Christmas: Gift Ideas From the Kitchen
Source of Recipe
Various Contributors
Recipe Introduction
Gift Jars - soap, cookies and various other baked goods, bath salts, etc. Many more recipes listed under my catgory entitled: GIFT JARS
List of Ingredients
MUG CAKES
Use any flavor cake mix and complimentary flavor of pudding mix. For the glaze, use a complimentary flavor of powdered mix, such as lemonade for lemon, cocoa for chocolate, etc. Buy attractive coffee mugs which hold 1 1/2 cups water.
1 (18.5 oz.) box yellow cake mix
1 (3.4 oz.) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 2/3 C. confectioners' sugar
1/4 C. powdered lemonade mix
8 coffee mugs
Place dry cake mix and dry pudding mix into a large bowl and blend well with a whisk. This will be about 4 to 4 1/2 cups of dry mix and will make 8 mug cake mixes. Divide mixture into 8 small plastic bags (about 1/2 cup each). Place mixture into a corner of each bag and tie it there with a twist tie.
Make glaze mix: In a medium bowl, combine confectioners' sugar with powdered flavoring mix. Divide into 8 small plastic bags and close bag with a twist tie. Attach each glaze mix to the cake mix bags with a twist tie. Place one of each bag into each cup.
Attach the following instructions to each cup:
Generously spray inside of mug with cooking spray. Empty contents of cake mix packet into cup. Add 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon water to dry mix. Mix 15 seconds, carefully mixing in all dry mix. Microwave on full power for 2 minutes.
While cake is cooking, place ingredients from Glaze mix into a very small container and add 1 1/2 teaspoons water. Mix well. When cake is done, pour glaze over cake in cup. Enjoy while warm.
from MjandZeus
Cake in a Cup
Perfect for single friends or give a set to a couple!
1 box cake mix, any flavor
1 small instant pudding mix (please do not use sugar free), any flavor
icing is per mug
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1-1/2 teaspoon flavoring: (use powdered not liquid) coffee, cocoa, lemonade, raspberry tea
large microwaveable coffee cup- needs to hold 1-1/2 cup of water
Combine cake mix and pudding.
Measure 1/2 cup of mix into a bag.
Seal and label 'Cake Mix'.
Combine powdered sugar and flavoring.
Place this into a bag and label this 'Glaze'.
Place cake mix bag and glaze into coffee cup.
Attach note:
Remove bags from cup. Spray inside of cup with cooking spray. Empty cake mix into cup. Add 1 egg white, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon water and combine. Microwave on HIGH for 2 minutes. Empty glaze into a small bowl and mix with a teaspoon of water. Pour glaze over baked cake.
Combination Ideas
Devils food cake, chocolate pudding, coffee glaze
Lemon cake, lemon pudding, add poppy seeds, orange glaze
Yellow cake, chocolate pudding, coffee glaze
White cake, white chocolate pudding, hazelnut glaze
Pineapple cake, coconut pudding, vanilla glaze
Butterscotch cake, butterscotch pudding, add some mini chocolate chops, chocolate glaze
DRINK MIXES
CHOCOLATE CAPPUCCINO COFFEE MIX
1 c. powdered creamer
1 c. powdered chocolate milk mix
2/3 c. instant coffee
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
Mix all ingredients together. Store in airtight container.
Give gift with instructions: Use 1 heaping tablespoon per cup of boiling water.
Instant Cappuccino Mix
1 cup powdered chocolate milk mix
3/4 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1/2 cup instant coffee granules
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
In a med. bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. Store in an airtight container. Give as a gift with serving instructions.
To serve: Place 1 heaping tablespoonful of mix in a cup or mug and add 1 cup of boiling water. Stir.
Makes about 2 1/4 cups of mix.
ORANGE CAPPUCCINO COFFEE MIX
1/2 c. instant coffee granules
1/2 tsp. grated dried orange peel (can be found in spices)
1 c. nondairy powdered coffee creamer
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Finely grind coffee and orange peel in a blender or food processor. Add remaining ingredients and process until well blended. Store in an airtight container.
Makes about 1 2/3 cups coffee mix.
Give with serving instructions.
To serve: stir about 2 heaping teaspoons coffee mix into 6 oz. hot water.
SNOWMAN SOUP
1 package hot chocolate mix
3 Hershey Kisses
15 or so marshmallows
1 candy cane
Place all the above in a mug, attach the following poem.
THE SNOWMAN SOUP POEM:
Was told you've been real good this year.
Always glad to hear it.
With freezing weather drawing near,
You'll need to warm the spirit!!
So here's a little Snowman Soup,
Complete with stirring stick.
Add hot water, sip it slow,
It's sure to do the trick!
Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix
1/3 cup light brown sugar
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. powered vanilla
1/4 cup cocoa
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
Combine and blend ingredients in a small bowl. Store in an airtight
container.
Attatch this to jar
Mexican Hot Chocolate
3 cups water
Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix (to taste)
Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Heat the water to boiling and add the Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix. Stir
with a whisk until the mixture is smooth. Garnish
with cinnamon sticks. For a frothier hot chocolate, mix in a blender.
Mint Cocoa
2 cups chocolate malt
1 cup butter mints, crushed
3 cups nonfat powdered milk
1 1/2 cup instant cocoa
Add 1/4 cup mix to 1 cup water.
Raspberry Hot Cocoa Mix
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup non-dairy creamer powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 packets unsweetened raspberry Kool-Aid
5 1/2 cups instant dry milk powder
Sift together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, non-dairy creamer, salt and Kool-Aid into a large bowl. Stir in the milk powder. Store tightly sealed.
Yield: about 9 cups.
To serve, put 3 Tablespoons into a cup and add hot water. Stir.
from scam
comparable
I found these and am going to try them this year.
Hot Cocoa Mix
For added fun mix in mini-marshmallows.
4 cups instant nonfat powdered dry milk
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender.
Store each in tightly covered container.
Attach note:
Hot Cocoa
To serve combine 3 (or more) tablespoons of mix with 1 cup boiling water; stir to blend.
Mocha Mix
fills 4 small mason jars
1-1/2 cups instant nonfat powdered dry milk
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup instant coffee
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 dash salt
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon almond extract, experiment with different flavors--like hazel cream
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender.
