If you’ve ever tried to remove a sticky label from a jar, you’ll know exactly how frustrating it can be.

You peel the label off… and you’re left with that stubborn, sticky residue that just won’t budge.

That’s where products like Goo Gone come in.

They work beautifully—but here in Australia, they can be quite expensive for what is essentially a citrus-based cleaner.

So of course… we MOO it.

This homemade version is simple, effective, and made from ingredients you probably already have at home.

Why Make Your Own Goo Gone?
This is one of those everyday products that quietly costs more than it should.

A Simple Swap That Saves Money
Instead of buying a specialised cleaner, you can make your own for a fraction of the cost and it works just as well.

MOO Goo Gone:
*Costs very little to make
*Uses simple pantry ingredients
*Is effective on a wide range of surfaces
*Doubles as a gentle cleaner
It’s a small swap—but like all MOO habits, it adds up over time.

What Is MOO Goo Gone?
The original Goo Gone is a citrus-based liquid designed to dissolve sticky residues.

This MOO version is:
*Citrus-based
*A soft paste
*Gentle but effective
It lifts sticky residue without scratching surfaces—so you can use it with confidence.

What Can You Use It On?
This is where it really shines.
Use it on:
*Glass jars (perfect for pantry storage)
*Bottles and containers
*Tumblers
*Plates and hard surfaces
*Sticky price labels
*Even tar spots on cars
It’s incredibly versatile—and once you have a jar of it, you’ll reach for it often.

MOO Goo Gone
Ingredients
You only need three simple ingredients:
• ½ cup bicarbonate soda 
• ¼ cup oil* 
• 20 drops orange essential oil 
*Use whatever oil you have on hand—vegetable oil works perfectly.

How to Make MOO Goo Gone
This couldn’t be easier.
Step-by-Step Method
1. Place bicarbonate soda in a small jar. 
2. Add oil and orange essential oil. 
3. Mix well until a smooth paste forms. 
That’s it—you’re done.

How to Use MOO Goo Gone
Simple and effective:
1. Dab a soft cloth into the paste 
2. Gently rub onto the sticky residue 
3. Use a circular motion. Depending on how stubborn the residue is, it may take a few seconds—but it will work.
4. Wash the item in warm, soapy water 
And just like that… the goo is gone.

This makes a small batch. If you want a bigger batch, or have lots of sticky stuff to remove, simply make more following the ratio of 2 parts bicarb to 1 part oil, adjusting the essential oil accordingly (and you can leave this out, you'll just need to gently scrub a little longer).

Why This Works So Well
This little combination is surprisingly powerful:
• Bicarb soda = gentle scrubbing action 
• Oil = breaks down sticky residue 
• Citrus oil = helps dissolve adhesive 
Together, they lift and remove residue without damaging the surface.

Tips for Best Results
• Use a soft cloth (not abrasive) 
• Don’t rush—gentle rubbing works best 
• Test on a small area if unsure 
• Always wash after use to remove oil residue 

How This Recipe Saves You Money
This is classic Cheapskates thinking.
Instead of:
❌ Buying expensive specialty cleaners
❌ Replacing jars because they look messy

You:
✔ Make your own cleaner for cents
✔ Reuse jars and containers
✔ Reduce waste

And suddenly, something small becomes a meaningful saving.

There’s something about homemade fudge that feels a little bit special.

It’s sweet, colourful, easy to make—and always disappears far quicker than you expect.

This Easter Bunny Fudge is one of those recipes that looks beautiful on a plate, makes a lovely gift, and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

And while it’s ideal for Easter… don’t let that limit you.

This is a MOO recipe you’ll come back to all year round for celebrations, gatherings, and those moments when you want something simple but a little bit special.

Why Make Your Own Fudge?
Store-bought sweets can be expensive—especially seasonal treats.

Making your own is not only more affordable, it’s more flexible and often more enjoyable too.

A Simple MOO Treat That Saves Money
Instead of buying pre-made Easter goodies, you can create your own for a fraction of the cost.

Homemade fudge:
✔ Uses just a few ingredients
✔ Makes a generous batch
✔ Can be customised to suit any occasion
✔ Is perfect for gifting

And like all MOO recipes, it’s about creating something lovely without overspending.

Easter Bunny Fudge
Ingredients
This recipe is wonderfully simple:
200g block white chocolate 
1 tin condensed milk (or MOO your own!) 
200g mini pink & white marshmallows 
1 packet mini chocolate crackle eggs 
You can easily swap brands depending on what’s on special, making this a very adaptable recipe for your grocery budget.

How to Make Easter Bunny Fudge
This is a no-bake recipe, which makes it quick and easy—perfect for busy days.

