How to Make Your Own Baby Food - Three Recipes All Parents Should Know

As a mom of two sets of twins I know how messy it can get when you're feeding a baby, or two, or even three! The type of bowl you use is important but also the type of food you put in your baby's bowl can also make it easier for babies to learn how to feed themselves. Soft and creamy foods are the best for little ones and you can make your own at home to not only save money but to make sure baby eats healthy. Here are three baby food recipes that all parents should know how to make.

1. Simple Applesauce

Homemade applesauce is an ideal first food for babies. When choosing your apples, go for organic ones that are firm with no blemishes. Red Delicious apples are good for their sweetness. First you start by washing and peeling your apples. Then core the apple and chop into small pieces. Cook the apple pieces in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Then drain the water and rinse with cold water for three minutes. You can puree the apples in a food processor or blender until smooth and then you're done!

2. Rice with Apple and Butternut Squash Puree

Cut your butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Then place the halves face down in a pan and cover with an inch of water. Bake the squash for 40 minutes at 400 degrees. Place the squash, cooked rice, and applesauce in a food processor or blender and add water as necessary for a smooth puree.

3. Oatmeal Cereal

Take 1/2 cup old fashioned oats and place in a food processor for 15-30 second until finely ground. Bring 1/2 cup of water to a boil and sprinkle in 2 tablespoon of ground oats and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Whisk continuously for 30 seconds and then occasionally for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture is thick and creamy.

Written by Barbara Schantz, Mom and Inventor of the Baby Dipper Bowl

The Baby Dipper bowl was invented by mom of two sets of twins, Barbara Schantz, a stay-at-home mom who faced the daunting task of feeding her twins at the same time. She became frustrated with the bowls she already had and searched everywhere for a better solution. She knew that she needed to find a bowl that would let her use just one hand to feed a baby. Disappointed with the baby bowls on the market, Schantz soon envisioned the Baby Dipper bowl and after much learning and hard work she was able to finally bring her vision to life. This innovative, mom-invented bowl is designed to stay put without the need to hold the bowl. It makes mealtime fun, easy and clean!

Interested in writing a guest blog for Sleeping Baby? Send your topic idea to pr@sleepingbaby.com. 

All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. Sleeping Baby makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, current-ness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net