Edible Model of the Sun

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In this activity, learners make "solar cookies," edible models of the Sun's outer layers using sugar cookies and toppings. Learners use red and yellow sprinkles to form the granular appearance of the photosphere, chocolate chips as sunspots, and licorice pieces as prominences. Use this tasty activity to introduce learners to the layers and features of the Sun.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • round plain cookies (most generic brand sugar cookies would work.)
  • white frosting
  • yellow and red sprinkles (found with baking decorations and food colorings in grocery stores.)
  • chocolate chips or M&M's (We found that mini ones work best.)
  • Pull-n-peel licorice candy, such as Twizzlers
  • plastic knives
  • small paper plates or napkins
  • images of the Sun

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Stars and Galaxies
    • Solar System
      • The Sun

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking
  • Model Building

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • Public domain, NASA,