Store each in tightly covered container.
Attach note:
Mocha Coffee
To serve combine 3 tablespoons of mix with 1 cup boiling water; stir to blend.
COOKIES AND BROWNIES
Bogus Cookies
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1-1/4 cups rolled oats, pulverized to a powder
10 ounce chocolate bar, grated
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped nuts
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Bogus Cookies
Empty cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 eggs and a 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix thoroughly. Add 1 cup chocolate chips. Shape into walnut sized balls and place onto a greased cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on cookie sheet and then place cookies on baking racks to finish cooling. Makes about 3 dozen.
Butterscotch Brownie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
2-1/4 cups granulated sugar
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup butterscotch chips
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in sugar and the powdered milk.
Follow with the cocoa powder.
Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and layer them last.
Attach note:
Butterscotch Brownies
Empty mix into large bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup of softened butter or margarine and 4 slightly beaten eggs. Mix until completely blended. Spread batter into a lightly greased or sprayed 9' x 13' pan. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until done. Cool in pan. Cut into 2' squares. Makes 2 dozen
Cappuccino Brownie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
2-1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup powdered milk
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in sugar and the powdered milk.
Follow with the cocoa powder.
Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and layer them last.
Attach note:
Cappuccino Brownies
Empty mix into large bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup of softened butter or margarine and 4 slightly beaten eggs. Mix until completely blended. Spread batter into a lightly greased or sprayed 9' x 13' pan. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until done. Cool in pan. Cut into 2' squares. Makes 2 dozen
Chocolate Almond Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1 cup good quality chocolate bar cut into small bits
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in brown sugar.
Follow with the granulated sugar.
Next the cocoa powder and cinnamon.
Follow with the almonds
Then the chocolate chunks.
Finally, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking powder, and layer them last.
Attach note:
Chocolate Almond Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended. The dough will be sticky. you will need to finish mixing with your hands. Shape into walnut size balls and place 2' apart on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for 11 to 13 minutes . Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to racks to finish cooling. Makes 3 dozen cookies.
Chocolate Covered Raisin Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 cup chocolate covered raisins
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Chocolate Covered Raisin Cookie Mix
Empty cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, and a 1 teaspoon vanilla. Blend. Shape dough into walnut sized balls. Place 2'' apart on a parchment lined cookie sheet (do not use wax paper). Bake at 375°F for 13 to 15 minutes until tops are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet then remove cookies to racks cool completely. Makes: 2-1/2 dozen cookies.
Chunky Chocolate Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup good quality chocolate bar cut into small bits
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in brown sugar.
Follow with the granulated sugar.
Next the cocoa powder.
Then the chocolate chunks.
Finally, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking powder, and layer them last.
Attach note:
Chunky Chocolate Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 slightly beaten eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended. The dough will be sticky. You will need to finish mixing with your hands. Shape into walnut size balls and place 2' apart on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for 11 to 13 minutes . Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to racks to finish cooling. Makes 3 dozen cookies.
Chunky Chocolate & Nut Cookie
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
This mix is courtesy of Karen Loughran from Canada.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup jumbo chocolate chips
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in brown sugar.
Follow with the granulated sugar.
Next the cocoa powder.
Then the chocolate chunks.
Finally, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking powder, and layer them last.
It will be a tight fit.
Attach note:
Chunky Chocolate & Nut Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 slightly beaten eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended. The dough will be sticky. You will need to finish mixing with your hands. Shape into walnut size balls and place 2' apart on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for 11 to 13 minutes . Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to racks to finish cooling. Makes 3 dozen cookies.
Dreamsicle Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1/2 cup powdered orange flavored drink mix
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1-1/2 cups vanilla chips
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Dreamsicle Cookies
Empty contents into a bowl. Add 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 or 2 eggs slightly beaten and teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until completely blended. Roll into large walnut-sized balls and place 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes or until tops are very lightly browned. Cool for 5 minutes on the sheet then remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely. Makes about 2 -1/2 dozen.
Double-Fudge Brownie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup chocolate chips
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in sugar.
Follow with the cocoa powder.
Then the flour.
Next the chocolate chips and finally the pecans.
Attach note:
Double-Fudge Brownies
Cream 1 cup softened butter or margarine. Add 4 eggs, mix well. Add contents of jar. Mix until completely blended. Spread batter into a lightly greased or sprayed 9' x 12' pan. Bake at 325°F for 40-50 minutes or until done. Cool in pan. Cut into 2' squares. Makes 2 dozen
Gingerbread Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions. Give this gift with store-bought decorators icing.
3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 cup packed brown sugar
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Put in 1/2 of the flour along with the baking powder and baking soda.
Add the spices and the remaining flour.
Add the brown sugar last.
Attach note:
Gingerbread Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Mix in 1/2 cup softened butter, 3/4 cup molasses and 1 or 2 eggs. Mix until completely blended. Cover and refrigerate 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Cut into shapes. Place cookies on lightly greased cookie sheet about 2' apart. Bake 10 to 15 minutes. Decorate as with store-bought icing.
Holiday Cranberry & Pistachio Biscotti
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
This mix is courtesy of Karen Loughran from Canada.
3/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries
3/4 cup shelled green pistachios
2 cups all purpose unbleached flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoon baking powder
2/3 cup sugar*
Use a clean 1 quart jar.
Layer ingredients in order.
Tap gently on the counter top to settle each layer before adding the next.
Add additional dried fruits or pistachios to fill any gaps.
Attach note:
Holiday Cranberry & Pistachio Biscotti
Beat 1/3 cup butter on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add 2 eggs and beat on medium until well combined. Using a wooden spoon, stir in contents of jar just until combined. Divide into 2 loaves on cookie sheet, chilling if necessary to make dough easier to handle. Each loaf should be about 9 inches long and 2 inches wide. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 min or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on sheet for 1 hour. Cut each loaf diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices using a serrated (bread) knife. Place slices on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 325°F for 8 minutes, then turn over and bake for 8-10 minutes more or until dry and crisp. Transfer to wire rack to cool. Makes 32 cookies.
