Gluten-Free Coffee Date and Walnut Cake recipe

Indulge in a delightful baking experience with our Gluten-Free Coffee Date and Walnut Cake recipe, featuring top-notch ingredients sourced from Western Australia and other Australian regions, available at Wasteless Pantry.

Ingredients:

  • 225g unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
  • 225g brown sugar (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 4 tablespoons brewed Australian Skybury Coffee (available at Wasteless Pantry)
  • 225g Gluten-Free Self-Raising Flour (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 4 medium eggs
  • 150g WA Omega Walnuts (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 100g pitted dates (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)

Buttercream:

  • 350g icing sugar (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 200g unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
  • 4 tablespoons brewed Australian Skybury Coffee (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)

Method:

  1. Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a loaf tin with a silicone reusable baking mat.
  2. Mix: Cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Gradually mix in the flour, eggs, and baking powder. Blend in the brewed coffee.
  3. Fold: Gently fold in chopped dates and walnuts.
  4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 50 minutes. Allow to cool afterwards.
  5. Buttercream: While the cake bakes, prepare the buttercream by creaming together the icing sugar and butter, then blending in the coffee until smooth.
  6. Decorate: Once the cake has cooled, spread the buttercream over the top and garnish with additional chopped walnuts.
  7. Refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours to set the buttercream before serving.

This cake not only tastes exquisite but also supports local Australian producers, available at your nearest Wasteless Pantry. Enjoy this cake with a cup of Skybury Coffee for a truly Australian treat!

Supporting Local and Sustainable Practices:

Choosing to buy local and package-free has significant benefits for both our community and the environment. When you purchase local products like those from Wasteless Pantry, you’re supporting Western Australian producers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Additionally, opting for package-free goods minimizes waste, conserves resources, and reduces landfill contributions. By selecting local and package-free ingredients for recipes like our Gluten-Free Coffee, Date, and Walnut Cake, you’re making a conscious choice to promote sustainability and support the local economy. This approach not only fosters a healthier planet but also bolsters community growth and resilience.


Lemon Balm Cookies Recipe: A Refreshing Herbal Treat

Delight in the aromatic flavor of lemon balm with this simple and delicious Lemon Balm Cookies recipe. This recipe transforms dried lemon balm into a sweet treat perfect for tea time or a light dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm, finely crushed
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of one lemon (optional for extra lemony flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour, dried lemon balm, salt, and lemon zest if using, until the mixture comes together into a smooth dough.
  4. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, place them on the prepared baking sheet, and slightly flatten them with the back of a spoon or fork.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
  6. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Tips:

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. They should last for up to a week.

Benefits of Lemon Balm:

Not only does lemon balm add a delightful flavor to these cookies, but it’s also known for its calming properties, making these cookies a perfect treat to relax with alongside your favorite cup of tea.

Sustainable Shopping at Wasteless Pantry:

When preparing to bake these delightful Lemon Balm Cookies, consider sourcing your ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, where you can purchase essentials like flour, sugar, honey and dried lemon balm in plastic-free packaging. Shopping at Wasteless Pantry not only allows you to reduce your environmental footprint but also supports sustainable practices by minimizing unnecessary packaging waste. This way, you can enjoy your baking experience knowing you are making a positive impact on the planet.

Enjoy baking these aromatic Lemon Balm Cookies, which are sure to impress with their unique flavor and herbal notes!


DIY Ant Bait Recipes

Dealing with ants can be frustrating, but resorting to harsh chemicals is unnecessary. At Wasteless Pantry, we advocate for sustainable and safe solutions to everyday problems. Here are two DIY ant bait recipes using common household ingredients that are effective and environmentally friendly.

1. Borax and Sugar Ant Bait This method uses borax, a naturally occurring mineral that disrupts the digestive system of ants, leading to their elimination. Here’s how to make it:

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 part borax
    • 1 part sugar
    • Water (just enough to form a paste)
  • Instructions:
    • Mix the borax and sugar together in a bowl.
    • Add a small amount of water to create a paste.
    • Place the paste into a small container with a lid. Puncture a few holes in the lid large enough for ants to enter.
    • Position the container near observed ant trails or entry points.
    • Allow two to three days for the mixture to affect the ant population.

2. Bicarb Soda and Sugar Mix A simpler yet effective bait can be made with bicarb soda and sugar. Bicarb soda, when ingested by ants, causes internal disruptions leading to their demise.

  • Ingredients:
    • Equal parts bicarb soda and fine sugar
  • Instructions:
    • Combine the bicarb soda and sugar thoroughly.
    • Sprinkle the mixture along ant trails, near entry points, or in areas of high ant activity.

Both these remedies are excellent for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while dealing with pests. These solutions allow you to use up excess pantry items effectively, emphasizing Wasteless Pantry’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting a healthier living environment.

