Homemade Hostess Gifts for the Holidays

Party season is coming, and there is no better gift to bring along to someones home than something youve made yourself preferably something delicious. Creating something unique in your own kitchen is personal, inexpensive, and allows you to get the kids in on gift giving, allowing them to contribute in a creative way. Since the festive season is coming up quickly, here are a dozen delicious ideas for gifts to make and stash away, so youll only need to grab and go when you need to bring something to a party, want to create homemade stocking stuffers, or need something special for an important teacher, neighbour or coach this holiday season.

• 
  Pumpkin Pie Granola

  What more festive gift for the health-conscious friend than a jar of homemade pumpkin spice granola? Bonus: it will make your house smell wonderful as it bakes!
  Family Kitchen has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/pumpkin-pie-granola
• 
  Bacon Jam

  Can you think of a better gift than homemade bacon jam? It's sure to please the bacon-lover in your life!
  Family Kitchen has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/bacon-jam
• 
  Vanilla Sugar

  A jar of homemade vanilla sugar is as simple as it gets - perfect for bakers or coffee lovers!
  Family Kitchen has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/vanilla-sugar
• 
  Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix

  Who doesn't love homemade hot chocolate? DIY hot chocolate mix is easy to make, and the kids can do it too! Get them to decorate the filled jars with ribbons and sparkles.
  Family Kitchen has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/homemade-hot-chocolate-mix
• 
  Blood Orange Marmalade

  If you can get your hands on some blood oranges, which have orange skins but blood-red interiors, they made delicious marmalade with a subtle citrus flavor.
  Family Kitchen has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/blood-orange-marmalade
• 
  English Toffee

  Chocolate and nut-coated English toffee is perfect for holiday gift-giving, and easier to make from scratch than you might think!
  Patent and the Pantry has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/english-toffee
• 
  Candied Orange Peel

  Candied orange peels, or orangettes, are simple to make, dip in chocolate, and package all pretty for holiday giving.
  Sophistimom has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/candied-orange-peel
• 
  Spiced Apple Jelly

  Apple jelly is easy to make, as apples are naturally high in pectin. Flavor yours with anything: lavender, lemon balm, or a cinnamon stick in each jar.
  Dinner with Julie has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/spiced-apple-jelly
• 
  Peanut Butter & Chocolate Pretzel Squares

  Cookies are always well-received at Christmastime try something different, like these chewy, crispy, salty-sweet squares, that are easy to make in large batches!
  Make peanut butter and chocolate pretzel squares
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/peanut-butter-chocolate-pretzel-squares
• 
  Chocolate-covered Peppermint Oreos

  Streamline the cookie-making process by dipping Oreos in chocolate and sprinkling with bashed candy canes they're addictive!
  Make chocolate-covered peppermint oreos
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/chocolate-covered-peppermint-oreos
• 
  Gingerbread Cookie Mix in a Jar

  Gingerbread cookies are a classic at the holidays. A simple homemade mix is perfect for giving!
  Food for My Family has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/gingerbread-cookie-mix-in-a-jar
• 
  Cinnamon Molasses Pancake Syrup

  Simple Bites has a whole assortment of homemade pancake mixes that are perfect for giving pick up glass jars or bottles to fill and tie with a bow.
  Simple Bites has the recipe!
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/cinnamon-molasses-pancake-syrup
• 
  Pumpkin Pie Spice

  A jar of your own homemade pumpkin pie spice is the gift that will keep on giving all year.
  Make pumpkin pie spice
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/pumpkin-pie-spice
• 
  Slow Cooker Apple Butter

  Thick, flavorful apple butter is simple to cook in your slow cooker, making your house smell divine.
  Make slow cooker apple butter
  /family-kitchen/2012/11/20/dozen-delicious-homemade-gifts/slow-cooker-apple-butter

Find more of Julies recipes and ideas at her blog, Dinner with Julie. You can also join her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, or find more of her posts at the Family Kitchen.

