With spring around the corner, our Earth’s health is top of mind. Reducing food waste while baking is one way to minimize your environmental footprint—and it’s easier than you think! Here are some simple eco-friendly baking tips to help you clean up in the kitchen and get the most out of your food.
Keep your pantry organized
The first step in reducing food waste from your baking projects is to keep an organized pantry. Store ingredients like oats, flour, and sugar in air-tight containers to preserve shelf life. A “first-in, first-out” system, where you place newer ingredients behind older ones, ensures you use your supplies before their expiration dates. Keeping your pantry tidy and well-organized also reduces the risk of buying unnecessary duplicates. For more pantry organization tips, check out our recent blog on this topic!
Freeze leftovers
If you’re a busy baker, once in a while you may find yourself with too many treats on hand! While there are worse problems than having an abundance of cookies, it can be tempting to throw out the extras. Next time you bake too much, try freezing the leftovers in airtight containers. Most baked goods, including cookies, muffins and brownies, can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing their quality. When you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, simply remove them from the freezer and let thaw for a few hours.
Bake only what you need
Another way to combat kitchen waste is to bake only what you need. Many recipes provide instructions for modifying the ingredient amounts so that you can reduce the number of servings. Using pre-made cookie dough, like our Frozen Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough, is another way to reduce waste because it allows you to bake only as many cookies as you need. Pop one or two in the oven for a late-night snack!
Making a one-off recipe like a pie or cake for a special occasion? Instead of buying ingredients you won’t use again, try one of our Ready to Bake Pies or delicious cakes!
Get creative with leftovers and overripe fruit
Using leftovers and overripe fruit is a great way to cut down on kitchen waste while saving money! You can never go wrong with turning ripe bananas into banana bread, but don’t be afraid to get creative with other fruits. Overripe berries, cherries, and peaches are perfect for making cobblers and crisps. Other leftovers make the perfect starting point for baking. Day-old bread? Turn it into bread pudding! Leftover egg yolks or whites? Use the whites for meringues and the yolks for custard. The sky’s the limit!
Compost your scraps
Food scraps like eggshells and fruit peels can be composted instead of thrown in the trash. If your municipality doesn’t have composting services, consider starting your own backyard compost pile, which can be a fun project to do with kids!
With these five practices for reducing food waste, you’re on your way to becoming a more environmentally friendly baker. Caring for the planet has never tasted so good! For more baking tips, check out our blogs, subscribe to our email, and follow us on Instagram!