Remember, consistent application and patience are key with natural remedies. Also, consider sealing entry points and keeping your space clean to prevent further infestations. By choosing these eco-friendly methods, you not only tackle your ant problem but also contribute to a sustainable planet.

Wasteless Pantry is your go-to resource for all the necessary ingredients for those looking to create these eco-friendly ant remedies at home. We offer a wide range of bulk products, including borax and bicarb soda, which you can purchase in just the right quantities to avoid excess and waste. Shopping at Wasteless Pantry not only supports your green lifestyle but also contributes to a community-focused environment that prioritizes sustainability and waste reduction. Come visit us and take a step towards a more sustainable home!


Writing Instrument Recycling

At Wasteless Pantry Mundaring, we’re committed to sustainability through our partnership with TerraCycle’s Writing Instruments Recycling Program. This initiative offers a responsible way to recycle used writing instruments, which helps reduce landfill waste significantly.

Recycling Process: The collected items are processed by TerraCycle, where plastics and metals are separated and recycled into new products. This process helps conserve resources and minimizes environmental impact.

What Can Be Recycled:

  • Pens and pen caps
  • Mechanical pencils
  • Markers and marker caps
  • Permanent markers
  • Highlighters

Exclusions: Items not accepted include glue sticks, erasers, wooden pencils, and cutting objects. Please do not include outer cardboard packaging in this collection, as it can be recycled through your local council’s recycling program.

Collection Points: You can drop off eligible items at Wasteless Pantry Mundaring or any Officeworks location. This makes it convenient to participate in the program wherever you are located.

Preparation for Recycling: There is no need to clean the packaging before recycling, but please remove as much of the remaining product as possible to ensure smooth processing.

Why Recycle Writing Instruments? Recycling writing instruments not only helps in decluttering but also contributes significantly to environmental sustainability. By participating in this program, you’re taking an active role in reducing waste and supporting the transition to a circular economy.

Visit us at Wasteless Pantry Mundaring or your nearest Officeworks to recycle your writing instruments. Together, we can make a substantial impact on preserving the environment for future generations. For more details on what can be recycled, visit TerraCycle’s Writing Instruments Recycling Program.

Enhancing Sustainability in Writing Practices:

To increase sustainability in your writing habits, consider adopting several eco-friendly practices:

  1. Choose Recycled Paper Products: Opt for recycled or FSC-certified paper to ensure your writing materials come from sustainable sources.
  2. Use Refillable Pens: Invest in pens that can be refilled rather than disposed of after use. This reduces waste and can be more cost-effective over time.
  3. Digital Documentation: Whenever possible, use digital platforms for note-taking and document creation to reduce paper use.

These simple changes can significantly impact your environmental footprint, making your writing habits more sustainable and beneficial for the planet.


Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Here’s a delectable Chocolate Chip Banana Bread recipe, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while incorporating some healthier ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • ⅓ cup (75 grams) of melted coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, or high-quality vegetable oil
  • ½ cup (168 grams) honey or maple syrup
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup (225 grams) mashed ripe bananas (about 2 ½ medium bananas)
  • ¼ cup (56 grams) milk of choice or water
  • 1 teaspoon bicarb soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for topping
  • 1 ¾ cups (220 grams) plain flour or wholemeal flour
  • ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 165 degrees Celsius and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil and honey. Add eggs and beat well, then incorporate the mashed bananas and milk.
  3. Add the baking soda, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon, mixing thoroughly. Stir in the flour just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with additional cinnamon, and create a swirl pattern with a knife.
  5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Tips: Store the banana bread at room temperature for up to three days, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months for longer preservation. Consider slicing the bread before freezing for easy, single servings.

Benefits of Ingredients:

  • Bananas: High in potassium and natural sugars for energy.
  • Wholemeal Flour: Richer in nutrients and fibre than refined flours.
  • Coconut Oil: A healthier fat that adds moisture and subtle flavor.

Choosing ingredients from a package-free grocery store like Wasteless Pantry helps reduce environmental impact by minimizing packaging waste and supporting sustainable practices. Enjoy this wholesome treat that’s as good for you as it is for the planet!

For more inspiring recipes, check out our blog.


Homemade Bicarb Dough Ornaments

DIY Bicarb Dough Ornaments

Get creative this holiday season with homemade bicarb dough ornaments! This simple recipe is perfect for a fun family crafting session and produces beautiful, eco-friendly decorations.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 5 oz water

Instructions:

  1. Mix Ingredients: Combine the baking soda, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to thicken and forms a dough-like consistency.
  2. Cool and Shape: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once manageable, knead it on a surface dusted with cornstarch. Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
  3. Dry: Allow the ornaments to air dry for 48 hours, turning occasionally. Ensure they dry slowly to avoid cracking.
  4. Decorate: Once fully dried, decorate with markers, paint, or natural craft materials. For a festive touch, add fabric scraps as ties to hang on the tree.