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Free Homemade Gift Ideas. Instructions for Easy Homemade Gifts to Make Free homemade gift ideas like homemade food gifts, homemade gag gifts and more! Plus, learn gift wrapping techniques and money origami. We have loads of easy homemade ... The Master List of Homemade Holiday Christmas Gifts Want to make your own holiday gifts this year? Check out this master list of unique, frugal ideas! How to Make Homemade Holiday Gifts for Dad eHow.com Surprise your dad with a holiday gift he can use over and over again throughout the year. Making a gift is always more affordable than buying one, but it also makes ... 40 Hot Homemade Gift Ideas for the Holidays: First Up, Kids ... Looking for something crunchy to make for your kids this holiday season? Here are 10+ ideas to start with. Homemade Holiday Gifts Discover The Best Homemade Holiday Gifts And Ideas Without Breaking The Bank! Cookie Jar, Homemade Biscotti and Muffins, Crafts, Food and Beverages and More Homemade for the Holidays: Edible Gifts - Saveur.com A dozen ideas for homemade edible holiday gifts, from liqueurs to spice blends to jams and preserves. 14 Creative Homemade Holiday Gift Ideas RealSimple.com Do-it-yourself projects that add that extra personal touch to gift-giving this season. Creative Homemade Holiday Gift Ideas. It's the time of year when we could all ... Homemade Holiday Gifts The best website out there to help you with your homemade holiday gifts. Tons of tutorials and lots of free PDFs to make this the best homemade holiday yet! Ask the Readers: Homemade holiday gift ideas? Money Saving Mom I know Christmas is several months off, but I am considering making some or even most of the gifts we give to our extended family this year. I would love to have your ... DIY Tutorial Homemade Hostess Gift: All-Natural Candle ... Designer Jen St. Clair from Little Sprout Creations is here with a fantastic HANDMADE GIFT TUTORIAL today! These All Natural Mandarin Mint Candles and

5 Dairy-Free Mug Recipes to Crave!

dairy-free mug recipes!

There is a crisp fall chill in the air and all you want is a warm mug of something delicious to wrap your cold hands around. Well if you are looking to try a few dairy-free sips this season, look no further. Here are 5 deliciously dairy-free mug recipes to crave including a hot chocolate, some cozy chai tea, an energizing espresso beverage and more!..

5 Dairy-Free Mug Recipes to Crave

1. Vanilla Coconut Cream Latte. Espresso meets tropical coconut and sweet vanilla flavors in this must-try, cold-weather sip. Rich and creamy, yet light and blissful. Have a mini winter vacation with each sip of this exotic-island-infused, dairy-free mug.

2. Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte. Looking to ditch the espresso? Try this chai tea-meets-pumpkin spice beverage. Stimulating spicy chai tea is an healthy way to energize your day since tea is rich in antioxidants. Warm yourself up with each sip of this spiced tea mug.

3. Cardamom Spiced Latte. There is something very holiday-ish about cardamom. And this warmly spicy mug brings together a few classic holiday accents with the elegant flavor of cardamom. If you are looking for an elegant mug to serve at a holiday brunch, give this recipe a whirl. Get all fancy with each sip of this mug.

4. Dark Chocolate Maple Cocoa. This simple cocoa has a few unique twists to make it stand out among the many holiday cocoa recipes out there. First off, it is made using deep, dark, rich dairy-free cocoa powder. Then it is sweetened with rich maple syrup for a unique flavor to crave. This cocoa is healthier than most since it skips refined sugar and milky, watered down chocolate varieties. Bring on the dark chocolate antioxidants! Grab this cozy cocoa mug and smile as you sip your way to bliss.

5. Mint Creme Soy Cocoa. Using fresh mint or peppermint extract, and creamy dairy-free soy milk, you can easily blend up a steamy, refreshing mint and chocolate beverage that will sooth your soul and slow you down. Get the recipe on Healthy. Happy. Life.

photo credit: Kathy Patalsky

Read more from Kathy on her blog, Healthy. Happy. Life.

Follow Kathy on Facebook and Twitter for updates!

More on Family Kitchen:

* Pecan Pumpkin Pie Cookies
* 5 Ways to Make Tofu Fancy for the Holidays
* 7 Recipes for Simple Sassy Tofu