Step-by-Step Method
1. Line a 20cm square cake tin with foil or baking paper.
(If using baking paper, clip the sides if needed.) 
2. Melt the white chocolate and condensed milk together, stirring until smooth. 
3. While melting, break the crackle eggs into small pieces (about the size of marshmallows). 
4. Once melted, quickly stir in marshmallows and crackle eggs.
(Work quickly so they don’t melt.) 
5. Pour mixture into prepared tin and smooth the top. 
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. 
7. Cut into small squares and serve. 

Tips for Perfect Fudge Every Time
• Work quickly once everything is melted 
• Don’t overheat the chocolate—gentle melting is best 
• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts 
• Store in the fridge, especially in warm weather 

Perfect for Gifts, Sharing & Celebrations
This fudge isn’t just delicious—it’s beautiful too.

It’s perfect for:
🎁 Homemade gifts
🐣 Easter celebrations
☕ Afternoon tea treats
🎉 Parties and get-togethers
Pop it into a pretty box or wrap it in cellophane, and you have a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift.

Make It Your Own (MOO Variations)
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can change it:
• Swap white chocolate for milk or dark 
• Use different lollies or add-ins 
• Add nuts or dried fruit 
• Change colours for different occasions: Christmas, birthdays, baby showers—this recipe works for all of them.

How This Recipe Helps Cut Costs
Seasonal treats are one of those sneaky budget areas.

A few packets here, a few treats there—and suddenly it adds up.

This is where MOO makes a real difference:
💗 One batch replaces multiple purchases
💗 You control the cost and quantity
💗 You avoid impulse spending
And you still get something that feels special.

As summer winds down and the weather begins to cool, something interesting happens in the garden.

Those last tomatoes… just sit there.

Still green. Still firm. Not quite ready to ripen.

Some years are abundant, some are not—but almost every gardener ends up with green tomatoes at the end of the season.

And instead of letting them go to waste, this is your moment to MOO.

Because those little green tomatoes?

They make a delicious, tangy pickle that will carry your harvest right through the months ahead.

Why Pickle Green Tomatoes?
Pickling is one of the simplest and most satisfying ways to preserve food—and it fits perfectly with the Cheapskates way.

Turn “Almost Ready” into Something Valuable
Green tomatoes might feel like a disappointment at first, but they’re actually an opportunity.
Instead of losing them to the weather, you’re turning them into:
✔ A pantry staple
✔ A flavour-packed side
✔ A homemade alternative to store-bought condiments

A Classic, Frugal Kitchen Skill
This is old-fashioned kitchen wisdom at its best—using what you have, when you have it, and making it last.

And once you start pickling, you’ll find yourself looking at other foods the same way.

What Do Pickled Green Tomatoes Taste Like?
If you haven’t tried them before, you’re in for a treat.

They’re:
✨ Tangy
✨ Slightly salty
✨ Firm with a satisfying bite

Perfect alongside:
• Roast meats 
• Barbecued chicken 
• Potato salad 
• Sandwiches 
• Cheese boards 

They add that little “something extra” that makes simple meals feel special.

Pickled Green Tomatoes Ingredients
This is a small batch recipe, making around 3 pint jars.
1kg small green tomatoes 
2 tablespoons canning salt 
1¾ cups vinegar 
1¾ cups water 
1 clove garlic per jar 
2 teaspoons dill seed per jar 
2 bay leaves per jar 
Most of these are pantry staples, making this an affordable way to preserve your harvest without needing anything fancy.

 How to Make Pickled Green Tomatoes 
Take your time with this process—it’s simple, just methodical.

Step-by-Step Method
1. Wash jars and lids in hot water and keep warm. 
2. Wash tomatoes. 
○ Small tomatoes: cut in half 
○ Larger tomatoes: cut into quarters 
○ Cherry tomatoes: leave whole 
3. Add garlic, dill seed, and bay leaves to each jar. 
4. Pack jars tightly with tomatoes, leaving ½ inch headspace. 
5. In a stockpot, combine vinegar, water, and salt.
Bring to the boil and keep hot. 
6. Carefully pour hot brine into hot jars, maintaining ½ inch headspace. 
7. Remove air bubbles using a chopstick or spatula. 
8. Wipe jar rims clean and secure lids (finger tight). 
9. Place jars into canner and process for 15 minutes once boiling (or once steam canner reaches temperature). 
10. Remove jars carefully and place on a towel to cool. 

The Best Part… The “Ping”
As the jars cool, you’ll start to hear it…
Ping… ping… ping…

That lovely little sound means your jars are sealing properly.

