DIY Chocolate Chip Cookies Homemade Mix in A Jar

This DIY Chocolate Chip Cookies Mix in a Jar is a delicious and economical homemade gift idea, perfect for original home-made Christmas gifts. A quick and easy mix to package, able to amaze your dearest friends who will only have to incorporate the liquids, before shaping the biscuits and baking them, obtaining delicious cookies in a jar in just a few minutes.

To make it, you will need a clean and sterilized 500 gram jar with an airtight seal and a few, simple, dry ingredients, which will be arranged in layers, pressed with the back of a ladle or a spoon: all-purpose flour, baking powder, vanilla powder, granulated and cane sugar, bitter cocoa and chocolate chips. For a flawless result and a beautiful visual effect, it is essential that the various layers are well separated and regular.

All you have to do is attach a card with the instructions for use and cooking, a bow, a pine sprig to decorate and that's it: your chocolate cookie mix will be ready to be placed in a rich Christmas basket, or to be given as a gift together with Christmas molds, a rolling pin or a mini-sized hand whisk.

What is DIY Cookie Mix in a Jar?

Ready-made cookie mixes trace their origins back to the early 20th century when convenience foods began gaining popularity in American households. Companies like Betty Crocker and Pillsbury pioneered the concept, introducing pre-measured dry ingredients for quick and easy baking. These mixes were revolutionary during the Great Depression and World War II, as they saved time and ensured consistent results during periods of economic hardship and rationing.

In recent years, the concept has taken a personalized turn with the rise of homemade "cookie mix in a jar" trends. This DIY adaptation, often gifted during holidays or shared as creative projects, merges the practicality of ready-made mixes with the charm of homemade touch. These jarred mixes not only celebrate nostalgia but also cater to modern preferences for thoughtful, artisanal gifts that evoke warmth and effort—an irresistible combination for bakers and gift-givers alike.

Pro Tips for The Best DIY Cookie Mix

• Ensure all ingredients, especially baking powder and spices, are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Pack the ingredients tightly in the jar to create distinct, visually appealing layers and prevent them from shifting.
• Include a note detailing the wet ingredients needed (like butter and eggs) and baking directions for foolproof results.
• Choose premium chocolate chips or chunks to elevate the flavor of your cookies.
• Once wet and dry ingredients are combined, ensure the dough is evenly mixed to avoid uneven baking.

Is This Cheaper Than Buying a Ready-Made One?

Yes, making your own cookie mix is often cheaper than buying a ready-made one, especially if you bake frequently and already have the basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking powder at home. Store-bought mixes include packaging and branding costs, which can drive up the price. By creating your own, you not only save money but also have control over ingredient quality and portion size, making it a budget-friendly and customizable option.

What's the Best Flour for This Mix?

The best flour for this cookie mix is all-purpose flour, as it provides a balanced protein content that ensures cookies are sturdy yet tender. It works well for most recipes, creating a chewy, slightly crisp texture. For a softer cookie, you can mix in a small portion of cake flour, but all-purpose remains the ideal choice for versatility and consistent results.

Can I Mix the Ingredients Together?

While you can mix the ingredients together in the jar, creating layers has distinct benefits. Layering keeps the ingredients visually appealing, making the jar more gift-worthy, and prevents premature mixing of leavening agents like baking powder with the flour, ensuring freshness. Mixing everything together can still work, but it’s better suited for immediate use rather than long-term storage or gifting.

Can I Use Another Type of Jar Instead of a Mason Jar?

Yes, other types of jars can be used instead of a mason jar, as long as they are airtight and sturdy. Recycled glass jars from pasta sauce or jam can work well, provided they’re thoroughly cleaned and dried. Decorative clamp-top jars or screw-top jars are also great alternatives, adding a unique touch while keeping the ingredients fresh.

Can I Make These DIY Cookie Mix Gluten-Free?

Of course you can! For a gluten-free version, you can replace the wheat flour with rice flour or a gluten-free mix.

How Do I Make Cookies With This DIY Mix?

To make delicious cookies starting from the mix in a jar, just pour the preparation into a bowl, mix all the ingredients, add 40 ml of oil and 100 ml of milk, knead until you get a compact dough and cut out the cookies in the shape you prefer. Once shaped, place them on a baking tray, covered with baking paper, and cook in static mode at 360°F  (180°C) for 20 minutes, then leave them to cool on a rack before enjoying them.

What Other Types of Cookie Mix Can I Make in A Jar?

You can create a variety of cookie mixes in a jar, including chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, double chocolate, peanut butter, and sugar cookie mixes. For seasonal flair, try gingerbread or snickerdoodle mixes. Each recipe follows the same layering principle but with tailored ingredients.

Can I Freeze This Cookie Mix?

Yes, this cookie mix can be frozen, but it’s best to transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container to save space and prevent glass breakage. Freezing extends the shelf life of the mix, keeping the ingredients fresh. Just ensure it’s brought to room temperature before using, as clumped ingredients can affect mixing and baking.

How to Store DIY Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar

This DIY Cookie Mix can be stored inside of a tightly closed mason jar in a dry, cool place for up to 6 months. Once the jar is opened, the mix must be used within a few days.

How to Make DIY Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar

Collect the sifted flour, baking powder and vanilla powder in a bowl, mix them carefully and transfer half of the mixture to the bottom of a 500 grams sterilized mason jar.

Compact it and level it well, using the back of a ladle or spoon.

Place a layer of bitter cocoa and compact this too.

Place the other half of the flour mixture and the brown sugar, continuing to level each layer.

Finally, distribute the granulated sugar and the chocolate chips. Press with the back of the ladle and close the jar with the appropriate airtight cap.

Decorate the jar with a ribbon, some pine needles, the label with the name and the tag with the instructions for use and cooking: your cookie mix in a jar is ready to be given to your dearest friends.