Scotchies Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup quick or old fashioned oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Scotchies
Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cups softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, and a 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Blend. Shape dough into walnut sized balls. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheets about 2'' inches apart (do not use wax paper). Bake at 350°F for 11 to 13 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to baking racks to cool completely. Makes 3 dozen cookies.
M & M Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
1-1/4 cups M & M's candies
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Pour in sugar.
Follow with the M & M's.
Combine the flour, baking powder, and baking powder, and layer them last.
Attach note:
M & M Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended. (You will need to finish mixing with your hands.) Shape into balls the size of walnuts and place on a parchment lined cookie sheet 2' apart. Bake at 375°F, 12 to 14 minutes until edges are slightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet for about 5 minutes then remove to wire racks to finish cooling. Makes 2-1/2 dozen cookies.
Molasses Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/8 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon ginger
Combine all the ingredient and place in a 1 quart jar a.
Attach note:
Molasses Cookies
Preheat oven to 375°F. Beat 3/4 cup softened butter, 1 or 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup molasses. Add the mix and beat until smooth. Shape dough into 1 inch balls.Roll in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 9 to 11 minutes. Cool on wire racks. Makes about 4 dozen
Peanut Butter Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1-1/2 cups firmly packed powdered sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1-1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Peanut Butter Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1 or 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Blend thoroughly. Shape dough into walnut sized balls. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheets about 2'' inches apart (do not use wax paper). Press ball down with a fork-make the crisscross pattern. Bake at 350°F for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to baking racks to cool completely. Makes 3 dozen cookies.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Cookies
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
This mix is courtesy of Karen Loughran from Canada.
1-3/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup peanut butter chips*
1/2 cup chocolate chips*
*or you can use 8 peanut butter cups, cut into pieces
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Mix together the flour, baking powder and baking soda together.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Peanut butter and Chocolate Cookies
Sift out the chips and set aside. Empty remaining cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly blend mix. Add 1/2 cup
room temperature butter or margarine. Add 1 slightly beaten egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended. Mix in chips or peanut butter cups. Shape into walnut sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375°F for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to racks to finish cooling. Makes 2-1/2 dozen cookies.
Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 large Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Remove peanut butter cup pieces from the jar. Empty remaining cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Blend thoroughly. Stir in the peanut butter cups. Shape dough into walnut sized balls. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheets about 2'' inches apart (do not use wax paper).Bake at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to baking racks to cool completely. Makes 2-1/2 dozen cookies.
Red & Green Holiday Cookies
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
This mix is courtesy of Karen Loughran from Canada.
3 cups cake flour
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1-1/3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Place the following in a small gift bag and attach to the top rim of jar with a nice Christmas ribbon:
20 red candy melts
20 green candy melts
Attach note:
Red & Green Holiday Cookies
Place contents of jar into a large bowl, breaking up any lumps. Combine 3/4 cup melted, cooled butter, 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon vanilla; stir into flour mixture until just combined. Drop dough by scant tablespoons full, 2' apart, onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 325-350°F for 11-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool on rack one minute. Remove from pan; cool completely on rack. Place each color of candy melts into a separate 1 quart plastic storage bag; microwave on medium until melted, about 50 seconds. Snip corner of each bag; drizzle over cookies. Makes approximately 28 cookies.
Scottish Shortbread Mix
Place ingredients in a glass jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
Combine all the ingredients.
Store in an airtight container.
Attach note:
Scottish Shortbread
Preheat oven to 300°F. Cut 1 cup softened butter into mix. Press mixture firmly into an 8' pie plate. Bake 1 hour, shortbread should be pale not browned. Cut into wedges while still warm.
Trail Mix Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup wheat germ
1/3 cup quick oats
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup mixed chopped nuts
1/3 cup firmly packed flaked coconut
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in order.
Attach note:
Trail Mix Cookies
Empty cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine, 1 or 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Blend thoroughly. Shape dough into walnut sized balls. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheets about 2'' inches apart. Bake at 350°F for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to baking racks to cool completely. Makes 2-1/2 dozen cookies.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookie Mix
Layer dry ingredients in a one quart jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
3 (1.4 ounces) coarsely chopped white chocolate candy bars
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Use a clean 1 quart jar and press each layer down firmly.
Layer ingredients in the order given.
Attach note:
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Preheat oven to 375°F. Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 or 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until completely blended and smooth. Shape into walnut sized balls and place on greased cookie sheets about 2' apart. Bake 12 to 15 minutes until tops are very lightly golden. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to racks to finish cooling.
SOUPS, RICES, RUBS, BREADS
Soups Etc.
Barley and Lentil Soup Mix
1/2 cup macaroni or other small macaroni ( can be put in a plastic sandwich bag to make it easier for the recipient to get out of jar )
1/2 cup dry split peas
1/3 cup beef bouillon
1/4 cup pearl barley
1/2 cup dry lentils
1/4 cup dried onion flakes
1/2 cup parsley flakes
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
Place macaroni in a plastic bag set aside.
Layer the remaining ingredients in order.
Place the bag of macaroni on the top,
Attach note:
Barley and Lentil Soup
Separate the macaroni from the soup mix and set aside. Brown 1 pound ground beef in a large stockpot; drain off fat. Add 3 quarts of water, 1, 28 ounce can diced tomatoes with liquid, and soup mix. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 45 minutes. Add macaroni, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until ingredients are tender.
Curried Rice Mix
3 cups uncooked long grain rice
5 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules
4 tablespoons dried onion flakes
1 cup raisins
1-1/2 teaspoons curry powder
1-1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 tabpesoon ground cinnamon
Combine all ingredients.
Pour into a jar with a tight fitting lid.
Attach note:
Curried Rice
Bring 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon butter and 1 cup of rice mix to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes. Stir and serve.
Fruited Rice Mix
3 cups uncooked long grain rice
3 tablespoon dried onion flakes
4 tablespoons chicken bouillon
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup crushed dried apples
1/3 cup golden raisins
1/3 cup toasted slivered almonds
Combine all ingredients, mixing well. Store in airtight container. Yields about 5 cups of rice mix.
Combine all ingredients.
Pour into a jar with a tight fitting lid.
Attach note:
Fruited Rice
Bring 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon butter and 1 cup of rice mix to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes. Stir and serve.