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1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes (1,000 Recipes): Carol Fenster ... If you or someone you love has wheat allergies, gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, then you know how hard it is to prepare tasty, worry-free meals. From breads ... Oatmeal Applesauce Muffins Recipes - Free Diet Plans at SparkPeople Top oatmeal applesauce muffins recipes and other great tasting recipes with a healthy slant from SparkRecipes.com. Naturally Sweet Recipes: Pumpkin Spice Muffins Spiced muffins are simply the best. When the weather is cool and wet, nothing makes me happier than to bake with sweet spices. I'm the baker that pauses ... Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Elana's Pantry Simple and easy, gluten free, dairy free butternut squash soup --perfect recipe for a cold winter day. How to make Kale Chips in the oven- DIY Baked Kale Chips Recipe ... Kale Chips are the latest healthy crave. Though Kale Chips come at a hefty price in the store, people like them because of their health benefits over ... Creamy Cauliflower Soup (Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free) mideats.com Inspired by Paul Bertolli's super simple cauliflower soup recipe, I made a version of it with chicken broth, and it rocked my world! It's a perfect easy recipe for a ... Plateful: Nutella Lava Mug Cake You cant beat this recipe, really. Its decadent, something like a molten lava cakeby far one of the best Ive tasted, 2 minute or 12. Food & Drink - How To Information eHow.com Food & Drink: Don't let that next party be a flop. Be the envy of your friends thanks to eHow's entertaining secrets sure to make that next affair a success. Food is ... Healthy Recipes and Meal Ideas Trying to find healthy and delicious recipes? Food Network makes that easy with their collection of low fat, low calorie and low carb recipes. Recipe for Healthy Gluten-Free Diet: Dairy-Free and Vegan ... A kid-friendly recipe for easy dairy-free and vegan chocolate hazelnut fudge. This gluten-free recipe is ready in minutes!

Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix

Its snowing. (Where I live, anyway.) That means hot chocolate season that time of year when kids seem to have an insatiable need for frothy mugs of warm chocolate. I like to forego the packaged mix, which is full of ingredients I dont recognize and cant pronounce, for a homemade version that I can whisk together in seconds. Make it the same way you prepare other instant hot chocolates using milk as a base, rather than water. Its the best way to get your chocolate fix when the temperature drops and packaged in a vintage jar, makes a delicious and inexpensive gift, too.

Of course homemade hot chocolate mix is completely customizable add a pinch of cinnamon, or even chiles, to make spiced hot chocolate, or add a handful of mini marshmallows now so you wont have to later. To get fancy, shave some dark chocolate into your mix using a vegetable peeler or box grater or sprinkle some on top of your hot chocolate once its made.

Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix

adapted from Martha Stewart

3 1/2 cups sugar
2 1/2 cups cocoa
1 tsp. salt
Milk, for serving

In a large bowl or zip-lock bag, combine the sugar, cocoa and salt. Stir or shake to combine and store in airtight jars or zip-lock bags. To serve, stir a large, heaping spoonful into 1 cup of warm milk, or make a larger batch on the stovetop by whisking in 1-2 Tbsp. of mix per 1 cup of milk, or to taste.

Serve warm.

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Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe - Beverages Mixes Recipes - Homemade ... Make this delicious, rich and creamy hot chocolate mix recipe and give it as a gift this holiday season along with some fun mugs and spoons in a gift basket. Chocolate (recipe: Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix) Syrup and Biscuits Chocolate. Saying the word is about all it takes to get attention from a lot of folks. My favorite way to enjoy chocolate is in a good cup of hot chocolate. Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix Recipes - Make Your Own ... Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix is an easy recipe using a mix you make yourself. Make your own cake mix, then make a delicious and easy chocolate cake recipe ... Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix (and Snowman Soup Kits!) Southern Plate Today I'm bringing you another kid friendly recipe sure to please! I don't know any child who doesn't love hot chocolate, but very few who have gotten to Laura's Hot Cocoa Mix Christmas-Cookies.com Laura's Hot Cocoa Mix recipe. by Leslie Sausage - leslie@frugalhomemaker.com We love Hot Cocoa and have tried many recipes! Laura, my daughter, has Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix - Munchin with Munchkin It officially feels like winter here in Texas. The leaves are starting to fall, the air once thick with humidity is crisp and cool, and Texans have traded in their ... Hot Cocoa Recipe : Alton Brown : Recipes : Food Network 5 min; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred); 2 1/2 cups powdered milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or ... Make It From Scratch: Homemade Hot Chocolate and Mix The weather has suddenly changed to very cool and damp. The leaves have not yet turned, but it feels as if fall is here. The temperature drop has the kids ... How to Make Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix - Squidoo : Welcome to Squidoo This homemade hot chocolate mix has been a winter staple in our house for years. It only takes minutes to make a batch that will last my family all winter with enough ... Little Birdie Secrets: hot chocolate mix in a jar--a really cute jar This simple hot cocoa mix is another great neighbor/co-worker gift that you can put together super fast. It's also our weekly recipe, so don't forget to ...

