Amy 18 Comments
Are you trying to save money at the grocery store by not spending a ton of money on premade mixes?
Did you run out of something while you are making a favorite dish?
What if you could make homemade dry mixes with pantry staples you probably already have?
You can make most homemade dry mix recipes for your pantry at home by purchasing normal everyday items and keeping them on hand. To save time, you can make these easily on the weekends and even let the kids help and store them in your pantry for when you are ready to use them.
I used to be a single mom of one with a huge debt. By saving money on my grocery bill I was able to pay off a 5 figure credit card bill with my entry level job within six months. I used mixes just like these to help stretch my grocery budget and still make most of the same meals we loved so much. It is all in how you think about it.
Homemade Dry Mix Recipes for Your Pantry
This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a commission on any purchase you make through a link, which won’t cost you a thing.
Brownie Mix
Muffin Mix
Biscuit Mix (Homemade Bisquick)
Pancake mix
Oatmeal Cookie Mix
Use organic rolled oats like this brand to make cookies, muffins and just plain ole oatmeal.
Hot Chocolate Mix
Homemade Cream Soup Mix – Thrifty Frugal Mom
Chocolate pudding mix – Country Cleaver
How to save money using your pantry
Having these mixes made and on hand will help save you time during meal time. If you are trying to cut back on your budget, your pantry is the best place to start. Start making your own mixes to have them on hand when ever you need them. Or keep these handy in case you run out. These have definitely saved me a time or two. Be sure to check out my complete list of pantry staples and homemade seasonings you can make at home.
How to stock your pantry
One thing for sure, buying the basic ingredients costs way less than purchasing a box of a premade mix. Plus you know exactly what ingredients you are putting in to your mixes.
Use this pantry list I have already created to help you keep your pantry stocked and help you know what you need to buy next. Try to buy bulk items like flour, oatmeal and beans to keep on hand. Use my homemade chicken stock recipe to keep in the freezer for soups and stews.
Best Pantry Storage Ideas to Stock Your Pantry
It is best to get organized with great containers to keep all your basic ingredients and your homemade mixes in order. I highly recommend storage containers like this starter set from OXO or this smaller set. These containers easily stack together to create a clean an organized shelf. I like to label all my mixes and ingredients with a label maker like this one. That way everyone can find what they are looking for, and it keeps your pantry nice and tidy. It is also a great idea to have a great set like these Pyrex glass measuring cups and these metal measuring spoons to help you while creating your mixes. I recommend using medium glass jars like these or quart jars like these for larger mixes like the brownies or cookies. Label the jars the with the recipe and the wet ingredients you need to add. Simply wash and refill when needed.
It warms my heart hearing from you and seeing the recipes you create! Share your creations on Instagram and tag me @mainlyhomemadeand use #mainlyhomemade, or you can also find me on Facebook, and Pinterest. Thanks for helping me spread the word about homemade delicious food!
Tips to make the best mixes
Since you are making these pantry staple mixes yourself, use quality ingredients you will feel glad feeding your family. Let the kids help you make these mixes, since measuring helps with math and baking is science.
A substitution to consider instead of using white flour, try organic whole grain wheat flour for your mixes like this one.
Same thing with oatmeal, use organic rolled oats like this brand to make cookies, muffins and just plain ole oatmeal.
Next store your mixes in glass jars to keep them fresh.