Cookie Mix in a Jar

A jar of cookie mix makes a fun and festive gift – for the holidays or as a special thank you to a teacher, babysitter or neighbor. Easy to make, the kids can help layer the ingredients and decorate the jars with ribbons. Before gifting, attach a card with the instructions to the jar. (You can also customize these gifts to fit taste preferences and dietary needs.)

And don’t forget to gift yourself: it’s perfect for those days when you’re just too busy to gather all the ingredients.

Try this!

White Chocolate Cranberry
Oatmeal Cookies

Makes 18 cookies

1 quart-size mason jar
1/3 cup white sugar
1/3 cup light brown sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1 cup dried cranberries*
1 cup white chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips)*

1. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in a bowl and mix well. Pour mixture into jar and pack down well.

2. Add the brown sugar. Pack down well.

3. Place white sugar in the jar. Pack down well.

4. Layer in the oats, then the cranberries, then the chocolate chips.

5. Seal with lid, decorate with a ribbon and attach baking instructions (see sidebar).

NOTE: If stored in a cool, dry and dark place, your gift can last for up to 6 months. If the mix contains nuts, it should be used within 3 months.

*Try swapping out the cranberries and/or chocolate chips with chopped nuts, raisins or M&Ms.

For the attached card/label:

White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies

You will need: this jar of cookie mix, 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened), 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla.

To make: In a large bowl, mix butter, egg and vanilla extract until blended. Add contents of jar and mix well. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.