What is your favorite Quaker Oats recipe?
I am loving the new Banana Oat Chocolate Pancakes recipe I created for this partnership! It has wholesome ingredients and combines two things I love – pancakes and oatmeal. Who doesn’t love bananas and chocolate? It also has some incredible spices that are nice and warm. I think they’re perfect for the fall and winter.
Do your kids love Quaker Oats?
My son absolutely loves to have Quaker Oats. The coolest thing about oatmeal is its versatility. It’s quick and it’s practical and it’s easy for me to keep meals fresh and exciting. And you don’t just have to use it at breakfast. It can be used during all mealtimes including as a base for a bowl of fruits or vegetables.
What does Cree love most about the holidays?
The presents, of course! He loves a good surprise.
How is Cairo getting into the spirit of the season?
Right now we’re visiting Chicago, and she’s really enjoying the colder weather. She’s all bundled up in little sweater outfits. I’m having a lot of fun dressing her for the season!
You portray Dodie in the upcoming Lifetime film, A Very Vintage Christmas. In what ways can you identify with her character? What do you hope viewers take away from the film?
I was a psych major in college, which is an incredible resource as an actor. Through my studies, I learned how to understand why people behave the way they do. So when it came to Dodie, I figured out some questions to ask her in order to discover why she was so fascinated with antiques. Then I guess you could say, “I became one with the character,” found the answers, and, most importantly, added my love of Christmas!
What advice would you give parents about teaching kids about the importance of giving back this holiday season?
Kids learn through observation, so my advice to parents would be “show your kids how you give back.” Talking is one thing, but actually incorporating your children into how you give back and showing them how they can give back is the best way for them to learn. Every year, Cree and I go through his toys and give some away to children in need. You’re never too young to participate in helping others.
Can you give us a heads up on a few of the holiday recipes you have in store for us on Quick Fix?
It’s definitely Comfort Food at its finest, but practical! Cooking during the holidays can be overwhelming. Feeling bombarded with the demands of the season can make people not want to be in the kitchen. But that’s what I love about QUICK FIX and COMFORT KITCHEN, it’s about turning these delicious comfort foods into practical recipes that anyone can handle, even during the holidays.
Photo: Tia Mowry/Instagram
