To make the gift jar: Begin by layering all the ingredients in a large glass jar. For a pretty presentation option, layer the ingredients in the following way: 1/2 the oat flour, the sugar, the remaining oat flour and the cacao powder. Above that add the baking powder, salt and vanilla powder.* Finally, add the chocolate chips and top with crushed walnuts and the jar is done.
Next, it's time to move on to the decorations. There are various elements to think about here: ribbon, recipe card, string, labels, material for the top of the jar etc.
If you're making a lot for different people then you can use different decorative touches and personalised recipe cards. This will surprise and delight your loved ones. ** ( see notes for more guidance)
To make the brownies: The first step to making the brownies is to beat the eggs with the melted butter ( or mix the vegan ingredients).
In a separate bowl mix the dry ingredients and crush the walnuts into smaller chunks.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together till thoroughly combined and pour into a lined 8" square oven tray.
Bake for fifteen minutes at 325ºF/170ºC (fan-assisted) and then leave to cool slightly before cutting slices.
Video
Notes
Note* I actually used homemade vanilla powder for this recipe. It's super simple to make and you can check out the 3 easy steps here: DIY: How to make Vanilla Powder.** I'm not going to tell you exactly how to do this part because I think half of the fun is in this part. I personally wanted quite a rustic. natural 'homemade' look so I included hessian material with twine and a recycled brown recipe card. In terms of your recipe card. Once again, the way you choose to do this is entirely up to you. Some people like to print a design out onto card, some do theirs handwritten on bought tags. For an even more sustainable version then you can use leftover card or materials from your home. In fact, this mason jar Christmas gift is a wonderful option for a sustainable gift giver. You can save up the jars throughout the year and use sustainable decorations such as recycled paper/card and materials. You can even use materials from old clothes otherwise destined for the bin, to make the ribbon and topper. The dry ingredients can last up to 6 months in an air-tight container.