[For Seniors] April Snack Activity: Ideas to Enjoy Spring with Homemade Sweets
April, when the spring breeze starts to feel pleasant, is the perfect season for snack activities that let you enjoy seasonal flavors and colors.
From classic Japanese sweets like sakura mochi and strawberry daifuku to visually delightful treats such as cherry blossom–flavored cakes and jellies, we’re introducing recipes that capture the spirit of spring.
Some can be made without using heat or while seated, so they’re safe and enjoyable for older adults as well.
How about savoring a spring moment through lively, fun snack-time activities?
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[For Seniors] April Snack Recreation: Ideas to Enjoy Spring with Homemade Sweets (51–60)
Tarte Tatin
Speaking of tarte Tatin, it’s a dish that whets your appetite with the toasty aroma of apples.
Some people might think it seems difficult to make.
The version introduced here is very easy to prepare on a hot plate.
Apple peels and cores are packed with nutrients, so just trim off the hard parts and use the rest.
Dice the apples into bite-size cubes, put them in a heatproof container, and microwave them.
Make caramel by heating sugar and water in aluminum cups, then add the apples.
Pour in the batter made with flour and butter, and steam-fry for about 2 minutes on each side.
It’s a recipe whose aroma alone could make you happy!
French toast
Place a hot plate on the table and try making French toast.
It’s recommended for older adults because they can enjoy cooking while seated.
Prepare slices of bread cut into bite-sized pieces.
Put eggs and milk into a bowl and have the older adult mix them.
Soak the bread in the mixture, then cook it on the hot plate greased with butter or oil.
It may remind older adults of times when they cooked and served meals for their families.
It’s easy to make, so please give it a try.
warabi mochi (bracken-starch jelly dessert)
Authentic warabi mochi is made using warabi starch, but this version is easier and can be prepared with ingredients you probably already have at home.
The main ingredient is potato starch (katakuriko).
Put the potato starch, sugar, and water into a pot and mix well before turning on the heat, then cook while stirring.
Keep stirring until it thickens and turns translucent, then gather it into one mass and transfer it to ice water.
In the ice water, divide it into bite-sized pieces, drain well, plate them, and top with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup).
Using a nonstick pot with a fluororesin coating makes it easier to bring the mixture together.
Cooking with fruit
How about trying a simple dish using fruit? In this video, we introduce Fruit Spring Rolls made with fruit, sweet red bean paste (anko), and Vietnamese rice paper.
Since many people have allergies these days, no eggs, dairy, or wheat are used here.
It’s really easy, so everyone—from small children to older adults—can enjoy making them together.
Using a variety of colorful fruits makes them look festive!
[For Seniors] April Snack Activities: Ideas to Enjoy Spring with Homemade Sweets (61–70)
Fruit omelet
Let’s make a fruit omelette that’s perfect for Hinamatsuri and easy to prepare in the microwave.
Omelettes are soft and easy to eat, making them a great option for seniors.
Plus, it’s appealing that you can enjoy lots of fruit with it.
First, make the batter using eggs, milk, and pancake mix.
Then just heat it in the microwave and it’s done! Finally, sandwich your favorite fruits in the omelette.
And of course, don’t forget the whipped cream!
Marshmallow Arrangement Recipes
When it comes to springtime treats, recipes using marshmallows are a great choice.
You can enjoy their fluffy texture and sweet aroma, and they’re perfect for making together as a group.
Using a microwave makes them easy to prepare, so older adults can join in comfortably.
Drizzling chocolate or adding fruit makes them even more festive.
If everyone takes on a role while cooking, the conversation will really flow.
Once they’re ready, prepare some tea and take your time savoring them.
It’s a lovely way to spend time while feeling the arrival of spring.
Making roasted marshmallows
The skillet, which became a huge hit because it can be used for cooking and brought straight to the table, is perfect for this: skillet-baked marshmallows with chocolate.
All you need are chocolate and marshmallows—just layer them in the skillet in order.
Bake in a toaster oven and it’s done.
It’s quick, requires no knives, and is an easy snack activity that many older adults can join.
It’s also great for White Day events at senior facilities.
For seniors who enjoy barbecues, toasted marshmallows may feel familiar.
For those who haven’t tried them, they can enjoy both the delicious taste of warm marshmallows and the fun surprise of toasting them.
Give it a try!