Minestrone Soup Mix
make 4 gift packages
For your vegetarian friends, omit the beef boullion
flavorings
1/2 cup dried onion flakes
1/2 cup dried green bell pepper flakes
1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
2 tablespoons dried basil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried marjaram
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup beef bouillon
in addition
1 pound dried white beans
1 pound dried kidney beans
4 cups uncooked small shells or elbow macaroni
Combine the flavorings.
Divide into 4 parts and place in small zip lock bags.
Combine the beans.
In 4 jars divide and layer the pasta.
Stick in the flavorings package.
Divide and layer the beans.
Seal jar.
Attach note:
Minestrone Soup
In addition to contents, you will need
2-1/2 quarts, water
1 carrot, zucchini, or yellow squash, sliced
4 oz. cooked ham, chopped
14-1/2 oz. can stewed tomatoes, undrained
Soak beans overnight. Drain. Add 2-1/2 quarts cold water, flavoring mix, vegetables, and ham. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally 2 hours. Add tomatoes & pasta, return to a boil; reduce to medium, and cook 20 minutes or until pasta is tender. makes 8 servings.
Mulit-Bean Soup Mix
Use whatever beans are available at your local market.
flavorings
1/2 cup dried onion flakes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
4 teaspoons chili powder
4 teaspoons cumin seed
2 teaspoons salt
4 bay leaves*
in addition
1 pound dried black beans
1 pound dried red beans
1 pound dried kidney beans
1 pound dried navy beans
1 pound dried great northern beans
1 pound dried lima beans
1 pound dried pinto beans
1 pound dried green split peas
1 pound dried yellow split peas
1 pound dried black-eyed peas
1 pound dried green lentils
1 pound dried brown lentils
Combine the flavorings.
Divide into 4 parts and place in small zip lock bags.
* One bay leaf per packet.
In 4 jars divide and layer the beans.
Stick in the flavorings package.
Seal jar.
Attach note:
Multi-Bean Soup
Cover beans with cold water and soak overnight. Drain beans and place in a stockpot along with 1 smoked hammock, 2 (14.5 oz) cans stewed tomatoes,
ham hock, tomatoes, onion, garlic, bay leaf and 6 cups of water, and remaining ingredients. 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, and 6 cups cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, cover and simmer 1 hour or until beans are tender. Remove bay leaf.
Noodle Soup Mix
1 cup uncooked egg noodles
1-1/2 tablespoons chicken bouillon
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoons thyme
1/8 teaspoon celery seeds
1/8 teaspoons garlic powder
1 bay leaf
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Store in an airtight container.
Attach note:
Noodle Soup
Combine mix and 4 cups water in a large stockpot. Add 2 diced carrots, 2 stalkes diced celery, and 1/3 cup minced onion. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. Stir in 3 cups cooked, shredded poultry. Heat through.
Seasoned Rice Mix
3 cups uncooked long grain rice
5 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules
1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Combine all ingredients.
Pour into a jar with a tight fitting lid.
Attach note:
Tasty Rice
Bring 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon butter and 1 cup of rice mix to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes. Stir and serve.
Anise-flavored Cornbread Mix
Place ingredients in a glass jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
2 cups Bisquick baking mix
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
2-3 drops anise extract
Combine all the ingredients and place in clean glass jar.
Attach note:
Anise-flavored Cornbread
Place contents of jar into bowl. Add 2 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup sour cream and 1/2 cup melted butter. Pour into a greased 8-inch baking pan and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Spicy Muffin Mix
Place ingredients in a glass jar along with a gift tag with baking directions.
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
Combine all the ingredients and place in clean glass jar.
Attach note:
Ginger Spice Muffins
Place contents of jar into bowl. Add 1/2 cup melted butter or margarine. 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 cup milk. Stir to just blend. Fill greased muffin tins 2/3 full and bake for 15 minutes at 400°F. Makes 1 dozen
Barbecue Chicken Dry Rub
Use a small 1 or 2 serving bottle.
1 cup paprika
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup garlic powder
1/4 cup dried, ground chipotles peppers
1/4 cup salt
4 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons black pepper
2 tablespoons red pepper
2 tablespoons celery salt
Mix thoroughly.
Pour into small clean jars and seal.
Attach note:
Barbecue Chicken Dry Rub
Rub some of the mix all over chicken. Grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with corn and baked potaotes.
Onion-Pepper Blend
Use a small 1 or 2 serving bottle.
1 cup paprika
1-2 cup onion powder
1/4 cup salt
pinch of red pepper
Mix thoroughly.
Pour into small clean jars and seal.
Attach note:
Onion-Pepper Blend
Sprinkle on potato wedges or meat.
Scandinavian Chicken Rub
Use a small 1 or 2 serving bottle.
1/2 cup ground cardamom
4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons ground cloves
2 tablespoons ground fennel seed
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons ground ginger
1 tablespoons ground red pepper
Attach note:
Scandinavian Chicken Rub
Rub some of the mix all over chicken. Grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with creamed leeks and rice.
