The holidays are here, and what better way to share a little joy than with homemade gifts straight from the heart? In this blog, I’m sharing the magic of DIY kitchen gifts—simple, thoughtful creations that anyone can enjoy. Today, I’ll give you recipes on how to put together three favorites: homemade soup mixes, spice blends, and desserts in jars. These recipes are from the Meals in Jar and Master mix recipe collection where you will find a whole section on goodies, just like these! If you dont have that and would like to, you can find the link HERE. Whether you're looking to surprise friends and family with something special or add a personal touch to your holiday gifts, these homemade treats will warm both the belly and the heart.
Homemade Soup Mixes:
There’s just something about a hot bowl of soup that brings comfort, especially on those cold winter days. Putting together homemade soup mixes is a great way to share that comfort with loved ones. Layer up dried beans, lentils, pasta, rice, and a good mix of dried herbs and spices in a jar. For a comforting and warming soup... Just add water! It’s simple but beautiful—and practical too! Make sure to add a recipe card with instructions on how to cook it up, and maybe even include a little note wishing them cozy, warm days with every bite.
Warm the belly with a soup favorite!
Chicken Noodle Soup Mix in a Jar
Ingredients:
· 1/2 cup freeze dried chicken pieces
· 1/2 cup egg noodles
· 1/4 cup Freeze Dried carrots
· 1/4 cup Freeze Dried celery
· 1/4 cup Freeze Dried onions
· 2 tablespoons dried parsley
· 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
· 1 tablespoon dried thyme
· 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
· 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
· Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the pint mason jar, layer all ingredients
2. Seal the jar tightly.
3. Attach a label with cooking instructions: "To make chicken noodle soup, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the contents of this jar and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the noodles and vegetables are tender. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving."
Spice Blends:
Who doesn’t love adding a punch of flavor to their meals? Homemade spice blends make the perfect gift for the kitchen enthusiast or anyone looking to elevate their cooking. Play around with different herbs, spices, and seasonings—try a smoky BBQ rub, a zesty taco seasoning, or a fragrant curry mix. It’s a fun way to get creative, and these blends in decorative jars or spice shakers (with personalized labels, of course) are sure to inspire some delicious meals.
Here is one of my favorites to share! Who doesn't like Ranch dressing!
Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix
Ingredients:
5 tablespoons Dried Onion Flakes
7 teaspoons Parsley Flakes
4 teaspoons Salt
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine dried onion flakes, parsley flakes, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well.
2. Transfer the mixture into an airtight jar or container for storage.
To Make Ranch Dressing:
1. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the ranch mix with 1 cup of mayonnaise.
2. Add 1 cup of buttermilk or sour cream to the mixture.
3. Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. After chilling, give the dressing a final stir before serving.
6. Enjoy your homemade ranch dressing with salads, vegetables, or as a dip!
Desserts in Jars:
For those with a sweet tooth, there’s nothing better than a jar full of dessert-ready ingredients. You can layer all the dry ingredients for cookies, brownies, or cakes in a jar—just toss in some chocolate chips, sprinkles, or dried fruit to make it festive and fun. Include the instructions on how to bake or assemble the treats, and don’t forget to tie on a cute ribbon or attach a mini whisk or wooden spoon. It’s a charming way to gift a little sweetness for the holidays.
Here is a great recipe to make and give!
Chocolate Mint Brownie
Layer in Large Mouth Quart Jar
Ingredients:
· 1 cup sugar
· 1/4 cup butter powder
· 1/4 cup egg powder
· 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
· 1/2 cup cocoa powder
· 1 teaspoon vanilla powder
· 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· Peppermint chocolate chips or chips of choice (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
Empty the contents of the jar into a mixing bowl. Add 6 tablespoons of water to the bowl and mix until a thick batter forms.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares and serving
Gift-Giving Tips:
Personalize it: Tailor each gift to the recipient—whether that means considering their favorite flavors or any dietary needs.
Make it pretty: Have fun with your packaging! Use decorative jars, ribbons, and labels to give each gift that extra-special touch.
Don’t forget the recipe: Be sure to include clear instructions so your recipients can enjoy the homemade goodness you’ve prepared for them.
This holiday season, let your creativity shine with homemade gifts that truly show you care. Whether it's the comfort of a soup mix, the burst of flavor from a spice blend, or the sweetness of a dessert in a jar, these gifts are as fun to make as they are to give. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and spread a little homemade joy this year. Happy gifting!
For more information on creating your own long-term and working pantry, check out my other blogs or sign up for my newsletter, which focuses on meal-in-a-jar recipes, tips, and Thrive Life food updates. To order freeze-dried ingredients, visit my direct link at goshen.thrivelife.com. I would love to have you join me!
*The above recipes can be found in the Meals in Jars and Master Mix Recipe Pdf Collection. It can be found HERE for purchase OR you can receive it FREE if you sign up for the monthly delivery at thrive life and you start gathering your ingredients HERE. The above recipes can be found on these pages in the collection. *Chicken Noodle soup Pg. 32-B, Ranch Dressing Pg. 5-E, Mint Chocolate Brownies Pg. 15-G
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