7 Fall Drinks on the Secret Starbucks Kids Menu

Ill admit, we spend more money at Starbucks than we probably should. When we lived in Manhattan I stopped in nearly twice a day with my little baby girl and would also try to find things both of us could enjoy. Over time I got to know the secret kids menu. A few things were in plain sight, but a lot of things were not. For example, one Mom taught me how to order a raspberry Italian soda, another let me in on the secret babycinno. I already knew about vanilla steamers but was happy to rediscover them just in time to introduce them to my daughter. Here are seven delicious drinks that you could order for your children at Starbucks that are all caffeine free. Ive also included easy recipes for recreating the recipes successfully, and more cheaply, at home!

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  Caramel Apple Cider

  Caramel apple cider is regular cider warmed up and drizzled with a touch of caramel and whipped cream. This apple treat is terrific for kids and easy to replicate at home!
  Make caramel apple cider
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/caramel-apple-cider
• 
  Chocolate Smoothie

  Did you know Starbucks has a whole menu of smoothies? A tall chocolate smoothie can be a great treat for kids and contains no coffee whatsoever. If you want to try making this smoothie at home here is another good one that is healthy and easy to whip up!
  Make a chocolate smoothie
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/chocolate-smoothie
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  Kids Hot Chocolate

  A simple kids hot chocolate always aims to please. When the barista knows it is for a child he or she will make sure it is not too hot. This simple drink contains no coffee and is perfect for warming up after sledding. It is also easy to make at home with this simple recipe!
  Make kids hot chocolate
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/kids-hot-chocolate
• 
  Kids Peppermint Hot Chocolate

  If your child is in the mood to take his or her hot cocoa a step further ask the barista to add a shot of peppermint syrup! Here is a simple way you can also make this at home using peppermint extract.
  Make peppermint hot chocolate
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/kids-peppermint-hot-chocolate
• 
  Homemade Italian Sodas

  For a simple kids treat ask the barista to add a shot of Italian syrup to a cup with ice. Then pour in one of the little bottles of Pellegrino for an instant Italian soda! If you want to get adventurous with flavors try making your own simple syrups at home and creating new, interesting sodas that are just as fun as the ones at Starbucks.
  Make your own simple syrups and Italian sodas
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/homemade-italian-sodas
• 
  Babycinno

  The "babycinno" is the new chic drink around Brooklyn these days. To order one for your child simply ask for his or her favorite milk (cow, soy, other) to be steamed until completely frothy and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate!
  Check out how the Moms are drinking it in Brooklyn
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/babycinno
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  Vanilla Steamer with Cinnamon

  A vanilla steamer is the ultimate comfort beverage for adults and is a delicious treat for kids. Sweetened with notes of vanilla and a topping of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you can't make it to Starbucks, you can also make it at home. It is even great for dessert!
  Make a vanilla steamer with cinnamon
  /family-kitchen/2012/10/09/7-fall-drinks-on-the-secret-starbucks-kids-menu/vanilla-steamer-with-cinnamon

Some more interesting posts:

Halloween Fun: Candy Corn Tie-Dye Cake in a Jar

8 Fall Donut Recipes to Make at Home

7 Grown-Up Versions of Childhood Favorites

Read more from Kelsey on Kelseys blog!

Follow Kelsey on Facebook and Twitter for updates

Photo: Angie McGowan, Kelsey Banfield

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Healthy Makeover: Frozen Hot Chocolate

frozen hot chocolate

Wouldnt it be nice to enjoy a tall, frosty glass of Frozen Hot Chocolate without a speck of post-indulgence guilt? This healthy makeover recipe is your ticket to satisfying your cold cocoa craving while feeding your body healthy-delicious ingredients. Get my frosty recipe perfect for these still-warmish early fall days!..

Some frozen hot chocolate recipes call for a few hefty scoops of vanilla ice cream. Delicious no doubt, but then again, so is this non-dairy, ice cream-free healthy makeover recipe. This version is delicious in a tastes-just-like-a-milkshake sort of way. The secret is using frosty frozen bananas when you blend. You will end up with a frosty thick shake texture, with fewer calories and fat and the flavor is still worthy of dessert status. The bananas are not only sweet and delicious, but loaded with potassium and fiber.

