Squishmallows Cookbook: The Baking Book

The Squishmallows Baking Book is probably the cutest cookbook I'll read all year. This cookbook has 50 easy recipes inspired by the cutest toy right now. This Squishmallows cookbook is sure to be a hit with any fans, and it's especially perfect to give as a gift this holiday season.

I received this book for free from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. While I haven't cooked from this book, I evaluated its usability, recipe structure, and overall appeal.

Mission

The mission of the Squishmallow cookbook centers around bringing the cozy, fun essence of Squishmallows into the kitchen, encouraging families and fans to explore playful recipes. It aims to create a sense of comfort, joy, and creativity in cooking, with recipes that inspire fans to make food that looks and feels as delightful as their favorite plushies.

Audience

If you have a Squishmallows fan in your life, and you're not sure what to get them for the holidays, this would be the perfect gift, especially if you don't know which ones they have or want to give something more than just stuffed animals.

While the theme of the books seems like it should be very kid-friendly, the recipes need either an older child or adult to help a younger one complete. With recipes like cinnamon rolls, cheesy scones or three-color dough cookies, a little one will definitely some supervision and support to make them. The cookbook has beautiful pictures and illustrations of the Squishmallow characters, so a smaller child would definitely like looking through the book.

What I liked

It lists measurements in grams, which is perfect for baking with kids. Grab a scale and have them look at the numbers until you reach what the recipe says. It also means it's more likely for the bake to turn out properly!
The range of recipes is really cool. They're not all the easiest to bake, especially with a child, but if I had gotten something like this, I would have been inspired and learned about new desserts I had never heard of.

FAQ

Is it good for weeknight cooking?

It's not ideal for weeknight cooking. Some of the recipes might be, but there aren't any time indicators for how long the recipes will take, so you need to read through the recipe to find out the total time to make.
I'd recommend Rutabaga's chocolate chip cookie cups for an easy, evening bake. It only takes about 20 minutes to bake, plus the time to mix the ingredients together.

Does it focus on basics or more advanced techniques?

It's a mix, but I lean more towards advanced techniques. The recipes weren't chosen based on how easy they are to make, so you end up with some harder bakes, like macarons or a whole unicorn cake. Some of the recipes would be easier for a beginner baker, but the instructions themselves generally assume a base level of knowledge already.

How is the picture quality and quantity?

The pictures are beautiful. There is a picture for each recipe, but there are no pictures of the baking process.

Does it need unique tools?

You'll need a pastry bag and tips if you want to decorate with frosting, as well as variety of tins for the different types of cakes.

Does it need unique ingredients?

Mainly, you'll need the full scope of baking ingredients, including powdered sugar, baking soda, flour, and all the other ones.
Some recipes need fruit or vegetables that are generally easy to find, so make sure you look through the ingredient list of your specific bake before you go to the grocery store.

Can I read it like a book?

It's mostly recipes and pictures of squishmallows. Each recipe has a little blurb on which character would like that food. I think a squishmallow obsessed child would love it, but it might be too easy reading for an adult.

To-Make List

Caden's s'mores

Check out all the recipes in the book here

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