Payson High School’s culinary program commercial kitchen will be the site of a cookie bake-off competition Aug. 16, making it the single most aromatherapeutic place in all of Rim Country that Saturday. There’s still time to sign up, too; teams of 3-4 are welcome, and the event is open to 4-H and FFA members between ages 8-18. Get your team together soon; teams should perfect a recipe and practice together before the event. To sign up, scan the QR code - or to request the online signup link be emailed directly to you, email that request to 4-H volunteer and event organizer Jeneé Galt at jdgalt81@gmail.com or johngriffin@arizona.edu. Other questions? Call Galt at 970-310-3367.
On cookie competition day, teams just need to show-up at Payson High School – which will provide the kitchen, ovens and equipment. 4-H will provide the flour, sugar and powdered sugar – with gluten-free almond flour also available, upon request, as an alternative ingredient for gluten-free cookies. Teams will be judged on more than just the appearance, aroma and taste of a fresh-baked cookie, too. Inspired by the annual 4-H Beef Cook-off held each April, this club-wide event helps Gila County youth develop their skills at working in teams, organization and even public speaking.
“The 4-H youth are required to complete a set of personal development skills and one involves a presentation and public speaking,” said Galt. “Also, this helps develop a life skill because we are engaging them to go beyond just boiling water for a box meal. They have to follow a recipe and work as a team. When I attended the Beef Cook-off, I was amazed at the dishes that were created. I’m really hoping the kids will so the same at the Bake-off. I picture animal sugar cookies with coconut shaving that have been dyed in green that will represent grass. Or a large cow and mini chocolate chip cookies as the ‘cow patties’ left on the ground. Sounds really involved? Well, you never know which one of these kids could be the next entrepreneur and open a restaurant here in town!”
