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Spicing Up Seniors' Lives: How to Set Up a Cooking Class Aged Care Residents Will Love

aged care residents enjoying a cooking class

Are you ready to whip up some fun and make your residents' hearts (and tummies) happy? Setting up a cooking class is the perfect recipe for success!


It’s not just about the delicious treats at the end, but also about the joy of cooking together.


If you’re looking to set up a cooking class that residents will love, making rum balls and shortbread is a fantastic choice. These recipes are simple, fun, and perfect to get everyone involved.


Let's roll into the details of setting up a cooking class making rum balls and shortbread that will leave everyone feeling warm and fuzzy.


1. Gather Your Ingredients and Supplies

Before we get things cooking, you need to assemble your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need for rum balls and shortbread:


For Rum Balls:

  • Crushed vanilla wafers or biscuits

  • Cocoa powder

  • Powdered sugar

  • Rum (or a non-alcoholic alternative)

  • Corn syrup or honey

  • Finely chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional)


For Shortbread:

  • Unsalted butter

  • Sugar

  • All-purpose flour

  • Vanilla extract

  • A pinch of salt


Don’t forget mixing bowls, spoons, baking sheets, and parchment paper. And, to avoid any messy mishaps, aprons are a must-have!


2. Create a Comfortable and Inviting Space

Set up your cooking space to be as welcoming as possible. Arrange tables so everyone can mix and mingle. Make sure the area is well-lit and cosy. If possible, add a little background music to keep things upbeat and cheerful.


3. Start with a Warm Welcome

Kick things off with a friendly welcome. Introduce yourself and explain the game plan. Let everyone know this class is all about having fun and enjoying the process, not just the final product. Share a little history about rum balls and shortbread – it’s always nice to sprinkle in some fun facts!


4. Demonstrate and Engage

Begin by demonstrating each step of the recipes. Show how to mix, roll, and bake, and sprinkle in some tips and tricks along the way. Encourage residents to ask questions and share their own cooking secrets.


For Rum Balls:

  • Mix crushed wafers, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a bowl.

  • Add rum and corn syrup (or honey), and stir until well combined.

  • Roll the mixture into small balls and coat them in chopped nuts or coconut if desired.

  • Place the rum balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.


For Shortbread:

  • Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

  • Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

  • Gradually mix in the flour until the dough comes together.

  • Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.

  • Gently flatten each ball with a fork.

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C until the edges are lightly golden.


5. Encourage Participation

Encourage residents to get hands-on. Whether they’re mixing ingredients, rolling rum balls, or flattening shortbread, everyone can play a part. It’s a great way to make sure everyone’s having a “grate” time!


6. Share Stories and Create Connections

While the treats are baking, take the opportunity to share stories and make connections. Ask residents about their favourite holiday memories or family recipes. It’s a wonderful way to “cook” up some conversation and create a sense of community.


7. Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labour

Once the rum balls and shortbread are ready, it’s time to taste the fruits (or should we say sweets?) of your labour! Serve the treats with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, and enjoy the smiles all around. Compliment everyone on their hard work – they’ve truly earned it!


8. Capture the Moment

Don’t forget to capture the moment! Take some photos of the class in action and the final products (with everyone’s permission, of course). These can be shared in a community newsletter or displayed in common areas to remind everyone of the fun they had.


9. Plan for the Future

Gather feedback and ideas for future cooking classes. Find out what other recipes residents might be interested in and what they enjoyed most about this class. This will help you keep things “sizzling” in future sessions.


Setting up a cooking class for aged care residents is a wonderful way to bring joy, connection, and delicious treats into their lives. With these tips, your class on making rum balls and shortbread will be a “bake” through, creating warm memories and delightful moments for everyone involved.

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