Other healthy ingredients include antioxidant-rich cacao powder and nibs, protein-rich soy milk and some optional omega fatty acid and fiber rich chia seeds.

Try this recipe and realize that you dont have to add two scoops of ice cream to blend up a delicious frozen hot chocolate!

Dairy-Free Frozen Hot Chocolate
serves 1-2

2 bananas, frozen (extra ripe when frozen black spots)
1/2 3/4 cup non-dairy milk, vanilla (I like soy milk best for the creaminess)
1-2 Tbsp raw cacao powder
pinch of salt
sweeten to taste using agave syrup (you may need no additional sweetener if your bananas are very sweet)

optional ingredients..
1 tsp raw cacao nibs (optional)
1 tsp chia seeds (optional)
1/2 tsp instant coffee (optional for a mocha kick)
1/4 tsp real vanilla extract (optional)

Swirl of soy or rice whip cream on top + a pinch of cacao nibs.
A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg is also a nice touch for your frozen hot chocolate. (Add over top of into blender)

Directions: Add the cacao powder and 1/2 cup non-dairy milk to blender blend until smooth. Also add in any optional ingredients. Blend until smooth. Then add in the frozen banana and ice blend from low to high until rich and creamy. Add in more liquid to blend as needed. Use minimal amounts of liquid to achieve a thick texture. This recipe works best in a high speed blender. You may need to add another splash of non-dairy milk if your blender is low-speed.

Craving more frosty fall shake bliss? Try my dairy-free Frosty Pumpkin Shake or if you crave a warm mug version, try my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte both recipes on Healthy. Happy. Life.

image credit: Kathy Patalsky

Read more from Kathy on her blog, Healthy. Happy. Life.

Follow Kathy on Facebook and Twitter for updates!

Dont miss the latest from Family Kitchen Like Us on Facebook!

More on Family Kitchen:

* Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
* Blueberry Buzz Smoothie
* 19 Vegan Muffin Recipes for fall
* 7 Meatless Sloppy Joes
* McDonalds India to Open Vegetarian Locations!
* Stacked Mushroom Melt Veggie Burger
* Roasted Cheezy (Amazing) Broccoli

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Low Calorie Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe from Joy Bauer - Cosmopolitan Frozen Hot Chocolate. Serendipity is a NYC ice cream parlor thats known for its over-the-top Frozen Hot Chocolate. By my own calculation, each overflowing glass ... A Recipe for Healthy Blueberry and Mango Snow Cones Meal ... We don't know too many children who would turn their noses up to ice cream and other frozen treats. In fact, we can still remember hot summer days from our Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe Taste of Home Recipes Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe photo by Taste of Home. Read reviews (8) Rate recipe. Make it an occasion for chocolate lovers with this yummy ... Frozen Hot Chocolate - Food Network - Easy Recipes, Healthy Eating ... 15 min; 3 ounces best-quality chocolate (or a variety of your favorites); 2 teaspoons store bought hot chocolate mix (recommended: Serendipity Frozen Hot Chocolate ... Frozen Hot Chocolate - Chocolate Covered Katie The Healthy ... vegan frozen hot chocolate like at Serendipity ... Hot Chocolate. Cold. It seems every time I mention my love for New York City, someone will ask, Have you been ... Frozen Hot Chocolate - Recipe.com - Quick Recipes, Easy Meal Ideas ... This thick, frosty cold chocolate drink is sweet enough for dessert. Or just enjoy it as a cool snack. Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini Recipe : Sandra Lee : Recipes : Food ... 5 min; 4 (1-ounce) envelopes hot cocoa mix, divided; 3 cups milk; 3/4 cup vanilla vodka; 6 cups ice; 1/4 cup mini marshmallows, for garnish Healthy Recipe From Joy Bauer's Food Cures Frozen Hot Chocolate Frozen Hot Chocolate Serendipity is a NYC ice cream parlor thats famous for its delicious, high-calorie Frozen Hot Chocolate. I was determined to create a slimmed ... Frozen Hot Chocolate - Welcome to Heart-Healthy Living This thick, frosty cold chocolate drink is sweet enough for dessert. Or just enjoy it as a cool snack. Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe - Free Diet Plans at SparkPeople Find and rate low calorie, healthy recipes at SparkRecipes. Plus use our free recipe calculator to find the calories, carbs, fat, and protein in your recipes.

