Baking means different things to different people. It’s a chance to bridge together cultures and communities all with a simple whisk of batter or piping of icing. It’s also a therapeutic and stress-relieving activity, a sense of healing for those who love it, and it’s an exciting opportunity to explore a new passion for novices.
In the past two weeks, Los Angeles was hit with horrific fires that destroyed buildings and left many unable to return to the very place they call home. This disaster has brought immense stress, pain and loss to our community, and while there is no way to undo the past, we can find ways to ease the burden and bring comfort.
Baking can provide such comfort. It’s not just the food itself that’s comforting, it’s the feeling you get when you know someone took time to make something for you. Baking for others is a way to lift their spirits if they’re struggling with loss and sadness.
Baking offers the soothing art of creation, mindfulness and accomplishment in times when life feels chaotic. It helps the brain refocus on something tangible during times when anxiety makes your mind wander. Baking gives hope during a time of distress; as a baker, you have the ability to help even in this small way.
Right now, Poly students have the opportunity to strengthen community bonds and build new friendships. The Poly Bake Off is a prime example of how people can appreciate each others’ hard work while also accomplishing personal feats.
Baking is a great way to build and strengthen a community, especially in a time where people can feel so lost and alone. It is essential that Poly comes together as a community to help everyone cope with their stress, and baking is indeed a great way to get through these times.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
½ cup + 2 tbsp butter, softened
½ cup light brown soft sugar
½ cup + 2 tbsp of granulated sugar
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups self-raising flour
½ tsp salt
1 cup + 2 tbsp chocolate chips
- Preheat the oven to 350°F
- Cream the butter and both sugars together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and salt. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly combined.
- Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls for a rustic look, or shape the dough into a log and slice for uniform cookies.
- Place the cookie dough on ungreased baking paper. For soft and doughy cookies, bake for 7 minutes. For firmer cookies with golden edges, bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit for 1 minute on the tray before letting them cool. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container!