Customization Tips:

  • Add Color: Mix food coloring into the dough to create different colors.
  • Add Scent: Incorporate a few drops of essential oils or spices like cinnamon for a festive scent.

Storage and Disposal:

To ensure the longevity of your bicarb dough ornaments, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you used natural dyes or materials that might degrade over time, consider wrapping the ornaments in tissue paper or placing them in a box with dividers to prevent color transfer and physical damage. When it comes to disposal, since these ornaments are made from non-toxic, biodegradable materials, they can be composted at the end of their life cycle, returning their components back to the earth and minimizing waste.

Environmental Impact of DIY Ornaments: Creating your own ornaments significantly reduces waste associated with commercial holiday decorations, which often come in excessive plastic packaging. By using natural ingredients and avoiding synthetic materials, you make a positive impact on the environment.

Benefits of Shopping at Wasteless Pantry: Purchasing your DIY ornament materials from Wasteless Pantry ensures you’re using high-quality, sustainable products. The store specializes in bulk ingredients without unnecessary packaging, supporting your eco-friendly lifestyle.

Enjoy making these charming ornaments that not only beautify your home but also protect the planet!


DIY Peppermint Body Butter Recipe

Here’s a fresh take on making your own Peppermint Body Butter, a perfect blend for nourishing and revitalizing your skin. This all-natural recipe leverages the quality ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, a package-free grocery store dedicated to reducing environmental impact.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup of cocoa butter
  • ½ cup of coconut oil
  • 20-40 drops of peppermint essential oil, based on personal preference

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cocoa butter and coconut oil until well-blended.
  2. Add Fragrance: Gradually mix in the peppermint essential oil, tailoring the amount to suit your scent strength preference.
  3. Whip to Perfection: Periodically pause mixing to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Continue whipping the mixture for about 8 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
  4. Storage: Transfer the whipped body butter into a glass jar to maintain freshness.

Benefits of Ingredients:

  • Cocoa Butter: Moisturizes deeply and improves skin elasticity.
  • Coconut Oil: Hydrates the skin and can help soothe inflammation.
  • Peppermint Essential Oil: Provides a cooling sensation and can help invigorate the senses.

The skincare industry is notorious for its extensive use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in packaging. This practice contributes significantly to environmental pollution and landfill waste. By choosing products like DIY peppermint body butter and sourcing ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, consumers can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Wasteless Pantry’s commitment to package-free shopping not only helps in cutting down individual waste but also promotes a broader movement towards sustainability in daily routines, making a positive impact on our planet.

Enjoy this homemade peppermint body butter, knowing you’re taking a step towards more sustainable living with every application.


Creamy Pumpkin and Cashew Vegeroni Recipe

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of pumpkin and cashew with this delightful vegeroni recipe, a perfect meal for any occasion. Made almost entirely with ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked in 3 cups water
  • Water from soaked cashews
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Umami (blend of blitzed shiitake mushrooms, garlic powder, onion powder, cracked pepper, and salt)
  • Several heaped tablespoons of nutritional yeast (nutch)
  • A handful of roasted pumpkin
  • Vegeroni pasta
  • Parsley flakes for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Blitz the soaked cashews with their soaking water, turmeric, mustard powder, Garlic Umami, and nutritional yeast until smooth. Add the roasted pumpkin and continue to blitz until the mixture is creamy.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the vegeroni pasta according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water.
  3. Combine: If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Serve: Garnish with parsley flakes for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Benefits of Each Ingredient:

  • Cashews: Provide a creamy texture and are a great source of healthy fats and proteins.
  • Turmeric and Mustard Powder: Offer anti-inflammatory properties and a depth of flavor.
  • Garlic Umami: Enhances the savory notes of the dish.
  • Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor while being rich in vitamins, particularly B-complex.

Why Shop at Wasteless Pantry: Shopping at Wasteless Pantry ensures you are getting quality ingredients while supporting sustainable practices. The bulk buying option reduces packaging waste and helps you tailor your purchases to your exact needs, minimizing food waste.

This pumpkin and cashew vegeroni is not just a testament to the versatility of vegan cooking but also highlights how delicious and fulfilling plant-based meals can be.


Gluten-Free Christmas Cake Recipe

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a festive, homemade Gluten-Free Christmas cake recipe! For those following a gluten-free diet, this gluten-free Christmas cake is a delightful way to enjoy the season without compromise. Made with a gluten-free banana bread mix, a generous amount of mixed fruit, and a touch of brandy or orange juice, this cake is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any holiday gathering.