Have a Blessed day
From:Lali
LIQUERS
Heres a few recipes for some homemade liquers:
LIMONCELLO
8 lemons
1 bottle(750ml)Vodka
2.5 Cups Water
2 cups granulated sugar
Scrub lemons in hot water, rinse well and dry. With vegetable peeler or zester peel off yellow rind, avoiding white pith.Place rind in 4 cup airtight jar; pour in vodka. Seal and let stand in cool, dark place for 5 days. In small saucepan, bring water and sugar to boil; boil gently for 15 mins. Let cool to room temperture. In large measure, stir together vodka mixture and sugar mixture; strain through coffee filter-or cheesecloth- into decorative bottles. Discard lemon rind strips. Seal bottles. (Make-Ahead:Store in cool, dark place for up to a year)MAKES 6 CUPS OR 1.5L
COFFEE LIQUEUR
1/4 Cup Dark roasted coffee beans
1 1/2 Cups Vodka
2 1/2 Cups Water
1 1/2 Cups Granulated sugar
1 tbsp Vanilla
In coffe grinder, coarsely grind coffee beans. Place in 4 Cup airtight jar and pour in vodka. Seal and let stand in cool, dark place for 5 days. In small saucepan, bring water and sugar to boil; boil gently for 15 mins. Let cool to room temperture. In large measure, stir together vodka mixture and sugar mixture and vanilla; strain through coffee filter-or cheesecloth- into decorative bottles
Discard coffe grounds. Seal bottles.(Make-Ahead:Store in cool, dark place for up to a year)MAKES 4 CUPS OR 1L
CREAMY ORANGE LIQUER
1 Cup granulated sugar
1 Cup water
1 1/2 Cups Vodka
1 can (300ml) sweetened condensed milk
1 Cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
2 tsp vanilla
In saucepan, bring water and sugar to boil; let cool. Whisk in vodka, condensed milk, orange juice concentrate and vanilla. POur into decorative bottles. Seal and refrigerate. (Make Ahead: refrigerate for up to 2 weeks) MAKES 5 CUPS OR 1.25L
IRISH CREAM LIQUEUR
1/2 tsp instant coffee granules
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup irish whiskey
1 cup whipping cream
1 can (300ml) sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cups chocolate syrup
In large bowl, dissolve coffee granules in vanilla: whisk in whiskey, cream, condensed milk and chocolate syrup. Pour into decorative bottles. Seal and refrigerate. (Make Ahead: Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks)MAKES 4 CUPS OR 1L
CRAN-RASPBERRY CORDIAL
2 cups each cranberries and raspberries(fresh or frozen)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 bottle (750ml) vodka
In food processor,coarsely chop cranberries with half the sugar; transfer to large airtight jar. Repeat with raspberries and remaining sugar; add to jar. Pour in vodka; seal and shake. Refrigerate for 2 weeks, shaking often. Strain through double thickness of dampened cheesecloth into large measure, squeezing and twisting to extract the juice. Pour into decorative bottles and seal.(Make Ahead: Store in cool, dark place for up to 1 year) MAKES 6 CUPS OR 1.5L
Enjoy and stay safe this holiday season.
from:love2cook
Orange Chocolate Cream
Recipe By :
Serving Size : 1 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories : Liqueurs And Drink Mixes Homemade
Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 cups brandy, scotch or whiskey
1 can sweetened condensed milk -- * see note
3 tablespoons chocolate syrup -- or more
1 1/2 teaspoons orange extract
1 cup cream or evaporated milk
3 eggs or egg substitute
Blend liquor, condensed milk and flavorings on low. Blend in cream, then eggs.
*Homemade sweetened condensed milk: Heat and stir until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved: 1 1/2 c. sugar, 2/3 c. evaporated milk, 4 Tb. butter. (1 can=1 1/4 c.)
suggestion:use brandy or use brandy/whiskey mix (called white christmas?)
CHOCOLATE SPOONS
How about the chocolate spoons too. I made these one year right before Thanksgiving and brought them into work for the women I worked with. They saved them for the holiday and served them with coffee. There are so many flavors, the one they liked the best was the white chocolate with ameretto flavoring. The thing is, you have to use the oil flavoring or powdered flavor you get at the cake/candy supply stores. All you do is get the nice sized plastic spoons, I usually go to Party City because they have 50 for 99c, and they have every color imaginable. And then dip them in the melted chocolate or coating. I lay them on foil to harden instead of putting them in the fridge, because I make so many and they are kinda hard to move once they are dipped. I put these on a nice small tray and colored saran wrap.
BATH SALTS
BATH TEAS: General Instructions
=======================================
Fill large tea bags with approximately 1/4 cup of your favorite herb mix. Seal open edge
of bag with a hot iron (medium setting). Allow bag to steep in hot bath water 3-5 minutes
before bathing.
'ENERGIZING' BATH TEA
=======================================
1/2 cup Lavender Flowers
1/2 cup Dried Peppermint
1/2 cup Dried Spearmint
1/2 cup Lemongrass
8 drops Lavender essential oil
10 drops Lemongrass essential oil
5 drops Peppermint essential oil
5 drops Spearmint essential oil
(optional) 1 Tbsp Goats Milk Powder in each tea bag
Fills about 8 bags
'SWEET DREAMS' BATH TEA
=======================================
1 cup Lavender Flowers
1/2 cup Hops
1/2 cup Mugwort
1/2 cup Mullein
8 drops Lavender essential oil
4 drops Patchouli essential oil
(optional) 1 Tbsp Goats Milk Powder in each tea bag
Fills about 10 bags
VICTORIAN BATH TEA
=======================================
1/2 cup Rose Petals & Buds
1/2 cup Lavender Flowers
1/2 cup Comfrey
8 drops Lavender essential oil
8 drops Rose Petals fragrance oil
4 drops Patchouli essential oil
(optional) 1 Tbsp Goats Milk Powder in each tea bag
Fills about 8 bags
from: nadine
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Posts: 40 | IP: Logged
love2bake
Member
Member # 12375
posted 08-28-2002 04:36 PM
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Oh, I forgot to add a couple of my ideas. Last year I made a basket for my brother in law, who's a big bailey's fan, with the following:
Homemade baileys
premium roasted coffee
homemade chocolate spoons
Coffee mug
I wrapped it up with pretty cellophane. He loved it!
The recipe I used for the Baileys is as follows:
Bailey's Irish Cream
1 pint whipping cream (I use half and half)
1-14 oz can Borden's Eagle Brand
3 eggs
1 cup blended whiskey
1 tsp vanilla...more or less, as desired
1/4 t almond
1/2 cup light rum
3/4 tsp coconut flavoring (If I don't have it, I skip it)
3 TBS chocolate syrup
Blend, refrigerate and enjoy
I added extra chocolate syrup to it.
My second idea is: homemade wreaths. You know those beautiful, but expensive christmas wreaths you see at the crafts stores around christmas time? Well last year I made one for all of the females in my family. I bought the evergreen wreath frames and bought a bunch of things to put on them:
pretty ribbon
christmas ornaments
plastic fruits
anything christmas related found in the craft stores
strings of pearls.
I tried to follow a color scheme for each woman based on their favorite color or house. I made purple/silver, rose/gold, white/gold, red/gold.
