Homemade Brownie Mix

In honor of next week’s Valentine’s Day, I thought it was high time that I did another “week” of treats! If you remember, last year, I did a bunch of recipes for Valentine’s Day (most of which you can find on my sidebar). And in 2011, same thing.This year I wanted to focus on an easy dessert that even if you have no time, work long hours, and don’t even want to think about being romantic on a Thursday, you can still make and enjoy. I will reiterate what I always say and that is, even if you don’t have a “special someone”, use the day to remind EVERYONE, including yourself, how much you love them. For example, this year we’re putting together a small basket for sister M at college. Just a little way for John and I to say “hi” and remind her how much we love and miss her.

Lately, I’ve been wondering what to do with all my canning jars. As the winter goes on, the cans start to empty and they just sit around the apartment. The very tiny apartment, if I could just remind you of that. So I’ve been putting them to work in different, more creative (maybe?) ways! I have a go-to brownie recipe that I use all the time. But, premaking these brownie mixes and storing them in mason jars means I can whip up brownies in literally just a few minutes.

Homemade Brownie Mix (adapted from Lynn’s Kitchen Adventures)
Serves: 9 (9×9 pan)
Brownie Mix:
1 1/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2/3 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups sugar
Brownies:
1 cup salted butter, completely melted
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and sugar in a large bowl. Pour into jars to save for later.

Or, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Stir the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, into the flour mixture until smooth and well combined. Pour into a greased 9×9 pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until fully cooked through (a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean). Let cool or serve immediately.

Can’t wait to show you the many variations of brownies we have going this week. Tomorrow is an absolute favorite of mine!

Until the next time my oven is on…