It’s one of the most satisfying sounds in a frugal kitchen.

Storing Your Pickled Tomatoes
The next day:
• Check seals 
• Remove outer rings 
• Wipe jars clean 
• Label with contents and date 
Store in your pantry until ready to use.
If any jars haven’t sealed, simply pop them in the fridge and use them first.

Why This Recipe Saves Money
This is MOO at its finest—turning something you might have wasted into something valuable.

Instead of:
❌ Throwing away green tomatoes
❌ Buying jars of pickles or condiments

You’re:
✔ Using what you already have
✔ Creating multiple jars for the pantry
✔ Reducing future grocery spending
And that’s how small, simple habits turn into real savings.

Build Your Pantry, One Jar at a Time
Recipes like this don’t just save money—they build security.

Each jar on your shelf is:
💗 A meal enhancer ready to go
💗 A reminder of what you can do yourself
💗 A step towards a well-stocked, calm pantry
You don’t need to do everything at once.
Just start with one recipe.
One batch.
One jar.

​Remember that light, crunchy, golden honeycomb that melts in your mouth?

You can make it yourself… and it’s so easy 💗

Just a few simple ingredients, one saucepan, and a little bit of kitchen magic—and suddenly you’ve got that classic sweet treat ready to snap into pieces.

No need to buy bags of it at the shops.

No fancy equipment.

Just good old-fashioned MOO.

✨ Crunchy
✨ Sweet
✨ Perfect for sharing (or not 😉)

Pop it into lunchboxes, crumble it over desserts, or dip pieces in melted chocolate for an extra special treat.
This is one of those recipes that reminds us how simple—and fun—it can be to make our own.

Why Make Your Own Honeycomb?
Honeycomb is one of those treats that seems tricky—but it’s actually surprisingly easy.
A Simple MOO Swap That Saves Money
Store-bought honeycomb (or chocolate-coated versions) can be quite pricey for what is essentially sugar and syrup.
When you make it yourself:
✔ You spend just a fraction of the cost
✔ You control the ingredients
✔ You can make larger batches for less
And like all MOO recipes, those small savings add up over time.
Old-Fashioned Treat, Modern Savings
This is a classic recipe that’s stood the test of time—simple ingredients, simple method, and reliable results.

Honeycomb Ingredients
You only need four basic ingredients:
• 2/3 cup sugar 
• 4 tablespoons golden syrup 
• 1 tablespoon water 
• 2 teaspoons bicarb soda, sifted 

Everything in this recipe is easy to keep in your pantry, making it a perfect “make anytime” treat without an extra trip to the shops.

How to Make Honeycomb at Home
This is where the magic happens—watching the mixture bubble and transform.

1. Lightly grease a lamington tin (do this first—it sets quickly). 
2. Place sugar, golden syrup, and water into a large saucepan. 
3. Stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. 
4. Bring to the boil and cook for 6–7 minutes.
(Don’t overcook or it may taste bitter.) 
5. Remove from heat and quickly add the sifted bicarb soda. 
6. Stir rapidly—the mixture will foam up. 
7. Immediately pour into the prepared tin. 
8. Do not move the tin while it sets. 
9. While still warm, lightly mark portions. 
10. Once completely cool, break into pieces. 

Tips for Perfect Honeycomb Every Time
• Use a large saucepan—the mixture expands quickly 
• Work quickly once you add the bicarb 
• Don’t stir too long after adding bicarb—just enough to combine 
• Leave it completely still while setting 
• Avoid overcooking to prevent a burnt taste 

Ways to Use MOO Honeycomb
This delicious treat can be used in so many ways:
✔ Eat as is (the classic way!)
✔ Crumble over ice cream
✔ Add to desserts or slices
✔ Dip pieces in melted chocolate
✔ Package into jars or bags for gifts
It’s simple, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.

How This Recipe Helps Cut Grocery Costs
This is exactly what MOO Month is about—learning to replace store-bought items with simple homemade versions.
When you start making treats like this yourself:
💗 You reduce impulse buys
💗 You spend less on packaged snacks
💗 You build a pantry that works for you
And best of all—it doesn’t feel restrictive. It feels rewarding.

​👉 Have you ever made honeycomb before? Or is this your first try?

​Soft, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows… made right in your own kitchen 💗

This is one of those MOO recipes that feels a little bit magical.

A few simple ingredients… a bit of mixing… and suddenly you’ve got a tray of homemade marshmallow ready to slice and enjoy.

No packets.

No preservatives.

Just sweet, simple goodness.

And if you’ve never made marshmallow before, don’t worry—this one is surprisingly easy (and a lot of fun!).

