added flavour boost from Thai green curry paste and creamy coconut milk, this dish is perfect for making last minute after a family day out.
5. Blueberry & lemon croissant bake
Combine croissants, blueberries and creamy lemon curd to make this simple yet sensational bake for an indulgent Father’s Day brunch. Kids can help arranging the croissant pieces and stirring up a basic lemony custard before scattering over blueberries and final dollops of curd. Leave the oven to work its magic and you’ll have created something special using just a handful of ingredients.
Blueberry & lemon croissant bake
6. Chicken & bean enchiladas
Hearty doesn’t have to mean unhealthy. These tasty chicken, red pepper and black bean enchiladas are simply brimming with goodness, so Dad can pack in four of his 5-a-day whilst also enjoying a special meal. Easy to prepare, this will be a great way of teaching children how to up the veg content of a classic comfort food dish.
7. Really easy roast chicken
This very simple recipe has been written so that your child can easily get involved every step of the way. The results are a beautifully roasted chicken with carrots, potatoes and a lemony gravy to serve. If Dad’s really in the good books, give him time to himself while the preparation is underway. Your young cooks will be amazed at what they’ve achieved as they watch the family digging in.
8. Sunshine burgers
Brighten up Dad’s day with these hearty, homemade burgers and let the kids practice their rolling, shaping and cooking skills at the same time. If the weather’s good, send Dad into the garden for some peace while the kids bash the cornflakes, mix and shape their burgers to perfection. Gather round for a relaxed al fresco lunch...
9. Baked dippy eggs
If you’re helping a little chef, then is the perfect recipe for children aged three to six. They’ll love snipping up the spinach and ham, chopping cherry tomatoes and cracking eggs into the ramekins. Let them present the finished dish and they’ll be bursting with pride (as will Dad!)
10. Steak haché with pommes frites & cheat’s Béarnaise sauce
Despite the fancy name, this classic French recipe is essentially a bun-less burger & chips that you can easily create with kids at home. Your little helpers can mix together the beef mince patties with herbs and flavours whilst you prepare the pomme frites. Make a simple Béarnaise sauce to pour over and serve with a fresh salad.
Steak haché with pommes frites & cheat's Béarnaise sauce
Discover more Father’s Day recipes
What to cook on Father’s Day
Vegetarian Father’s Day menu
Vegan Father’s Day menu
Father’s Day baking for kids
Father’s Day cooking projects for kids
All our Father's Day recipes
Father's Day cake recipes
Visit our Father’s Day feature page for more inspiration.
What are your kids planning to make for Father’s Day? We’d love to hear from you...
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