Are you tired of giving the same old gifts to your loved ones? Do you want to give something that’s not only unique but also delicious and practical? Look no further! Mason jars have become incredibly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. They’re versatile, easy to use, and make for a thoughtful gift. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering mason jar recipes that are perfect for gifting or using yourself.
From sweet treats like layered cookie mix and peanut butter cup cookies, to savory delights like spicy herb and garlic bread and sun-dried tomato pasta, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to customize and adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these mason jar recipes are sure to inspire you.
Layered Cookie Mix in a Jar
Layered Cookie Mix in a Jar: A Quick and Easy Gift or Treat!
Give the gift of warm, gooey cookies with this layered cookie mix in a jar recipe. Perfect for neighbors, coworkers, or friends, it’s an easy and thoughtful treat that can be customized to fit any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
2. Layer the mixture in a 1-quart jar or Mason jar: start with 1/3 of the mixture, followed by 1/4 cup butter, then another 1/3 of the mixture, and finally 1/4 cup chocolate chips (and walnuts if using).
3. Close the jar and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
4. To bake, preheat oven to 350°F. Spoon out 1-2 jars’ worth of the mix into a bowl and add an egg and milk as needed. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
Cozy up with a warm mug of homemade hot chocolate made from scratch! This rich and creamy mix is perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk powder
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
2. Add the whole milk powder and salt, whisking until smooth.
3. If desired, add the ground cinnamon and whisk to combine.
4. Store the mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
To make hot chocolate:
1. Combine 2 tablespoons of the mix with 8 ounces hot water (or milk or a non-dairy alternative).
2. Whisk until smooth, then serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just whisk and go!
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Jars
Start your day off right with these easy-to-prepare Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Jars, packed with the flavors of fall. With a simple blend of rolled oats, apples, and cinnamon, you’ll have a delicious breakfast or snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup diced apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk (or to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together oats, apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Spoon the oat mixture into a jar or container with a lid.
3. Add the milk to the jar, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
4. Stir until the oats are well coated with the milk.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Chocolate Chip Pancake Mix
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent pancake mix recipe, packed with dark chocolate chips for an intense cocoa flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and stir until combined.
3. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
DIY Spiced Chai Tea Blend
Elevate your tea game by creating a customizable spiced chai blend using common spices and black tea leaves. This DIY recipe lets you control the level of sweetness, spice, and flavor to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the black tea leaves, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Store the blend in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
3. To brew, use 1 teaspoon of the blend per 8 oz cup of boiling water. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain if desired.
4. Add honey to taste, if preferred.
Cooking Time: None
Peppermint Bark Brownie Mix
Get ready to delight your senses with this refreshing twist on classic brownies! This Peppermint Bark Brownie Mix combines the richness of chocolate with the invigorating zest of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 box of fudgy brownie mix
– 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies (crushed Oreo cookies or peppermint bark work well too)
– 1/4 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
2. While the brownies are baking, melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and crushed peppermint candies until well combined.
4. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the peppermint bark mixture over the warm brownies.
5. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rainbow Pasta Salad Kit
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad kit! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with color and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 Rainbow Pasta Salad Kit (includes pasta, vegetables, and dressing)
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or other favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine the cooked pasta with the kit’s vegetable mix.
4. Pour in the included dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Add any desired additional toppings (such as cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices) and toss again.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking pasta only)
Lemon Blueberry Scone Mix
Brighten up your morning with these refreshing lemon blueberry scones! This easy-to-make mix combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon zest, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Lemon Blueberry Scone Mix (2 cups)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mix, heavy cream, egg, and melted butter until a dough forms.
3. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
4. Pat into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Herb and Garlic Bread Mix
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful mix of savory herbs and garlic! This recipe is perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup dry active yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Add chopped parsley, garlic, thyme, and pepper to the dry ingredients; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water (about 1 cup) to form a sticky dough.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramel Apple Cider Mix
This sweet and tangy blend of apple cider and caramel is perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall or winter day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting drink that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider and water.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and add the caramel syrup. Stir until well combined.
5. If desired, add a cinnamon stick for garnish and flavor.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Mix
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy cookies infused with the rich flavor of peanut butter cups!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter cup chunks (such as Reese’s)
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the peanut butter cup chunks.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Pumpkin Spice Granola Jars
These bite-sized granola jars are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. With the warmth of pumpkin spice and the crunch of homemade granola, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, etc.)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and pumpkin seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Allow the granola to cool completely before transferring it into mason jars. Top with dried cranberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Take your snack game to the next level with this decadent homemade spread made with dark chocolate, hazelnuts, and creamy butter. Perfect for topping toast, crackers, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) roasted hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a food processor or blender, grind the hazelnuts until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the softened butter, melted chocolate, and honey to the processor. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the ground hazelnuts and salt until well combined.
5. Transfer the spread to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None
Layered Trail Mix Snack Jars
A quick and easy snack solution perfect for on-the-go, these layered trail mix jars are a healthy and delicious treat that can be customized to your favorite flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, and cherries)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or M&M’s
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal
– 6 small glass jars with lids
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in the jars by starting with the oats at the bottom, followed by the nuts, dried fruit, and finally the chocolate chips.
2. Top each jar off with a layer of puffed rice cereal.
3. Repeat this process for each jar, finishing with a layer of puffed rice cereal on top.
4. Close the lids tightly to prevent leakage.
Cooking Time: None! These snack jars are ready in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Bean Sugar Scrub
Get ready to pamper yourself with this soothing sugar scrub infused with the warmth of vanilla beans. This natural exfoliator will leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and subtly scented.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
– 2 whole vanilla beans
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the sugar and coconut oil until well mixed.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
3. Split the vanilla beans lengthwise and add them to the mixture.
4. Stir until the vanilla beans are evenly distributed throughout the scrub.
5. Transfer the scrub to an airtight container.
6. To use, massage a generous amount onto skin in circular motions, focusing on rough areas like elbows and heels.
7. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and store!)
Raspberry Jam with Chia Seeds
Elevate your jam-making game with the addition of chia seeds, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. This recipe yields a sweet and tangy jam perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the raspberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and reduced slightly.
3. Stir in the chia seeds and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb any excess liquid.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a glass jar or airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Fiesta Rice Mix
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful Mexican Fiesta Rice Mix! This easy-to-make recipe combines the classic trio of rice, beans, and cheese with a hint of south-of-the-border flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) Mexican-style seasoning blend
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the black beans, seasoning blend, and salt. Stir until combined.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gingerbread Spice Mix
Elevate your baked goods with this aromatic gingerbread spice mix, perfect for adding a touch of warmth and comfort to your favorite recipes. With just 7 ingredients, you’ll be whipping up delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom.
2. Mix until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Store the spice mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None! This is a dry spice blend, so no cooking time is required. Simply use as needed in your favorite recipes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Mix
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs with pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Pecan Granola Jars
Transform your morning routine with these sweet and crunchy granola jars, packed with the perfect blend of maple syrup, pecans, and rolled oats. Perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (including pecans)
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
6. Allow to cool completely before transferring to jars or containers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these delicious mason jar recipes perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself! From sweet treats like layered cookie mix, hot chocolate, and caramel apple cider to savory options like herb and garlic bread and Mexican fiesta rice, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find unique blends like DIY spiced chai tea and vanilla bean sugar scrub, as well as healthy snacks like pumpkin spice granola and trail mix. Whether you’re a foodie or a gift-giver, these 20 mason jar recipes are sure to delight.