✨ Add a hint of vanilla
✨ Tint them soft pink for something special
✨ Cut into squares for lunchboxes or gifts

They’re perfect for:
✔ Afternoon treats
✔ Homemade gifts
✔ Hot chocolate toppers (yes please!)

This is MOO at its best—taking something you’d usually buy and turning it into something homemade, affordable, and just a little bit special.

​Why Make Your Own Marshmallows?
Making your own marshmallows is a classic example of how MOOing turns everyday items into affordable, homemade staples.

A Simple Swap That Saves Money
Pre-packaged marshmallows might seem inexpensive, but like many convenience foods, you’re paying for packaging, branding, and preservatives.

MOO marshmallows:
✔ Cost less per batch
✔ Use simple ingredients
✔ Taste fresher and softer
✔ Can be customised to suit your family
It’s a small change—but like all MOO habits, it adds up over time.

Better Than Store-Bought
These marshmallows are softer, fluffier, and far more enjoyable than the ones in a bag. Once you try them, you’ll notice the difference straight away.

Easy Marshmallow 
Ingredients
You only need a handful of pantry basics:
1 tablespoon gelatine 
1 cup caster sugar 
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
Red food colouring (optional) 

Everything in this recipe is easy to keep on hand, making it a great “anytime” treat without a special shop.

How to Make Marshmallows from Scratch
This method is straightforward—and quite fun to watch as it transforms.

Step-by-Step Method
1. In a microwave-safe jug, combine gelatine with ¼ cup cold water using a fork. 
2. Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds, then stir until the mixture is clear. 
3. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes. 
4. Using an electric mixer, beat sugar and ⅓ cup water on high speed for 5 minutes until thick and white. 
5. With the mixer running, slowly pour in the gelatine mixture in a thin, steady stream. 
6. Continue beating for 10 minutes until very thick. 
7. Add vanilla and a few drops of colouring (if using) to create a soft pink tone. 
8. Beat for another minute until well combined. 
9. Pour into a well-buttered lamington tray dusted with icing sugar. 
10. Smooth the top with a wet spatula. 
11. Cover and refrigerate until set. 

Tips for Perfect Marshmallows Every Time
• Make sure the gelatine is fully dissolved before adding 
• Beat long enough—the mixture should be very thick 
• Use a well-greased, well-dusted tray to prevent sticking 
• Use a wet knife when cutting for clean edges 

Ways to Use Homemade Marshmallows
These are incredibly versatile:
✔ Add to hot chocolate
✔ Pack into lunchboxes
✔ Gift in pretty jars or bags
✔ Toast over a fire for a special treat
✔ Cut into shapes for something fun
They also make beautiful homemade gifts—simple, thoughtful, and very affordable.

How This Recipe Helps Cut Grocery Costs
This is exactly what MOO Month is all about—learning to make simple things yourself instead of buying them.

When you replace even a few packaged items with homemade versions:
💗 You reduce your grocery spend
💗 You rely less on processed foods
💗 You build practical, everyday skills
And most importantly—you do it in a calm, manageable way.

​👉 Have you ever made marshmallow before, or is this your first time?

Comfort food for cents, not dollars

This is one of those classic MOO recipes that proves you don’t need a packet or a box to make something delicious, filling, and budget-friendly.

Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable, this homemade mac’n’cheese is a family favourite that costs just a fraction of the supermarket version — and tastes so much better.

Ingredients
250g elbow macaroni
60g butter
¼ cup plain flour
½ teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups milk
2 cups grated cheese

Method
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to the boil.
Cook macaroni until tender but still slightly firm (about 8 minutes). Drain. 
Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Slowly add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens and gently bubbles (about 5 minutes).
Stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.

Baked Mac’n’Cheese Option
For an extra-special (and slightly crispy) version:
Pour into a greased casserole dish
Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and dot with butter
Bake at 180°C for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling

Make It Go Further (Stretch Tip)
Double the pasta to 500g and mix through the same sauce.
It’s a simple way to feed more people for just a few extra cents.

Easy Add-Ins
Use what you have — this is perfect for using up odds and ends:
Diced ham
Cooked chicken
Peas or corn
Sliced hard-boiled eggs
Diced tomato
Grated zucchini or carrot

Cost: Approx. $3.60 per 800g
That’s just 45 cents per 100g — a big win for your grocery budget.

This is exactly what MOO Month is about — simple swaps that turn everyday meals into reliable, low-cost staples.

Once you start making dishes like this from scratch, those boxed versions quickly lose their appeal… and their place in your trolley.

Yesterday we made a MOO Cocoa Body Scrub, and this body butter is the perfect partner.

