Keeping Children Happy at Christmas: Rich Tea Biscuits with Cinnamon Sugar Icing

Christmas is a magical time for families, but let’s be honest—keeping children entertained and happy amidst the festive chaos can be a challenge. 

Enter the humble rich tea biscuit and a touch of homemade cinnamon sugar icing. This simple yet delightful activity and treat will engage little ones and add a festive sparkle to your holiday celebrations.

The Beauty of Rich Tea Biscuits

Rich tea biscuits are the unsung heroes of the biscuit world. They’re versatile, not overly sweet, and have a sturdy texture that makes them perfect for decorating.

Whether you're working with toddlers or school-aged children, these biscuits are an ideal blank canvas for festive creativity. (Other suitable flat biscuits can be pressed into service if rich tea biscuits aren't available.)

Why Cinnamon Sugar Icing?

Adding a festive twist to the icing with cinnamon not only enhances the flavour but also fills the air with the cosy scent of Christmas. The subtle spice pairs perfectly with the simplicity of rich tea biscuits, creating a treat that’s as pleasing to adults as it is to children.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this quick and easy activity:

For the biscuits:

A pack of rich tea biscuits (or several if you’re hosting a crowd!)

For the cinnamon sugar icing:

200g icing sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3-4 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)

A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)

Optional decorations:

Sprinkles

Edible glitter

Mini marshmallows

Chocolate chips

How to Make It

Prepare the Icing:

In a medium bowl, mix the icing sugar and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the mixture forms a smooth, spreadable consistency. If desired, add a few drops of vanilla extract for extra flavour.

Set Up the Decorating Station:

Lay out the rich tea biscuits on a tray or a clean surface. Place the icing in small bowls and provide a selection of decorations in separate dishes. Make sure each child has their own spoon or small spatula to spread the icing.

Get Decorating:

Let the children spread the cinnamon sugar icing onto the biscuits. Encourage them to get creative with sprinkles, marshmallows, and other decorations. This is their moment to shine, so don’t worry about perfection!

Allow to Set:

Once decorated, place the biscuits on a baking sheet or cooling rack to allow the icing to set. This will take about 15-20 minutes at room temperature.

Enjoy the Fruits of Their Labour:

Serve the biscuits with a cup of warm milk or hot chocolate, and watch as the children beam with pride at their creations.

The Benefits of This Activity

Keeps Children Engaged: The decorating process is fun, hands-on, and keeps little hands busy.

Encourages Creativity: Kids can express themselves through their choice of decorations and designs.

Creates Festive Memories: This activity is a wonderful way to spend quality time together during the holidays.

Easy Cleanup: Since the icing is thick and the biscuits don’t crumble excessively, the mess is minimal compared to more elaborate baking projects.

A Christmas Tradition in the Making

Rich tea biscuits with cinnamon sugar icing might just become a new Christmas tradition in your household. They’re easy to make, delightful to decorate, and delicious to eat. Plus, this activity provides a wonderful opportunity for bonding and laughter, which is the true magic of the festive season.

So this Christmas, stock up on rich tea biscuits and let the cinnamon-infused fun begin. Your children—and your taste buds—will thank you!

The person who taught me this idea? My own mother who used this simple trick to keep us occupied whilst she was busy with other Christmas tasks.

Feeling tired over Christmas? Before you Reach for the Energy Drinks Think about the Dangers of Energy Drinks and Safer Alternatives for a Natural Boost

Tired at Christmas? Don't reach for the energy drinks

Over Christmas we tend to burn the candle at both ends and tire ourselves out with hosting guests, preparing the decorations, wrapping presents and cooking food. 

Many of us tend to reach for a can of so-called energy drink in order to give us a boost so we can carry on. But that's not a good idea. Read on to learn why. 

In recent years, energy drinks have become a ubiquitous fixture on supermarket shelves and in the hands of countless people looking for a quick energy boost. 

Marketed as the perfect pick-me-up for busy lives, they promise heightened alertness, improved concentration, and enhanced physical performance. 

However, beneath the flashy branding lies a cocktail of health risks that should not be ignored.

The Hidden Dangers of Energy Drinks

Excessive Caffeine Content

Most energy drinks contain staggering levels of caffeine, often far exceeding the safe daily limit for many individuals. Over-consumption of these energy drinks can, therefore, lead to side effects such as heart palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, and, in severe cases, caffeine toxicity. Regular intake can also result in dependency, making it difficult to function without the stimulant.

High Sugar Levels

While caffeine provides the buzz, sugar delivers the "crash." Many energy drinks contain alarmingly high amounts of sugar, which can cause blood sugar spikes followed by sharp drops, leaving you feeling more fatigued than before. Over time, this can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

Strain on the Heart

The combination of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants can place undue strain on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that energy drinks can increase blood pressure and heart rate, potentially leading to arrhythmias and other heart-related complications.

Additives and Artificial Ingredients

Many energy drinks are loaded with artificial flavourings, preservatives, and questionable "energy-boosting" ingredients such as taurine and guarana. The long-term effects of consuming these in large quantities are not fully understood, raising concerns about their safety.

Impact on Mental Health

Regular consumption of energy drinks has been linked to increased levels of anxiety, irritability, and even depression. The sharp highs and lows they induce can negatively impact mood and cognitive function.

Safer Alternatives for Sustained Energy

Rather than relying on energy drinks for a quick fix, consider these healthier, more sustainable options to keep your energy levels high throughout the day:

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue. Simply drinking water or adding a slice of lemon for a refreshing twist can make a significant difference.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Whole foods rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats provide steady energy. Snack on nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit for a natural pick-me-up.

Embrace Green Tea

With its moderate caffeine content and the calming compound L-theanine, green tea provides a balanced boost without the jitters. It also offers numerous health benefits, including antioxidants.

Get Enough Sleep

No amount of caffeine can substitute for quality rest. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night to recharge your body and mind.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity stimulates blood flow and the release of endorphins, which can naturally boost your energy and improve your mood. A brisk walk or a short workout can work wonders.

Mind Your Caffeine Sources

If you enjoy a caffeine boost, opt for black coffee or matcha, which are free from sugar and artificial additives. Limit your intake to avoid dependency.

Try Adaptogens

Herbal supplements like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and ginseng are known for their energy-boosting properties and can support your body in managing stress. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine.

Practise Mindfulness

Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve focus, indirectly boosting energy by promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

The Bottom Line

Energy drinks may offer a quick solution to fatigue, but their long-term effects on your health are not worth the risk. By adopting healthier habits and choosing natural alternatives, you can maintain your energy levels without compromising your well-being. Remember, sustained energy comes from a balanced lifestyle, not a can of sugar and stimulants.

Your health deserves better—ditch the energy drinks and fuel your day the natural way!