Delicious Self-Sufficiency: 8 Awesome DIY Mixes for Your Pantry

There is nothing quite as awesome as having a craving for something and finding the homemade mix for it in your pantry. In the mood for pancakes? Pull out a glass jar of healthy homemade mix and you can make it up in a jiffy! Need some brownies? Skip the boxed stuff that is full of preservative and just use the mix you made at home when you had an extra five minutes on hand. I even loved to give DIY mixes as gifts. I package them in glass jars and include a little tag about how to make the cookies, cakes or bars by adding the wet ingredients and baking. It is all so convenient and fun! Here are a few of our favorite DIY mixes to make your life easier and keep your pantry stocked!

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  Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix

  This brownie mix is the perfect way to make sure you always have super chocolatey brownies at the ready! It also can be sifted into a pretty jar and given as a gift.
  Make chocolate chip brownie mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/chocolate-chip-brownie-mix
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  Homemade Biscuit Mix

  Want to make homemade biscuits at a moments notice? Keep the mix in your pantry and they are always at the ready. There is no better way to celebrate the weekend morning than by sleeping in AND enjoying your favorite breakfast treat.
  Make homemade biscuit mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-biscuit-mix
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  Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar

  When the kids want to make cookies save yourself the hassle of finding all the ingredients - make up the mix beforehand and keep it in a jar in the pantry. In a pinch, you can even give it as a gift to any non-baking friends.
  Make chocolate chip cookie mix in a jar
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/chocolate-chip-cookie-mix-in-a-jar
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  Homemade Hot Chocolate

  Store-bought hot chocolate can sometimes be so artificial tasting. Make your own hot chocolate mix and then all you have to do is add hot water or milk and you have a delicious silky drink on hand. It always travels well in a bag - pop it in the car and take it to your ski house!
  Make homemade hot chocolate mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-hot-chocolate
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  Classic Pancake Mix

  The only problem with pancakes is that it can take so long to make up the batter in the morning. Save yourself the hassle by making up this classic pancake mix and stocking it in your pantry. Knowing it is there will easily allow you an extra 5 minutes in bed and guarantee breakfast in a jiffy.
  Make classic pancake mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/classic-pancake-mix
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  Multigrain Pancake Mix

  This delicious pancake mix is packed with protein and makes the healthiest possible version of everyone's favorite breakfast. Why not keep a big jar of it in the pantry to always have on hand for breakfast - or dinner!
  Make multigrain pancake mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/multigrain-pancake-mix
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  Cornbread Mix

  This awesome cornbread mix is so easy to make and can be stocked in a simple slider bag. If taking it camping store the wet ingredients in a separate bag. Then mix at the camp site and bake over the fire! Or, just make it at home in your oven and enjoy.
  Make cornbread mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/cornbread-mix
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  Homemade Bisquick

  Bisquick is SO much more than just pancake mix. It can be used in everything from casseroles, to stews, to biscuits, to chicken dishes. By having this simple homemade Bisquick always on hand you'll always be able to make any/all of their amazing recipes which are perfect for children and busy weeknights.
  Make homemade bisquick
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-bisquick

Some more interesting posts:

7 Snack Breads for the Lunchbox

Captain Crunch Cookies

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Read more from Kelsey on Kelseys blog!

Follow Kelsey on Facebook and Twitter for updates

Photo: Brooke McLay

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Delicious Self-Sufficiency: 7 Awesome DIY Mixes for Your Pantry

There is nothing quite as awesome as having a craving for something and finding the homemade mix for it in your pantry. In the mood for pancakes? Pull out a glass jar of healthy homemade mix and you can make it up in a jiffy! Need some brownies? Skip the boxed stuff that is full of preservative and just use the mix you made at home when you had an extra five minutes on hand. I even loved to give DIY mixes as gifts. I package them in glass jars and include a little tag about how to make the cookies, cakes or bars by adding the wet ingredients and baking. It is all so convenient and fun! Here are a few of our favorite DIY mixes to make your life easier and keep your pantry stocked!

