The opportunity to treat friends and family to thoughtful gifts arises for many of us throughout the year, between birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, housewarmings, promotions and other special events (including Mother's Day!). That doesn’t mean you have to strain your budget or spend your weekends in shopping malls, however—especially when it’s so easy to make fun, unique, tasty gifts at home! DIY mason jar gifts are not only economical and eco-friendly, they're also a great way to treat loved ones to something special that you actually took the time to create for them.
One of the easiest DIY options is a “gift-in-a-jar,” such as a baking mix. These mixes tend to be popular because they make it easy to whip up treats in a snap, which can be very helpful for busy families. Unfortunately, commercial brands are typically loaded with refined flour, sugar and salt, plus a host of dubious additives. So, as you can imagine, wellness-minded folks are sure to appreciate a mix that’s both delicious and good for them too!
You’ll love how easy it is to make these kinds of mixes. With Mason jars, twine or raffia, and a handful of healthy ingredients, you’re well on your way. Because it’s so versatile, a good all-purpose baking blend is a great place to start—think of it as a healthy vegan baking mix. And, like the original product, this wholesome, gluten-free version can be used to make everything from biscuits, to pizza dough, to pancakes, muffins, scones, and more. Given the numerous baking mix recipes online, creative possibilities abound for the lucky recipient of your gift.
DIY All-Purpose Baking Mix
4 cups gluten-free flour
6 Tbsp. aluminum-free baking powder
2 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 tsp. pink Himalayan salt
To make it, simply blend the ingredients and package the mix in a mason jar tied with raffia and a gift card saying something like: “Enjoy your healthy, gluten-free, vegan Bisquick, which can be used in any recipe calling for traditional Bisquick, from pancakes to muffins to biscuits and more. Bon appétit!
As for other gift-in-a-jar ideas, vegan cocoa is a delight year-round, and this mix is as easy to craft as it is delicious. For extra wow-factor, you might package it with a cute mug, organic peppermint extract, and some vegan marshmallows. Or, for a fun variation, add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder and call it “Mocha Mix.” Another deliciously decadent option—which is also easy to put together—is this Chocolate-Chip Caramel Bar Mix.
Additional fun jar gifts include ready-to-eat snack mixes, no baking required! You might, for example, assemble this innovative Coconut-Curry Snack Mix for a deserving “foodie” in your life, or try this savory, flavor-packed Walnut-Herb snack mix, which is also rich in antioxidants.
Healthy trail mixes are also well received. They’re simple to make with a variety of raw, organic nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, and make a nice presentation too. Here’s one that’s also a nutritional rock star: mix equal parts raw nuts and seeds, then add some Goji berries, and raw cacao nibs. Voilà, you’ve created “Superfood Trail Mix.”
And, for those with nut allergies who miss out on most traditional trail mixes, this easy, seed-based version makes a perfect gift. These creative munchies beat popcorn any day, no?
Assembling your own foodie gifts-in-a-jar is fun, easy and cost-effective, and it also enables you to express your creativity with heart-felt offerings that are healthy to boot. Now that’s true generosity of spirit!
