10+ 16 Ounce Mason Jar Recipes for Delicious and Convenient Meals

Mason jars are not just for preserves anymore. They are perfect for crafting delicious recipes, and the 16-ounce size is great for quick meals or tasty treats. You can easily create layered recipes that look beautiful and taste even better, making them ideal for gifts or personal enjoyment.

In this article, you will discover a variety of tasty mason jar recipes that are simple to follow. From sweet treats to savory dishes, these recipes are designed to make cooking fun and easy. When you’re ready to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and flavors, these mason jar ideas will inspire your next cooking adventure.

1) Overnight Oats with Berries

Overnight oats with berries make a tasty and healthy breakfast. You can prepare them the night before and grab them in the morning. This simple recipe is great for busy days.

To start, you will need rolled oats, milk, and your favorite berries. You can use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Chia seeds are optional for extra nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (or almond milk)
• 1 cup mixed berries
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a 16-ounce mason jar, add the rolled oats and chia seeds.
2. Pour in the milk and stir well to combine.
3. Layer your mixed berries on top.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate overnight.
5. Enjoy your oats cold in the morning!

2) Layered Desserts in a Jar

Layered desserts in a jar are fun and easy to make. You can combine different textures and flavors to create something tasty. These treats look great and are perfect for any occasion.

One popular option is a trifle. You can layer fresh fruit, cake pieces, and whipped cream in your 16-ounce mason jar. Try using berries, pound cake, and a rich vanilla cream.

Another tasty choice is a chocolate dessert. Start with a layer of crushed cookies, then add chocolate pudding, followed by whipped cream. Repeat the layers to fill your jar.

These desserts are great for sharing, or you can keep one all to yourself!

Ingredients

• Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, etc.)
• Cake (pound cake, sponge cake, etc.)
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate pudding
• Crushed cookies

Cooking Instructions

1. Layer your choice of fruit at the bottom.
2. Add cake pieces on top.
3. Spoon in whipped cream.
4. Repeat layers as desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

3) Classic Mason Jar Salads

Classic mason jar salads are an easy and fun way to enjoy fresh meals. You can layer your favorite ingredients to keep everything crisp. Start with the dressing at the bottom, then add hearty veggies, grains, proteins, and finish with greens.

These salads are perfect for meal prep. You can make several jars at once and store them in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and ready to grab for lunch or a snack.

You’ll love how convenient they are. Just shake it up when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a delicious meal wherever you go.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup salad dressing
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup grilled chicken, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens

Cooking Instructions

1. Pour the dressing into the bottom of a 16-ounce mason jar.
2. Layer cherry tomatoes on top of the dressing.
3. Add cucumbers next.
4. Add cooked quinoa.
5. Place diced grilled chicken on top.
6. Fill the jar with mixed greens.
7. Seal the jar and store in the fridge until ready to eat.

4) Homemade Pickles

Making homemade pickles is a fun and easy process. You can enjoy fresh pickles in just a day or two. They are perfect for sandwiches or as snacks.

To start, gather your cucumbers, dill, garlic, vinegar, and spices. Use a 16-ounce mason jar for this tasty recipe. You will love how customizable it is based on your favorite flavors.

Ingredients

• 1-½ lbs pickling cucumbers
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 6 cloves garlic, quartered
• Fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon peppercorns

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash the cucumbers and slice them as you like.
2. Pack the cucumber slices into a 16-ounce mason jar.
3. Add garlic, dill, mustard seeds, and peppercorns.
4. In a bowl, mix water and vinegar. Pour it into the jar.
5. Close the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.

5) Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seed pudding is a tasty and nutritious treat. It’s simple to make and can be enjoyed any time of the day. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite flavors.

To make your chia seed pudding, start with your 16-ounce mason jar. Combine chia seeds with almond milk and a sweetener of your choice. Stir well to mix everything together.

Next, let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight if you prefer. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and create a thick, pudding-like texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy, add fresh fruit or nuts on top for extra flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1-2 tablespoons sweetener (like maple syrup or honey)

Cooking Instructions

1. In your mason jar, mix chia seeds, almond milk, and sweetener.
2. Stir well until combined.
3. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, top with fruits or nuts if desired.

6) Mason Jar Soup Mix

Mason jar soup mixes are a great way to have quick and tasty meals ready at any time. You can customize the ingredients based on your tastes or what you have at home.

Start with a clean 16-ounce mason jar. Layer your favorite dried ingredients like beans, lentils, or pasta.

Add seasonings such as salt, pepper, and dried herbs. You can also include dehydrated vegetables for extra flavor.

This mix is perfect for gifting or having on hand for busy days. Just add water or broth, and you’ll have a warm meal in no time!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried beans or lentils
• 1/4 cup pasta
• 2 tablespoons dried vegetables
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a pot, combine contents from the jar.
2. Add 6 cups (1.4 liters) of water or broth.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C).
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.

7) DIY Cookie Mix Gift Jar

Making a DIY cookie mix gift jar is a fun and thoughtful idea. You can customize it to your liking, and it’s perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Start with a clean 16-ounce mason jar. Layer the dry ingredients for your favorite cookie recipe. You can use ingredients like flour, sugar, and chocolate chips. Each layer should be packed tightly for a nice look.

Once you fill the jar, you can add a decorative tag with baking instructions. This makes it easy for the recipient to bake delicious cookies. It’s a sweet gift that will be appreciated!

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ingredients from the jar.
3. Add 1/2 cup melted butter and 1 egg to the mix.
4. Stir until well combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Enjoy!

8) Fruit Preserves

Making fruit preserves is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal fruits all year round. You can use fruits like strawberries, peaches, or blueberries. The process is simple and rewarding.

To start, gather your fruits and prepare them by washing and chopping as needed. You’ll need sugar and lemon juice to help balance the flavors and enhance preservation.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped fruit
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare your 16-ounce mason jars by sterilizing them in boiling water.
2. In a large pot, combine the chopped fruit, sugar, and lemon juice.
3. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to boil, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Pour the hot fruit mixture into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
6. Seal the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes.
7. Allow the jars to cool before storing them in a cool, dark place.

9) DIY Spice Mix Jar

Making your own spice mix jar is easy and fun. You can customize it to fit your taste. It’s a great gift idea too!

Start with a 16-ounce mason jar. Choose your favorite spices to create a blend. For example, you might use chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Layer the ingredients in the jar for a pretty look. You can also add a label with instructions on how to use the mix.

This spice jar is perfect for seasoning meats, veggies, or soups. You’ll love having your own blend ready to use!

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups chili powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions

1. Measure and mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Layer spices in the mason jar.
3. Seal the jar tightly.
4. Label the jar with the name and usage suggestions.

10) Mason Jar Cheesecake

Mason jar cheesecakes are a fun and easy dessert to make. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Plus, they look adorable in the jars!

To start, make a creamy cheesecake filling. Combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla for the base. This creates a smooth texture that is both rich and delicious.

Next, prepare a simple graham cracker crust. Crush the crackers and mix with melted butter. Layer this mixture at the bottom of each jar.

Then, spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the crust. You can also add fruit or chocolate for extra flavor. Chill the jars in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

These individual desserts are great for parties or picnics!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (8 oz) cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Toppings (fruit or chocolate)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Crush the graham crackers and combine with melted butter.

3. Layer the graham cracker mixture at the bottom of each jar.

4. Then, spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the crust.

5. Add any toppings you like.

6. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.