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  Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix

  This brownie mix is the perfect way to make sure you always have super chocolatey brownies at the ready! It also can be sifted into a pretty jar and given as a gift.
  Make chocolate chip brownie mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/chocolate-chip-brownie-mix
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  Homemade Biscuit Mix

  Want to make homemade biscuits at a moments notice? Keep the mix in your pantry and they are always at the ready. There is no better way to celebrate the weekend morning than by sleeping in AND enjoying your favorite breakfast treat.
  Make homemade biscuit mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-biscuit-mix
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  Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar

  When the kids want to make cookies save yourself the hassle of finding all the ingredients - make up the mix beforehand and keep it in a jar in the pantry. In a pinch, you can even give it as a gift to any non-baking friends.
  Make chocolate chip cookie mix in a jar
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/chocolate-chip-cookie-mix-in-a-jar
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  Homemade Hot Chocolate

  Store-bought hot chocolate can sometimes be so artificial tasting. Make your own hot chocolate mix and then all you have to do is add hot water or milk and you have a delicious silky drink on hand. It always travels well in a bag - pop it in the car and take it to your ski house!
  Make homemade hot chocolate mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-hot-chocolate
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  Classic Pancake Mix

  The only problem with pancakes is that it can take so long to make up the batter in the morning. Save yourself the hassle by making up this classic pancake mix and stocking it in your pantry. Knowing it is there will easily allow you an extra 5 minutes in bed and guarantee breakfast in a jiffy.
  Make classic pancake mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/classic-pancake-mix
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  Multigrain Pancake Mix

  This delicious pancake mix is packed with protein and makes the healthiest possible version of everyone's favorite breakfast. Why not keep a big jar of it in the pantry to always have on hand for breakfast - or dinner!
  Make multigrain pancake mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/multigrain-pancake-mix
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  Cornbread Mix

  This awesome cornbread mix is so easy to make and can be stocked in a simple slider bag. If taking it camping store the wet ingredients in a separate bag. Then mix at the camp site and bake over the fire! Or, just make it at home in your oven and enjoy.
  Make cornbread mix
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/cornbread-mix
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  Homemade Bisquick

  Bisquick is SO much more than just pancake mix. It can be used in everything from casseroles, to stews, to biscuits, to chicken dishes. By having this simple homemade Bisquick always on hand you'll always be able to make any/all of their amazing recipes which are perfect for children and busy weeknights.
  Make homemade bisquick
  /family-kitchen/2012/09/13/delicious-self-sufficiency-7-awesome-diy-mixes-for-your-pantry/homemade-bisquick

Some more interesting posts:

7 Snack Breads for the Lunchbox

Captain Crunch Cookies

Apple Pies Baked in Apples

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Photo: Brooke McLay

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Healthy Gluten Free Recipes Elana's Pantry Healthy, simple gluten-free recipes from Elana Amsterdam, author of The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook and Gluten-Free Cupcakes. Easy Recipes For Dinner Delicious Dessert Recipes With Pictures HOME COOKING: Easy Recipes for Fantastic Family Meals Or A Romantic Dinner For Two Mexican Shake & Bake Chicken Italian Fried Chicken & more Food & Drink - How To Information eHow.com Food & Drink: Don't let that next party be a flop. Be the envy of your friends thanks to eHow's entertaining secrets sure to make that next affair a success. Food is ... Recipes - How To Information eHow.com Recipes: Wondering whats for breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Need a side dish or appetizer to serve with your favorite recipe? Find healthy recipes, cooking tips and ... How to, Creative DIY, Crafts, Patterns & Tips - DIY Plywood Inspire Board Easy DIY painted plywood boards with tiny clo... Vanilla Ice Cream - 3 DIY If you have never tried homemade vanilla ice ... Magazines (and Websites) About Homesteading and Self-Sufficiency When I was a boy, my father used to buy Mother Earth News from the grocery store. The magazine was filled with stories about self-sufficient countr...Read more. Target.com : Furniture, Baby, Electronics, Toys Expect more pay less with Target. Spend $50, get free shipping on over 500K items. Choose from a wide selection of furniture, baby, electronics, toys, shoes, c Condo Blues: 4 Homemade Sugar Scrubs that Go from Your Pantry to ... As much as I am all over power tools and DIY projects I really am a girly girl at heart. I like pamper myself now and again and using a sugar body scrub is an ... Salad Recipes Delicious Dessert Recipes With Pictures A Must-Try Taco Salad Recipe for You. Those who have tried taco salad will agree on how nutritious and delicious this salad is. It is colorful, crunchy and has a zing. How To Make Your Own 6 Different Vegetable Flours DIY For Cooking ... Emergency Preparedness, Homesteading, Wild Food Foraging, Medical Skills, Self-sufficiency, Self-Reliance, Recycling, Canning, Gardening & More