Grocery shopping can sometimes feel like a game of budgeting versus cravings, especially when it comes to pricey items. You don’t have to break the bank buying these expensive grocery staples; many can be easily made at home for a fraction of the cost.
By taking a little time to prepare some of these items yourself, you not only save money but also gain control over the ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re looking to cut costs or impress your friends with homemade creations, there are plenty of options to explore.
Energy Bars
Making your own energy bars is simple and cost-effective. Store-bought options can be pricey, often costing over $1.89 each. By mixing ingredients from your pantry, you can whip up delicious bars for about $0.55 each.
Try combining dried fruits, nuts, and dates. Just blend them together until you get a thick paste, press it into a dish, and chill. You can customize flavors to suit your taste! For more ideas, check out this 3-ingredient energy bar recipe.
Tomato Sauce
Making tomato sauce at home can save you a good amount of cash. Instead of buying pricey jars, grab some canned tomatoes, onion, and garlic.
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan. Add your canned tomatoes, let it simmer, and you’ll have a rich sauce in no time.
You can also customize it with herbs and spices like basil or oregano. Making it yourself means you control the flavors and ingredients. Plus, you can batch cook and freeze it for later use!
Salad Dressing
Making salad dressing at home is super easy and can save you money. You likely have the ingredients in your pantry already.
A simple mix of olive oil and vinegar is a classic choice. You can experiment with flavors by adding mustard, honey, or fresh herbs.
For a quick option, try a two-to-one ratio of oil to vinegar. Shake it up, and you’re good to go! You’ll enjoy the freshness much more than store-bought versions.
Bread
Making bread at home can save you quite a bit of money. Whether it’s a simple white loaf or a hearty whole grain, the ingredients are usually inexpensive.
You only need flour, water, yeast, and salt. With a little time and patience, you can whip up fresh bread that tastes better than store-bought options.
Try experimenting with different recipes like bagels or pizza dough to get even more variety. Homemade bread can also be customized with herbs or seeds, making it uniquely yours.
Pizza
Making pizza at home can save you a lot of cash. Store-bought pizzas can be pricey, especially for quality ones. By whipping up your own, you control the ingredients and avoid those delivery fees.
A simple dough recipe can cost just a few dollars. Top it with your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings from your pantry or fridge. You can even make it gourmet for less. Homemade pizza is not just cheaper; it’s also a fun activity you can enjoy with family or friends.
Granola Bars
Making your own granola bars at home is simple and cost-effective. You can use ingredients like oats, honey, and your favorite nuts or seeds for a personalized touch.
Store-bought bars can be pricey and often packed with additives. By whipping up a batch yourself, you not only save money but also control what goes in.
Check out recipes like Chewy Granola Bars for an easy start, or try a no-bake version for a quick option. Enjoy your delicious, homemade snacks!
Frozen Fruit Bars
Making frozen fruit bars at home is a fun and simple way to enjoy a refreshing treat. You can control the ingredients and avoid added sugars found in store-bought options.
Start with your favorite fruits, blend them with a bit of juice or yogurt, and pour the mixture into molds. Freeze them for a few hours, and you have a healthy snack ready to go.
Not only are they cheaper, but you can also get creative with flavors. Try mixing fruits or adding a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist. Enjoy your homemade frozen fruit bars all summer long!
Pickles
Making pickles at home is easier and cheaper than you might think. All you need are cucumbers, vinegar, water, and your favorite spices.
You can customize the flavor to your liking—add garlic, dill, or red pepper flakes. Plus, homemade pickles taste fresher than store-bought.
Check out this simple recipe for easy homemade pickles and start saving money while enjoying a delicious snack.
Tortillas
Making tortillas at home is not only fun but also saves you money. You can whip up a batch for just a few cents each.
Using masa harina, you can create around 60 tortillas for less than $2.50. Just add salt and water, and you’re good to go.
Homemade tortillas taste fresher and can elevate your meals. You’ll notice the difference in flavor and texture compared to store-bought.
Guacamole
Making guacamole at home can save you a lot compared to store-bought versions. You really only need a few ingredients: ripe avocados, lime juice, garlic, and salt.
When shopping, choose smaller avocados, as they’re often cheaper. You can whip up a tasty batch for just a few dollars. Check out different recipes online for various flavor twists, like adding jalapeños or tomatoes for an extra kick.
Enjoy your fresh and affordable guacamole with chips or as a topping for tacos! It’s a delicious way to add a hit of flavor without breaking the bank.
Chocolate-Hazelnut Butter
Making chocolate-hazelnut butter at home is simpler than you might think. You just need hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and a sweetener of your choice.
Roasting the hazelnuts first brings out their natural flavor. Blend them until smooth, then mix in cocoa and sweetener to taste.
This homemade version tends to be healthier and cheaper than store-bought options. You can adjust the sweetness or add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or straight from the jar!
Spaghetti Sauce
Making spaghetti sauce at home is not just easy; it’s also a great way to save money. Store-bought jars can cost up to $13, while homemade sauce can be made for under $1 if you stick to basic ingredients.
You can use canned tomatoes or fresh ones, along with just a couple of other ingredients like onions and garlic. Just sauté, simmer, and voilà! You’ve got delicious sauce ready to serve.
Skip the pricey brands and enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank. Plus, you can customize it to your liking!
