Saving On Holiday Baking

If you're like me, you always want to baking items on hand in case you get the urge to bake.

One time of year that is absolutely crucial to be stocked well is during the holidays.

With a little planning, it can prove to be painless.

Plan

Starting a few months before you plan on starting your holiday baking, start watching your local stores for sales. Sugars, flours, peanut butters, chocolate chips all have a nice long shelf life, especially when left unopened. Reserve a spot in your pantry for your finds.

I have been able to get 16 oz jars of peanut butter and 12 oz bags of chocolate chips for .99 as early as July and put them away for the fall.

Buy in Bulk

If you have access to a BJ's, Sam's or Costco, a membership could prove to be a wise investment.

for example :

A 5 pound bag of Dixie Crystals Sugar in the grocery store can run $3.69, which breaks down to .74 a pound. 

At Sam's, you can buy a 50 pound bag of Dixie Crystals for $19.99, bringing the cost per pound down to .39 per pound. 

If 50 pounds of sugar seems daunting, the 25 pound bag also breaks down to about .40 a pound. You could also get a bag and split it with someone - just make certain you each have a nice airtight container for your share.


I'll be adding additional tips as they come up - check back often!