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for both experienced bakers and beginners. Plus, you can find all the essential ingredients, including the gluten-free banana bread mix and dried fruits, right here at Wasteless Pantry, ensuring a zero-waste approach to your holiday baking.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg mixed fruit (soaked in 6 tbsp of brandy or orange juice overnight)
  • 500 g Gluten-Free Banana Bread Mix
  • 2 tsp mixed spice
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup oil
  • 100 ml water
  • Optional: glace cherries and blanched almonds for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free banana bread mix, mixed spice, eggs, oil, and water. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  2. Add the Soaked Fruit: Gently fold in the soaked mixed fruit, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. The brandy or orange juice adds a subtle depth of flavor to the cake, making it extra special for the holidays.
  3. Prepare the Cake Tin: Line a cake tin with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly. If desired, decorate the top with glace cherries and blanched almonds for a festive touch.
  4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Bake the cake for 2 hours. If you prefer a lighter-colored cake, cover it with foil for the first hour. This will prevent the top from browning too quickly.
  5. Cool and Store: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin before transferring it to an airtight container. This cake stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and let the flavors develop even more as it sits.

Benefits of Buying Ingredients at Wasteless Pantry

At Wasteless Pantry, we’re all about helping you enjoy delicious food with minimal waste. By bringing your own containers and shopping with us, you reduce packaging waste while supporting a more sustainable lifestyle. Our selection of gluten-free and bulk ingredients means you can buy just the amount you need, whether it’s the banana bread mix, dried fruits, or spices. Plus, you’ll have access to high-quality, ethically sourced products that you can feel good about using in your holiday baking.

Enjoy Your Festive Gluten-Free Treat!

This gluten-free Christmas cake is a wonderful addition to your holiday table. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and you won’t have to worry about anyone missing out on a classic seasonal treat. Bake it ahead of time, decorate it to your liking, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) with your favorite cup of tea.

Happy holidays from all of us at Wasteless Pantry! Let us know how your cake turns out in the comments below, or tag us on social media with your festive creations.


Gluten Free Seed Bread Loaf Recipe

Here’s a fantastic Gluten-Free Seed Bread Loaf recipe that’s perfect for a nutritious, hearty bread. It’s packed with seeds and made using simple gluten-free ingredients that you can find at Wasteless Pantry, where you can refill your containers to avoid packaging waste.

Gluten-Free Seed Bread Loaf Recipe (using a 500g loaf tin)

Ingredients:

  • 350g gluten-free crusty bread mix
  • 40g brown rice flour
  • 315ml lukewarm water (+/- 20ml, adjust as needed)
  • 2 heaped tsp dried yeast
  • 2 tsp chia seeds
  • 4 tsp ground flaxseed
  • 20g pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
  • 15g sunflower seeds
  • 1/3 tsp salt
  • 3 tsp (15ml) vegetable oil

Method:

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
    Using a flat digital scale, place your mixing bowl on it and zero the scale. Measure out all your ingredients directly into the bowl.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    In the mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free crusty bread mix, brown rice flour, chia seeds, ground flaxseed, pepitas, sunflower seeds, yeast, and salt. Stir in the lukewarm water and vegetable oil. Start mixing gently with a knife, and add a little extra water if needed to bring the dough together.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface (use brown rice flour to prevent sticking). Knead the dough for about 3 minutes. The dough will be sticky, so flour your hands and the work surface lightly as needed.
    • For a mixer: Mix on low speed for 1 minute, scrape down the sides, and mix for another 3 minutes on medium speed.
  4. Shape and Rise:
    Form the dough into a loaf shape and place it into an oiled 500g loaf tin. Use a sharp knife to slash the top of the dough to allow for rising. Cover with a silicone baking sheet or a damp cloth.
  5. Let It Rise:
    Place the loaf in a warm spot (around 35°C) for about 1 hour to rise. The dough won’t rise much in the oven, so make sure it rises enough before baking. A sunny car or a warm room works well for this.
  6. Bake:
    Preheat your oven to 220°C. Bake the loaf for 30 minutes, then remove it from the tin and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  7. Cool Before Slicing:
    Allow the loaf to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to avoid the bread becoming sticky.
  8. Storage:
    If you’re not consuming the loaf within two days, slice it and store it in the freezer in a bread bag. Thin slices are perfect since this loaf is quite dense and substantial.

Benefits of Buying Ingredients at Wasteless Pantry:

At Wasteless Pantry, you can source your chia seeds, flaxseeds, gluten-free bread mix, and all the other ingredients for this recipe without the need for unnecessary packaging. By bringing your own containers and purchasing in bulk, you not only reduce plastic waste but also ensure that you’re supporting sustainable, eco-friendly practices. Shopping at Wasteless Pantry means you buy only what you need, helping to prevent food waste and live a more zero-waste lifestyle.