Snickerdoodle Mix in a Jar: The Perfect Homemade Gift (and Recipes!)
Looking for a thoughtful, homemade gift that’s both practical and delicious? Or perhaps you just want a convenient way to whip up a batch of warm, comforting snickerdoodles whenever the craving strikes? Look no further than snickerdoodle mix in a jar! This simple yet charming gift is incredibly easy to assemble, visually appealing, and guarantees a delightful batch of cookies. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to control the ingredients and avoid those mystery additives found in some store-bought mixes.
This blog post will guide you through creating the perfect snickerdoodle mix in a jar, complete with detailed instructions, layering tips, and printable gift tags. But that’s not all! We’ll also explore several delicious recipes that utilize your homemade mix, from classic snickerdoodles to snickerdoodle-inspired variations. Get ready to spread some cookie cheer!
**Why Snickerdoodle Mix in a Jar is the Perfect Gift**
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s consider why snickerdoodle mix in a jar makes such a wonderful gift:
* **Homemade with Love:** Nothing says “I care” quite like a homemade gift. It shows you took the time and effort to create something special.
* **Practical and Useful:** Unlike some gifts that gather dust, a snickerdoodle mix is something the recipient will actually use and enjoy. Who doesn’t love freshly baked cookies?
* **Customizable:** You can tailor the ingredients to suit dietary restrictions or preferences. Gluten-free? No problem! Prefer organic ingredients? Go for it!
* **Affordable:** Compared to buying pre-made gift baskets or expensive store-bought treats, a snickerdoodle mix in a jar is budget-friendly, especially if you’re making multiple gifts.
* **Visually Appealing:** The layered ingredients in the jar create a beautiful, rustic aesthetic that’s sure to impress.
* **Easy to Assemble:** Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can easily put together this mix in just a few minutes.
* **Delicious Results:** Most importantly, the recipient will be rewarded with a batch of warm, chewy, and utterly irresistible snickerdoodles.
**What You’ll Need to Make Snickerdoodle Mix in a Jar**
Here’s a list of the ingredients and supplies you’ll need to create your snickerdoodle mix:
* **Dry Ingredients:**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend)
* 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon cream of tartar (essential for that signature snickerdoodle tang!)
* ½ teaspoon salt
* **Topping (for separate small bag or container):**
* 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
* **Jar:**
* 1-quart (4-cup) wide-mouth mason jar
* **Other Supplies:**
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Mixing bowls (for pre-mixing ingredients, optional)
* Spoon or funnel (for layering ingredients into the jar)
* Decorative ribbon or twine
* Gift tag (printable template provided below!)
**Step-by-Step Instructions: Assembling the Snickerdoodle Mix in a Jar**
Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful and delicious snickerdoodle mix in a jar:
1. **Prepare Your Ingredients:** Measure out all of your dry ingredients accurately. For a more even distribution within the jar, you can optionally pre-mix the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt in a separate bowl. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it can help ensure a consistent cookie texture.
2. **Layer the Ingredients:** This is where the visual appeal comes in! Layer the ingredients into the mason jar in the following order:
* **First Layer:** Flour mixture (if pre-mixed) or flour alone.
* **Second Layer:** Granulated sugar. Gently tap the jar on the counter after each layer to settle the ingredients.
* **Third Layer:** Baking soda.
* **Fourth Layer:** Cream of tartar.
* **Fifth Layer:** Salt.
3. **Pack it Tight:** After adding each layer, gently press down with the back of a spoon to compact the ingredients. This will help prevent them from mixing too much during transport and create more defined layers.
4. **Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Mix well until evenly distributed.
5. **Package the Topping:** Place the cinnamon-sugar mixture in a small resealable bag or container. This will prevent it from mixing with the dry ingredients in the jar and ensure that the cookies are properly coated before baking. You can attach the small bag to the jar with ribbon or twine.
6. **Seal and Decorate:** Securely seal the mason jar with its lid. Decorate the jar with a ribbon or twine tied around the neck. You can also add a festive tag or ornament.
7. **Attach the Gift Tag:** Print out the provided gift tag (see below for a template) and attach it to the jar. The tag should include baking instructions and any other relevant information, such as dietary considerations.
**Printable Gift Tag Template**
Here’s a sample gift tag template you can use:
**Snickerdoodle Cookies**
You will need:
* Snickerdoodle mix in this jar
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the snickerdoodle mix from the jar, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
5. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag).
