Homemade Baking Mixes

You need just four common pantry staples to put together this versatile mix. I use it in recipes that call for store-bought baking mix. It's the key to lightly browned biscuits as well as to chunky dumpling soup. —Tami Christman, Soda Springs, Idaho

I love these moist, fluffy pancakes on a wintry day. They make a perfect gift for family and friends. Just put the mix in two plastic bags tied with holiday ribbons, and don't forget to include prep directions. —Sharon Sutton, Lindsey, Ohio

I like to keep this basic muffin recipe mix in a handy place, like the pantry or cupboard, so I can mix up muffins quickly for dinner or if a friend is stopping by for coffee. —Nancy Mackey, Madison, Ohio

For variety, add extra goodies to this basic brownie recipe. It's a quick answer to dessert for a busy family or when unexpected company stops by. —Kathryn Roach, Edgemont, Arkansas

Thanks to apple pie spice and cinnamon, finicky eaters won't mind the heart-healthy use of whole wheat flour in these wonderful waffles. Give away half of the mix…and keep the other half for yourself! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

I make this recipe in two-quart batches and store them in airtight jars. My son and I both have celiac disease and love that we can use this mix to still enjoy traditional dishes. —Bernice Fenskie, Wexford, Pennsylvania

Whether your family prefers sweet or savory muffins, you can satisfy them with this versatile muffin mix. Included are directions to prepare plain, cheddar and cinnamon-raisin muffins. —Audrey Thibodeau, Gilbert, Arizona

This versatile baking mix is a great helper in the kitchen. You'll be amazed at the number of things you can make with it. —Alice Wrisley, Mohawk, New York

My mother-in-law shared the recipe for these golden waffles our daughter, Kayla, loves. Just add a few ingredients to the mix and you'll be enjoying their homemade whole-grain taste in minutes. —Michelle Sheldon, Edmond, Oklahoma

I discovered this recipe in our local newspaper, and when I gave it a try, my family loved it. While you can pack the dry ingredients into any kind of quart-sized container, a glass jar lets the pretty layers show. Cover an ordinary canning-jar lid with special fabric to customize the gift for an occasion or the season. —Lynn Dowdall, Perth, Ontario