Budget Basics: Baking Mix

Prepared foods -- like mixes -- are great for convenience, but often wind up costing you more than you think. Here's a clone for the brand-name baking mix that will shave as much as half off the price.

8 cups all-purpose flour (or 4 cups each all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour)
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups dry nonfat milk
2 cups shortening

Mix all dry ingredients together in large bowl (if you have a large mixer it is ideal to use for blending this mix but it can also be done quite adequately using a pastry blender to cut in shortening). Add shortening about a half cup at a time mixing well after each addition.

Put in air-tight container and store either in refrigerator or at room temperature. Use within about 3 months. Can also be frozen for longer storage.

Yield: about 12 cups of mix

To make Biscuits:

Mix 2 cups of Baking Mix with 1/2 cup water.
Bake at 450 degrees F for 8-10 minutes.

To make Muffins:

Mix 2 cups of Baking Mix with 2 Tbsp sugar, 1 beaten egg and 2/3 cup milk, and fruit of your choice.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes.

To make Pancakes:

Mix 2 cups of baking mix with 1 beaten egg and 1-1/3 cup milk (or buttermilk).

To make Waffles:

Mix 2 cups of Baking Mix with 1 beaten egg, 2 Tbsp oil, and 1-1/3 cup milk.

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