What Boxed Brownies Taught Me About Baking

Lately, I’ve been trying to remind myself that baking doesn’t always have to be a production.

Not every bake needs a long ingredient list, browned butter, or fancy equipment (yes, even a mixer). Sometimes, it’s just about quieting your mind, following a few simple steps, and ending up with something warm and delicious for people to enjoy.

That’s what making boxed brownies taught me this week.

I know, I know – the baking cardinal sin. But just hear me out.

I was feeling uninspired after a long week at work and needed to slow down and ground myself, so I reached for the brownie mix. I wanted the experience – measuring, whisking by hand, pouring the batter into a pan – without the pressure of getting everything “right”. There was something surprisingly calming about knowing the brownies would turn out fine, no matter what.

I even added a small twist and swapped the oil for Greek yogurt. They actually turned out delicious. Granted, the yogurt definitely gave it a cakier texture than oil would have, but still really good. Anyways, back to the point.

I love baking from scratch – obviously – but this experience reminded me that, at its core, baking isn’t about proving yourself. It’s about showing up, using your hands, and creating something that brings people together. My boyfriend and I enjoyed the brownies on the couch while watching a movie, and our cat curled up beside us.

There’s a certain kind of calm that comes from stirring and focusing on one task. No optimizing. No multitasking. That’s something I’ve been craving more of lately while juggling work and the blog.

Maybe someone out there needed to hear this, because I sure did: Baking does not have to be “impressive” to be meaningful. Sometimes it just needs to exist.

Honestly? That feels like a lesson worth keeping.