They all loved them!! I also had several of them tell me that friends who saw them asked where they had bought them! They couldn't believe I had made them. They are more pricey than most of the other suggestions but they can be a main gift for MIL, SIL, Sister, etc. They are still less expensive than buying them made. The key is to hit the christmas decorations sales.
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Nancy P
Member
Member # 9003
posted 08-28-2002 07:16 PM
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Wow. Thanks for sharing all those great recipes and ideas. They are giving me many great ideas for Christmas. I can't wait to start baking. Thanks again.
Nancy
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MrsDomino
Member
Member # 10447
posted 08-28-2002 07:54 PM
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Well what do you get a mother who has no hobbies (other than reading harlequin romance books), wears only dresses, sweaters and keds sneakers. UGH! I have a birthday coming up for her in 2 weeks...no less than that. But for Christmas I think I'm going to do a "Mail" basket....stamps, envelopes, good pen, some general greeting cards....
Can you think of anything else for the basket? Or how about just anything else since I have a birthday to get through too?
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D'sMom
Member
Member # 13880
posted 08-28-2002 08:27 PM
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Wow love2bake great post & ideas!Thanks!
Mrs Domino How about some fave sweet treats, goodies,more books,jams or jellies etc..Does she do crossword puzzles or jigsaw puzzles?Hope this helps,if I can think of anything else i'll let you know.
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Anna_Anais
Member
Member # 13207
posted 08-29-2002 07:15 AM
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MrsDomino---I did the mail baskets a couple of years ago for my mother and sister. In addition to what you mentioned, I added a self-inking stamp with their name and address (think I got that from Office Depot), a small clear plastic paperclip holder with different colored plastic coated paperclips, a highliter pen, a small calendar (free at Hallmark), a bottle of White-Out, a package of gift recipe cards, etc. I ran the ad pages from the newspaper through a paper shredder and used that as filler for the bottom of the basket. The baskets I bought at an attic sale and sprayed them with enamel paint. They were really cute and they loved them. I know you will find many cute items by just walking through an Eckerds or Wallmart. I bought some cheap stuff at my grocery store, because they put all the school supplies on sale after school starts because they don't carry those items year-round. Good Luck--I know it will be cute and was a lot of fun to do..
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love2bake
Member
Member # 12375
posted 08-29-2002 10:12 AM
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MrsDomino-
The mail basket sounds wonderful. Here's another idea for future birthdays. How about a pamper me basket? Fill it with scented lotion and body spray, shower gel, bubble bath, scented candles, manicure and pedicure tools including those packets that have a all you need for a do-it-yourself pedicure, nail polish, facial scrubs, etc. Everything a woman would need to pamper herself if you want a bigger gift or just focus on one area (i.e. pedicure, facials) for a smaller gift. Wrap it up with pretty cellophane and there you have it.
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love2bake
Member
Member # 12375
posted 08-29-2002 10:14 AM
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Oops! I almost forgot. I'm doing a pamper him basket for my husband. I'm taking him away for a romantic surprise weekend to celebrate our one year anniversary and I'm bringing the basket with. He's a sucker for a massage so I am filling it with scented candles, some of the products for men from bath and body, massage lotion, a massage roller, bubble bath and a bottle of champagne. I can't wait to surprise him with it.
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alidoremi
Junior Member
Member # 13772
posted 08-29-2002 02:12 PM
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Hi there. Can you tell me if you've actually tried the final products of any of these mixes? The reason I ask is that, as a teacher, I've gotten a variety of 'cookies in a jar' mixes as presents, and frankly, they don't really come out tasting that great. I'm particularly interested in the soup mixes and bath stuff, but info on any of the above will do. I think these are great for the kids to get involved with for making Christmas presents, but I want to make sure the finished product actually tastes good!
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love2bake
Member
Member # 12375
posted 08-29-2002 03:01 PM
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I haven't tried any of these ideas although I have received cookies in a jar mixes before, I'm not sure if they were some of the same recipes as were listed in the post, though. Like I said, these were just ideas posted by other people. NONE of them were mine other than the additional posts that I added after the original. I agree with you that the cookie mixes I got were not that great although, I've found that they are better when prepared shortly after mixed up. I did have a really good brownie one, though. I will look at home to see if I can find it. Other than that, I have only tried the homemade liqueur which turned out amazing. I'm sure there are some people that have tried them, though. Good luck! Sorry I can't be of more help.
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Craftldly
Member
Member # 7952
posted 08-30-2002 10:57 AM
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Mrs. D, I like the pamper me idea. Maybe fill with pretty hand towels and decorative soaps. How about the movie basket. Does she watch movies and eat popcorn or a special candy and snack she doesnt get all the time? How about new stuff for the kitchen. New dish rack(new color/theme) with pretty kitchen towels, pot holders, dish detergent, maybe some new wooden spoons, ladels, spatulas etc. New hamper filled with towels and soaps, shampoos, toilet paper. A basket doesn't have to be the typical whicker basket. Does she like cheese? How about a cheese and cracker basket with a nice cheese cutter. There are so many kinds of crakers now. Bakery bread with a few jars of apple butter, pear butter, strawberry butter etc. layed in a basket with a table cloth and cloth napkins to match. How about music? A boom box with cds. There are alot of the old favorites on cd now. Wow, not I'm out of ideas. Hope it helps.
Hey luvs, thanks for posting Christmas II. I'm so flattered you took my suggestion!
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Posts: 1432 | IP: Logged
love2bake
Member
Member # 12375
posted 08-30-2002 11:07 AM
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Wow Craftldy! Now you've got me going. How about a margarita basket? Line with decorative clothe napkins, put in pretty margarita glasses, include margarita mix, margarita salt, etc. I think I know what I'm doing for my girlfriend for her birthday. Does she have a favorite food? Big Italian fan? What about a spaghetti basket. You could get pasta bowls, an authentic marinara sauce, homemade pasta, clothe napkins. You really can do so much with the basket idea. You can make just about anything into a theme.
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Posts: 40 | IP: Logged
hsmom
Member
Member # 12984
posted 09-02-2002 01:58 AM
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Forgot to write who contributed these ideas last year? but I thought they were great! This was the ideas for someone who was trying to make some extra $$ for Christmas.
Food Baskets:
Spaghetti Dinner or Pizza Fixins or Soup or Romantic Picnic.
