Stop buying boxed brownie mix from the store! Well, you don't have to stop, but there is a very high likelihood that you have everything you need to make your own homemade brownie mix in just minutes. It's less expensive, you will know exactly what the ingredients are (no hidden chemicals), and even better? You can put the results in a cute little jar with some basic baking instructions for an inexpensive, simple, thoughtful hostess or holiday gift.

The above measurements will yield one batch of brownies in a 9x9 inch pan. This recipe can be scaled up evenly so that you can prepare multiple batches of the mix at a time, if desired. 2 cups = one batch of brownies.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar.

To prevent clumps, sift in the cocoa powder, as well as the espresso powder, if using.

Whisk the ingredients until evenly distributed, adding in the salt and cinnamon, if using.

Use immediately, or store in an airtight container.

To prepare a batch of brownies, preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x9 brownie pan with baking spray or butter. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of the brownie mix with 2 large eggs, 4 ounces of melted unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean from the center, approximately 23 to 25 minutes.