Getting your kids in the kitchen is a great way to get them thinking creatively and learning about a little thing called “discipline” (mix that in here, step away from the stove, turn the timer on for this amount of time, etc.). But getting them started can be tricky, especially if it’s a basic recipe with no intriguing textures or colors. Enter these basic recipes ideas, which we promise will have them oohing and awing while cracking and mixing.

Crescent Dogs

If they’re a hot dog fanatic, like most kids are, they’ll adore making this easy, three-ingredient classic from Pillsbury.

Mug Cakes

Baking a cake in a mug? Now that’s just going to make their jaws drop right off the bat. Get the recipe from Food Network.

Chicken Nugget Skewers

Okay, so this one requires little cooking. But skewering anything will get them in an apron in no time, especially if it involves chicken nuggets, fruit and cubes of cheese. Inspired by this recipe from Kraft.

Unicorn Toast

A trendy pick, this colorful recipe will sweeten any morning or afterschool-snack routine. Plus, food coloring is involved, which I thought was just plain magical as a child. We like this recipe from Delish.