Master Baking Mix

I am on this weird kick right now. I keep wanting to make things as opposed to buying them. Like this baking mix. I could buy a box of Bisquick, but why do that when I can make it? I am sure this whole phase will fizzle out, but for now, I will continue to convince myself that I am saving money (which I am sure I am not).

Pancakes made with the mix (chocolate chips added for Jack's birthday).


I keep mine in a big jar with a good seal. But a plastic bag would work fine.

9 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/3 cup baking powder
1 Tbsp salt
2 tsp cream of tartar
4 Tbsp granulated sugar
2 ½ cups nonfat dry milk solids
2 cups shortening (which does not require refrigeration)

Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, cream of tartar and sugar three times. Add dry milk. Mix well. Cut in shortening until mixture looks like cornmeal. Store in covered container at room temperature.

Biscuits:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Combine 1 1/2 cups Master Baking Mix and 1/3 cup milk in a bowl. Add milk and stir. Knead lightly on floured board. Roll 1/2-inch thick; cut and place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes. Makes 8.
Options: Add grated cheese and chopped herbs. Increase milk to 1/2 cup for drop biscuits.

Muffins:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Beat together in a bowl 1 egg, 1 cup milk and 2 tablespoons sugar. Add 3 cups Master Baking Mix. Stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Spoon into greased muffin pans or into paper muffin cups and bake 20 minutes.
Options: Add drained fruit, chopped nuts or dried fruit. Replace 1/3 cup of Master Baking Mix called for with quick-cooking oatmeal or All-Bran® cereal. Add chopped dried fruit and nuts to recipe and bake as a fruit bread in a greased 8 x 5-inch loaf pan. Bake 40 minutes at 350 degrees F.

Pancakes or Waffles:
Beat together 1 cup milk and 1 egg. Stir in 1 1/2 cups Master Baking Mix. Bake on griddle or waffle iron.