It’s hard to beat store-bought mixes for ease and convenience when you want to whip something up quickly, but sometimes they contain overly processed, unhealthy ingredients or maybe just include an ingredient you don’t love.
Luckily, you can make your own version of many of these boxed mixes at home, so you can control the ingredients plus have them on hand when you need to make something in a jiffy. Here are seven simple DIY mixes you can make at home.
1. Bisquick
Making your own Bisquick at home enables you to make substitutions based on your dietary restrictions, allowing you to select the type of flour and control the amount of salt and butter.
Recipe: Don’t Waste The Crumbs
2. Nesquik
When you want chocolate milk, whip up your own version of Nesquik. This recipe only uses three ingredients—sugar, cocoa powder and salt—making it much healthier than the branded version, which is full of unpronounceable ingredients.
Recipe: One Good Thing By Jillee
3. Yellow Cake Mix
If you bake cakes often, it’s smart to have a big batch of cake mix on hand. Store it in a jar in your pantry and you’ll be able to whip up a cake whenever you want without having to run to the store.
Recipe: I Am Baker
4. Brownie Mix
You can make brownie mix in a matter of minutes with this recipe. The best part is it will keep for six months, so you’ll have it on hand whenever you need it.
Recipe: Spend With Pennies
5. Pancake Mix
If pancakes are a breakfast staple for you, you’ll want to keep some homemade mix on hand. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a trusty pancake mix that can store for up to eight months.
Recipe: Cooking Classy
6. Soup Mix
A pre-made soup mix is perfect for those evenings where you’re feeling lazy. Making your own is much cheaper, plus you avoid all those nasty chemicals and any herbs or spices you may not like.
Recipe: Ready Nutrition
7. Taco Seasoning
Taco seasoning can easily be made using spices at home, and this blend can be used to flavor chilis, meats, soups and more.
Recipe: 5 Dollar Dinners