I've also seen Golfer Baskets, Chocoholics baskets, the obvious Bath basket, New Mom basket, Sick Kidlet basket, Quilter's basket.....
I'd pay between $20 - $30 depending on how much is in it.
First, you might try to have, say, 4 different basic themes or sizes, to make it easier on yourself. Second, try, if you can, to have _something_ that everyone can afford - i.e. have something in the $10-$15 range for the high school kid that needs to buy a Mother's Day gift! (Or the college kid who needs to give something to a prof. who wrote a letter of recommendation.) And go up from there.
1. A glass bowl, containing a bag of popcorn, a jar of cookie mix, a bag of French twist cookies, and a gift card to Blockbuster, all in a glass bowl .
2. A large stainless colander containing all sorts of kitchen gadgets! (a housewarming gift).
WRAPPING
baskets,towels, diapers, recieve blankets,fabric,or evern table clothes, plactic containers, for kids, or bags ( tote bags),,,all reuse able no waste and part of the gift.
The baby shower ones are a real hit, wrapped in a diaper ( I usually paint on the diaper,( something cute)and real cute diaper pins, and hook on baby rattles on the pins,,and I get cheap baby bottles ( and fill them with soft wash rags and misc. baby stuff).
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Posts: 120 | IP: Logged
Leebo
Junior Member
Member # 13945
posted 09-04-2002 09:27 PM
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I Havent tried any of the cookies in a jar, however the cocoa and marsh mellows is a Godd one!
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Posts: 6 | IP: Logged
hsmom
Member
Member # 12984
posted 09-06-2002 12:49 PM
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Some more I found from previous posts:
Not sure if anyone does any gag gifts for Christmas but here are some ideas that were
sent to me today. I did not check them for speeling errors:
here's the battery one I have: place 2 AA bateries in a box with a
note saying gift not included!
Pad About Slippers ( for the discrete Women)
you will need 4 maxi pads to make one pair.....(I can't help but
laugh as I type this one)
Lay 2 pads out flat, for the foot part. Use the other 2 and wrap
around the toe area to form top. Tape each side of the top pieces to
the bottom of the foot part. You could go all out and glue some
pretty flowers on them I guess.....lol.Add this little note with them:
Soft and Hygenic
Non-slip grip strips on the soles
Built in deodorant feature
Keeps feet smelling fresh
No more bending over to wipe up spills
Disposable and biodegradable. Environmentally safe
Senior Citizen's Money Clip
Using card stock print SENIOR CITIZEN'S MONEY CLIP leave enough
space in the middle to glue a penny in a paper clip.
Unfinished Furniture
label a box saying "Unfinished Furniture"
in the box place tree branches
Put some straw in a baggie and attach tag that says "Straw Hat--
Assembly Required"
Pinny Picher:
take a spring type clothes pin and write penny pincher on it. Glue a
penny inside the clip part.
Hillbilly flashlight:
take a piece of wood and attach a wooden kitchen match to one end of
it.
Roll In The Hay:
place straw and a tootie roll in a baggie
World's Smallest Puzzle
put sawdust in a baggie
on the tag add CAUTION DO NOT try to assemble on a windy day
Magic Weight Loss Beans (place beans in a small baggie)
1 Remove beans from bag.
2 Throw them on the floor.
3 Bend over and pick up each bean.
4 Repeat as needed.
Fish Bait
place dried split peas in a baggie add a topper that says:
(name of local lake, river etc) Fish Bait
Sprinkle bait over small section of water. When fish come up to take
a "PEA", GRAB IT!
OLD AGE PILLS place jelly beans in a large prescription bottle and
make a label saying:
Gas-yellow
Constipation-green
Forgetfulness-black
Arthritis-purple
Baldness-white
Deafness-orange
Wrinkles-pink
Sex-red
The red pill may be cut into fourths if needed.
Hillbilly Brief Case:
take a pair of mens briefs (new ones please!) sew the legs shut,
attach elastic handles to the waist band with buttons. Then put the
following items in the brief case:
nail- hillbilly toothpick
old car key- hillbilly ear wax remover
cut up newspaper strips the size of toliet paper- hillbilly toliet
paper
matches and a jar- hillbilly lantern
a jar of beans- hillbilly bubble bath
Leave the fly area open as this can hold pens and pencils real well.
Hillbilly Calculator:
make 2 feet cut out of construction paper toes included. Fold like a
card and inside number all the toes. On the outside write Hillbilly
Calculator
Weather Rock:
add card that says:
I'm a weather-wise rock.
Accuracy Guaranteed!
If I'm moving, it's windy.
If I'm white, it's snowing.
If I'm icy, it's sleeting.
If I'm bouncing, it's hailing.
If I'm hot and dry, it's sunny.
If I'm wet, it's raining.
If you can't see me, it's foggy.
If I'm gone, you've been ripped off!
I do a naughty one too... a flat clear glass marble..topper reads...Belly
button window..for people with heads up their butt....
---------------------------------------------
Hugs Box Gift Craft
Submitted by Pathfinder
Materials Needed:
Small Box
Tissue Paper
Glue
paper
Instructions:
Cut many approximately 2 inch x 2 inch squares from the tissue paper. Cut out plenty
because you will be covering the whole box!
Water down the glue - 2 parts glue to 1 part water. Lightly brush some glue on the box
and stick on the tissue paper squares you cut out. You want them to overlap so you do
not see the box. Work in small sections until the entire box is covered. Set aside to dry.
Once it is dry, you can lightly brush over your box with the glue and water mixture to make
it more durable and shiny; however this is optional.
Once dry, tie with curly ribbon as you would a wrapped present and attached a gift tag
which reads...
This is a very special gift
That you can never see
The reason it's so special is
It's just for you from me.
Whenever you are lonely
Or are ever feeling blue
You only have to hold this gift
And know I'm hugging you.
You never can unwrap it
Please leave the ribbon tied
Just hold the box close to your heart
It's filled with hugs inside.
