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If you’re looking for a delightful and heartwarming gift or a festive treat to have on hand this season, the Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe is an absolute must-try. This charming layered jar combines the warm flavors of snickerdoodle cookie mix, cozy cinnamon-sugar, rolled oats, and cheerful red and green M&Ms, all beautifully presented in a simple way that’s as fun to give as it is to receive. It’s a creative and festive way to share homemade goodness without the fuss of measuring ingredients each time you bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The wonderful thing about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and festive color that truly bring the Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe to life.
- Snickerdoodle cookie mix: The star of the jar, providing that classic cinnamon-sugar cookie base that’s soft, buttery, and irresistible.
- Rolled oats: Adds a wholesome chewiness and rustic texture that pairs beautifully with the soft cookie mix.
- Cinnamon-sugar: Sprinkled between layers for that extra warm, sweet spice that gives snickerdoodles their signature charm.
- Red and green M&Ms: A festive pop of color and chocolaty bite that instantly makes the mix feel celebratory and fun.
- Ribbon and tag: Perfect finishing touches to turn your jar into a gift-ready delight; don’t forget to label it with baking instructions!
How to Make Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Choose clean, clear glass jars with tight lids that will show off the beautiful, layered ingredients. This not only keeps the mix fresh but also emphasizes the festive colors and textures that make this recipe so appealing.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Start by adding ¾ cup of the snickerdoodle cookie mix to the bottom of each jar. Next, sprinkle ¼ cup of rolled oats evenly on top, followed by a tablespoon of cinnamon-sugar so that each layer is distinct and visually delightful. Finally, pour ¼ cup of red and green M&Ms on top as a colorful topping. Repeat these layers carefully if you want taller jars or a more dramatic presentation.
Step 3: Seal and Decorate
Once the jars are filled, seal them tightly with their lids to keep the ingredients fresh. Add a festive ribbon around the neck of the jar and attach a cute tag with baking instructions or a personal message to complete the gift-ready appearance.
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
When you’re ready to bake and serve, adding a quick sprinkle of extra cinnamon-sugar on the top of your cookie dough before baking enhances the aroma and gives a sweet crunchy finish. For a luscious touch, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar makes these cookies even more festive.
Side Dishes
These cookie treats are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced cider, hot chocolate, or a creamy eggnog. Serving these alongside holiday beverages elevates the cozy feel of any gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation beyond the jar, consider pairing the mix with a small wooden spoon tied to the jar, or nestle it inside a rustic gift basket with other holiday goodies like homemade jam, tea, or candles. You can also personalize tags with handwritten notes or baking tips to add a thoughtful touch that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve prepared multiple jars, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness. Since the mixture is dry and stable, it will stay perfect for several weeks as long as the jars remain sealed tightly.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t necessary for this cookie mix in a jar recipe, if you decide to bake the cookies and want to keep extras for later, store baked cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Reheating
For freshly baked cookies, reheat them gently in a low oven for a few minutes to bring back their soft texture and warm aroma. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy instead of tender and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use a different cookie mix instead of snickerdoodle?
Absolutely! While snickerdoodle offers that classic cinnamon charm, you can experiment with sugar cookie or even chocolate chip mixes to create variations, though the flavor will shift accordingly.
How long will the Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe last unopened?
If stored properly in sealed jars, the dry mix can last up to 6 months. Just keep the jars away from heat and moisture for the best results.
Do I need to add wet ingredients when baking from the jar?
Yes, the jar includes the dry ingredients only. You will typically need to add eggs, butter, or oil as the original cookie mix instructions specify. Always check the cookie mix package for exact directions.
Can I prepare the jars in advance for holiday gifts?
Definitely! These jars make perfect make-ahead gifts and can be prepped weeks in advance. Just be sure to add clear baking instructions on the tag so your friends and family know how to enjoy them.
Is it possible to customize the mix for allergies?
Yes, you can customize by choosing allergen-free cookie mixes and substitute the M&Ms with allergy-friendly chocolate or dried fruit alternatives to suit your recipient’s needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing a homemade Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe. It’s a sweet way to spread holiday cheer, invite warm memories, and bake up delicious moments with loved ones. I encourage you to try making these jars for your friends, family, or even yourself—you’ll love how this simple idea brings so much joy and festive spirit to the season.
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Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar is a delightful and convenient holiday gift or treat. Each jar contains all the dry ingredients needed to make delicious Snickerdoodle cookies with a holiday twist, featuring cinnamon-sugar and colorful red and green M&Ms. Perfect for gift-giving or enjoying fresh-baked cookies with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 17.9 oz bag Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix, divided (¾ cups per jar)
- 1 cup rolled oats, divided (¼ cup per jar)
- 4 tablespoons cinnamon-sugar mix
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms, divided (¼ cup per jar)
Extras
- Ribbon and tag for decoration (see Free Printable Link in Notes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jars: Begin by portioning out the dry ingredients into four separate jars. Add ¾ cup of Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix to each jar, followed by ¼ cup of rolled oats.
- Add the Mix-ins: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cinnamon-sugar into each jar. Then add ¼ cup of red and green M&Ms to each jar, layering them to create a festive look. Seal the jars tightly.
- Label and Decorate: Attach a ribbon and a tag to each jar. Use the free printable tags from the notes section. These tags can include baking instructions for the recipient.
- Baking Instructions (To Include with Gift): When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the contents of one jar with ½ cup butter softened and 1 large egg. Mix thoroughly to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Notes
- Use a sturdy quart-sized mason jar for layering ingredients.
- For the cinnamon-sugar, mix 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
- Store jars in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
- Include baking instructions card with the gift for easy preparation by the recipient.
- Ribbon and printable tags enhance the presentation making it perfect for holiday gifting.