6. Place the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Enjoy!
**Variations and Customization**
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure the recipient is aware that the mix is gluten-free.
* **Organic:** Use organic flour, sugar, and cinnamon for an all-organic snickerdoodle mix.
* **Spiced Snickerdoodles:** Add ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the flour mixture for a warm, spiced twist.
* **Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodles:** Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the flour mixture for a chocolatey treat.
* **Different Sugars:** Experiment with using brown sugar in addition to or in place of granulated sugar. Brown sugar will add a richer, molasses-like flavor.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the flour mixture for added texture and flavor. Make sure to note any nut allergies on the gift tag.
* **Vegan:** While the mix itself is vegan, the recipe requires butter and egg. You can include instructions on the gift tag for using vegan butter substitutes and egg replacements (such as applesauce or flaxseed meal).
**Tips for Success**
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Ensure that all of your ingredients are fresh, especially the baking soda and cream of tartar. This will help ensure that the cookies rise properly and have the right texture.
* **Measure Accurately:** Accurate measuring is crucial for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for dry ingredients.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
* **Chill the Dough (Optional):** For a chewier cookie, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This will also prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
* **Bake Evenly:** Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure that the cookies bake evenly.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking can result in dry, crumbly cookies. Bake until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still slightly soft.
**Beyond the Classic: Snickerdoodle Mix Recipe Variations**
Now that you’ve created your snickerdoodle mix, let’s explore some exciting variations on the classic snickerdoodle cookie. These recipes will use your mix as a base, allowing you to easily create delicious and unique treats.
**1. Snickerdoodle Blondies**
Transform your snickerdoodle mix into a batch of chewy, blondie bars! These are perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple weeknight dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* Snickerdoodle mix (from one jar)
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
3. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the snickerdoodle mix, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the batter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
**2. Snickerdoodle Muffins**
Start your day with a warm and comforting snickerdoodle muffin! These are easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
**Ingredients:**
* Snickerdoodle mix (from one jar)
* ½ cup milk
* ¼ cup vegetable oil
* 1 large egg
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* Cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
3. In a large bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the snickerdoodle mix, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fill the muffin liners about ¾ full.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the muffins.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
**3. Snickerdoodle Scones**
Enjoy a slightly crumbly and delightfully spiced snickerdoodle scone! These are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
**Ingredients:**
* Snickerdoodle mix (from one jar)
* ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* ½ cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the snickerdoodle mix and the cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the cream mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick circle.
7. Use a knife or biscuit cutter to cut the circle into 8 wedges.
8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the scones.
10. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
11. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
**4. Snickerdoodle French Toast Casserole**
This snickerdoodle french toast casserole is a showstopper. Preparing it the night before makes it perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving brunch. No one would guess it started with a snickerdoodle mix!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of challah bread or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* Snickerdoodle mix (from one jar)
* 1 ½ cups milk
* 6 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* Cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag)
**Instructions:**
1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the snickerdoodle mix, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they are soaked.
5. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the casserole.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.
**5. Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Sandwiches**
Elevate store-bought ice cream with some delicious homemade Snickerdoodle cookies. These frozen treats are the perfect way to end the summer.
**Ingredients:**
* Snickerdoodle mix (from one jar)
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Cinnamon-sugar topping (from the small bag)
* 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened slightly
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the snickerdoodle cookies according to the instructions on the gift tag.
2. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous layer of softened ice cream on the flat side of one cookie.
4. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich.
5. Repeat with the remaining cookies and ice cream.
6. Wrap each ice cream sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes to allow the ice cream to firm up.
7. Serve and enjoy!
**Conclusion: Spread the Cookie Love!**
Snickerdoodle mix in a jar is a thoughtful, affordable, and customizable gift that’s sure to bring joy to anyone who receives it. With its beautiful layers and promise of delicious homemade cookies, it’s a present that’s both visually appealing and incredibly practical. And with the added bonus of versatile recipes like blondies, muffins, scones, french toast casserole and ice cream sandwiches, you’re giving the gift of endless baking possibilities. So gather your ingredients, grab your mason jars, and get ready to spread some cookie love! Happy baking! The warm, cinnamon-y aroma of freshly baked snickerdoodles is guaranteed to create smiles and sweet memories. This snickerdoodle mix in a jar guide provides ample opportunity to customize the gift to perfectly suit the recipient, and with the diverse recipes, a single jar becomes the source of countless delicious adventures.