Easy Homemade Mixes and Seasonings

This simple homemade chili powder is a blend of 5 herbs and spices. Use it in dips, chili, and in any recipe calling for chili powder.

Here's a DIY instant oatmeal you can make for a fraction of the price of store-bought packets, and it's extremely versatile. Add less sugar, process it longer for smoother oatmeal, or add a bit of maple flavoring or vanilla.

If your recipe calls for self-rising flour and you only have all-purpose, it's a snap to improvise. All you need to add is a little salt and baking powder.

This easy stuffing mix is similar to the convenient store-bought top-of-the-stove mix. It's an excellent use for day-old bread, and you probably have most of the seasonings on hand. 

This is something I always forget to buy, and it shows up in so many recipes. Keep a big container of dried minced onion on hand to make the mix any time you need it.

This is another convenience I use often. Keep a container of this biscuit mix in the refrigerator to use whenever you need it. This makes great biscuits and dumplings.

If your recipe calls for self-rising cornbread mix and you don't have it, here's how you can make it yourself.

This cinnamon sugar is a wonderful finishing touch for a whipped cream topping, pie, or dessert, or sprinkle it over buttered toast or your pancakes or French toast. 

Most purchased Cajun or Creole spice blends are made with the addition of salt. This homemade version is salt free, so it's much more versatile. Use it in any recipe calling for Cajun or Creole seasoning. 

Here's a quick how-to for making your own cake flour. Or, if all you have is cake flour and you need all-purpose, here's how to substitute.

Sprinkle vanilla sugar over your cereal or on pie crusts or desserts before baking. Or, use it to sweeten your coffee or tea. 

A variety of herbs and spices go into this Cajun style seasoning mixture. This is an excellent seasoning for pan-fried fish fillets or chicken.

Use this spice blend in pumpkin pies or sweet potato pies, sweet potato casseroles, custards, and other pumpkin cakes or desserts.

Use this basic herb seasoning blend to flavor sauces, fish or seafood dishes, or chicken.