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Scoop of Hugs and Kisses Craft
Materials Needed:
Laundry Scoop
Hugs and Kisses Candy
Clear or Colored Plastic Wrap
Ribbon
Instructions:
A simple gift idea! Fill the Laundry scoop with candy hugs and kisses. Cut a large piece of
plastic wrap. Set the scoop in the middle of the plastic wrap. Fold the plastic wrap over so
the two ends meet at the scoop handle. Pull the plastic wrap tightly around the scoop and
gather around the handle. Tie a ribbon around the handle to hold the plastic wrap in place.
Tie a note onto the scoop that says "A scoop of Hugs and Kisses for you".
*~A Texan in France~*
Snuggles
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IDEAS: "The 12 Days of Christmas"
Here is a "ring and run" activity to do with the children.
Buy the items listed below, make their tags, and have
the kids start dropping them off, one each day of course,
to a special friend on December 13. Do this after dark
and don't get caught!
ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...a partridge in a pear tree. Sorry, but we can't find
the partridge, so we are givng you some pears from the tree
the partridge flew away from. (attach to a can of pears)
ON THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love
gave to you...two turtle doves...but dont' have any...will
candy turtles with a bar of Dove soap do? (attach note to
a box or plate of caramel turtles w/ a boxed bar of Dove
soap.)
ON THE THIRD DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...three French hens...well, we don't have any French
hens, so we're giving you some chicken noodle soup,
compliments of the three French hens. (attach to can of
chicken noodle soup).
ON THE FOURTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love
gave to you...four calling birds...we can't find those calling
birds though! Here are 4 messages they left for you before
they flew off! (attach to 4 messages describing what a
wonderful person they are)
ON THE FIFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...five golden rings, but sorry, we're too poor for golden
rings, but will some golden pineapple rings do? (attach to
can of pineapple rings)
ON THE SIXTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...six geese a laying, but we know you don't really
want the mess of six geese all over your house, do you?
How about some eggs that they left behind! (attach to a
half dozen eggs)
ON THE SEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love
gave to you...seven swans a swimming! OK, we looked for
the swans, but couldn't find them, but we did find some bubble
bath they used while they were swimming! (attach to bottle
of bubble bath)
ON THE EIGHTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...eight maids a-milking. Here is some milk we got
from the eight maids -- we think they must have been milking
some brown cows! (attach to a container of chocolate milk)
ON THE NINTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love gave
to you...nine ladies dancing...Here are some canes used
by the nine ladies who were out dancing all night! (attach
to a nine candy canes)
ON THE TENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS: your true love gave
to you...ten lords-a-leapin' - here is some "Ben Gay", which
is highly recommended by the ten Lords we saw out jumping
around. (attach to a package of Ben Gay rubbing lotion)
ON THE ELEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love
gave to you...eleven pipers piping, so here is a pipe of your
own, have fun with it, but don't "blow" the whole day! (attach
to a bubble pipe and bubble solution)
ON THE TWELFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, your true love
gave to you...twelve drummers drumming, but we figured
twelve drummers drumming would take up way too much
room, so we drummed up some cookies for you...hope they
keep this from being just another hum-"drum" day for you!
(attach to a plate of cookies)
Magic Reindeer Food
Sprinkle on your lawn at night
The Moon will make it sparkle bright
Santa's Reindeer fly and roam
This will bring them to your home
Recipe:
in a small zipper food storage bag or empty shaker container, mix 1/2 cup oatmeal, 1/2 cup
sugar 1/4 cup red or green sugar crystals (sugar crystals are bird and wildlife freindly
instead of using craft glitter.)
Magic North Pole Snowflakes
So you'll be sure to have some snow
At Christmas time this year,
Santa sends these snowflakes
In hopes they bring good cheer!
Recipe:
Put snowflake confetti in little baggies and attach the above poem.
Candy Cane Seeds
I once knew a gardner who could grow
Bright tasty candies right out of the snow
I asked him to share his secret with me
And this is what he said quite readily
To garden in the winter is difficult you see
It takes lots of care and a very special seed
I'll give you some, to grow your own treats
You'll soon reap a harvest of candy cane sweets
Recipe: Starlight Mights or candy canes
Dustpan Cookies
I baked a batch of cookies
And dropped them on the floor
I quickly scooped them up again
And brought them to your door
Recipe: Purchase a new dust pan, fill it with holiday cookies, add a crumpled cookie on
top, add poem and cover with plastic wrap and tie on ribbons or bows.
Christmas Candle
Here's a Christmas Candle
A gift for your family to share
Let it brighten up your season
And spread gladness in the air.
It is hoped that you'll enjoy
A special season full of fun
And love will burn more brightly
When your holiday is done.
Attach poem to a christmas candle
I just happened to come across my Friendship threads magnet with the saying on it; here
goes:
THREADS OF A FRIENDSHIP THAT WILL NEVER BREAK
Thank you for the laughter,
The goodtimes that we share.
Thanks for always listening
For trying to be fair.
Thank you for your comfort,
When things are going bad.
Thank you for your shoulder
To cry on when I am sad.
This gift is a reminder
That all my lifetime through
I'll be thanking Heaven for
A Special Friends like YOU!!!
I am not sure if you know about the exercise block. You take a rather large block of wood,
about 2" x 2" x 4". To the top glue this note.
Instructions:
1. Place block in middle of the floor.
2. Run around the block several times.
3. Now you can tell everyone you exercised today by running around the
block!
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Home made gift "A Gift of Stress Relief!" Not sure where I got this, I just though it would make good christmas gifts.
"A Gift of Stress Relief!"
It's a small plastic lace bag (I'll use a piece of lace material instead for a prettier touch) and includes:
1 stick of gum
1 candy kiss
1 pkg of smarties
1 starburst candy
1 mini snickers
1 tootsie roll
1 individually wrapped lifesaver candy
The attached tag says:
A Gift of Stress Relief!
A stick of gum:
to remind you to "stick with it"!
A kiss:
to remind you that you are loved!
Smarties:
to help you on those days when you don't have all the answers!
Starburst:
to give you a "burst" of energy when you need it!
Snickers:
because sometimes you just need to laugh!
Tootsie Rolls:
to remind you not to bite off more than you can chew!
Lifesavers:
for those days when you need to be "rescued"!
A Bag:
to help you hold it all together and give you "food for thought"!
from Bunny in Germany @ ezboards
Recipe
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