Rich, creamy and deeply moisturising, this homemade cocoa body butter leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished. And if you’re a chocolate lover, the fragrance makes it even more enjoyable to use.

It’s simple to make, uses just a few ingredients and costs far less than store-bought body butters.
It also makes a beautiful handmade gift for birthdays, Mother’s Day or to add to your spa hampers for Handmade Christmas.
​
Another lovely way to Make Our Own and enjoy everyday luxuries for less.

Ingredients
¼ cup shea butter
½ cup cocoa butter*
⅛ cup sweet almond oil
½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
8 drops sweet orange essential oil, or
¼ teaspoon cinnamon, or raspberry extract (optional)

Method
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the shea butter and cocoa butter together.
Remove from the heat and stir in the almond oil, vitamin E oil and optional fragrance.
Pour the mixture into a half-pint jar and allow it to cool and set.
Once set, secure the lid and it’s ready to use.

Note
Cocoa butter can be expensive. Copha can be substituted at a 1:1 ratio. It’s still moisturising and much more budget friendly.

A little homemade pampering — the Cheapskates way.
Small homemade swaps.
Big long-term savings.

This simple homemade cocoa body scrub is a gentle way to exfoliate and moisturise your skin — perfect as the weather begins to change at the end of summer.

And the fragrance? Well, who doesn’t love chocolate?

It smells rich, warm and luxurious — like a chocolaty treat for your skin.

This scrub is also a lovely handmade gift, perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or to add to your spa hampers for Handmade Christmas.
​
Another small MOO project that replaces an expensive store-bought product with something easy, natural and budget friendly.

Ingredients
½ cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
⅛ cup melted cocoa butter*
¼ cup sweet almond oil
Sweet orange essential oil, raspberry extract or cinnamon (optional)

Method
Melt the cocoa butter gently over low heat.
In a bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
Spoon the scrub into a half-pint mason jar or similar container.

Notes
Cocoa butter can be expensive. If needed, Copha can be substituted at a 1:1 ratio. It may create a slightly softer scrub, so you can adjust the sugar if needed.

A little homemade pampering, the Cheapskates way.
Small homemade swaps.
Big long-term savings.

Disposable disinfectant wipes are incredibly convenient — but they can also be expensive, and they create a lot of unnecessary waste.
​
Even though they’re not usually on my shopping list, they are handy to have around for quick clean-ups.

Think about how often wipes get used:
• Cleaning up spills
• Wiping sticky hands and faces
• Cleaning picnic tables
• Quick kitchen or bathroom wipe-downs
• Cleaning when soap and water aren’t available
That’s why MOO disinfectant wipes make so much sense. They’re quick to make, inexpensive and reusable.

Ingredients
1 cup water
¼ cup white vinegar
8 drops tea tree essential oil
8 drops eucalyptus essential oil
8 drops lemon essential oil

You will also need:
• An empty wipe container (a baby wipe container works well)
• 15–20 cloth squares
Old t-shirts, tea towels or cotton hankies work perfectly.

Method
Fold the cloth squares and place them inside the empty wipe container.
In a bowl, combine the water, vinegar and essential oils, stirring well.
Pour the mixture evenly over the cloths so they soak up the liquid.
The wipes are now ready to use.
Simply pull one out when needed.

Reuse Again and Again
After use, wash the cloths and return them to the container.
Add a fresh batch of the cleaning mixture and you’re ready to go again.

Another practical MOO swap that saves money, reduces waste and keeps everyday cleaning simple.
Small homemade swaps.
Big long-term savings.

BBQ seasoning blends are convenient, but they can be expensive and often contain fillers, preservatives and far more salt than you need.

Making your own smoky BBQ seasoning is quick, inexpensive and lets you control the flavour exactly how you like it.

This blend is smoky, savoury and perfect for everything from mince and chicken to slow-cooked meats and barbecue ribs.

Another simple way to Make Our Own and cross one more packet off the shopping list.

Ingredients
4 tablespoons smoked paprika
1½ tablespoons chilli powder*
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon red chilli flakes*
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1½ tablespoons dried minced onion
¾ teaspoon sugar

*Adjust the chilli to suit your taste. Use less if you prefer a milder seasoning, more if you like a bit more kick and spice.

Method
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Store the seasoning in an airtight jar or spice container.

How to Use
Use 1–2 teaspoons per 500g of:
• Mince
• Beef strips
• Diced chicken

It’s also excellent as a rub for barbecue meats, slow-cooked brisket or ribs.
Another easy MOO swap that adds big flavour while keeping grocery costs down.

Hint: This is perfect for a gourmet foodie hamper and can be made ahead for whatever occasion - it's especially nice at Christmastime for barbecue season.