13 Easy Edible Homemade Gifts to Make This Year
Stepfanie Romine
Stepfanie Romine
Stepfanie Romine is a journalist turned ACE-certified health coach, yoga teacher, and freelance writer who lives in the mountains of North Carolina. When she’s not writing about health and wellness or developing recipes, Stepfanie loves trail running, hiking, and yoga — and exploring all the food and health trends Asheville has to offer. She has co-authored and contributed to several books about healthy living, and her most recent is “The No Meat Athlete Cookbook.” Find more from Stepfanie on her blog, The Flexible Kitchen, or on Facebook or Instagram.
If your holiday budget just won’t allow for Snow White Dutch ovens, Dolce and Gabbana pasta, or breakfast at Tiffany's (because really, whose will?), consider giving a homemade edible gift this year. Sharing food is a thoughtful way to show your love and appreciation — and DIY gifts are easy on the wallet too. We’ve rounded up presents that are simple enough for even cooking novices, and are things your loved ones will actually want to use!
Hot Sauce: For the one in your life who likes it H-O-T, make a batch of hot sauce. Warm their heart with a specialty blend. (via Chili Pepper Madness)
Chai Mix: This chai tea mix is bursting with spices — and nothing else. Whip up a batch for your favorite tea drinker, then gift it along with a lovely new mug. (via Simply Scratch)
Cookie Mix: Too good not to share, this decadent oatmeal cookie mix contains chocolate, peanut butter, and white chocolate chips. Share a sneak peek of the deliciousness to come by pairing each jar with a batch of freshly baked cookies. (via Well Plated)
Homemade Crackers: Homemade crackers elevate any cheese plate. Customize these with your favorite blend of herbs and spices. (via The Beach House Kitchen)
Spice Mixes: Knowing which herbs and spices work well together can be a challenge. Help out someone who's new to cooking by gifting one or more custom ideas. There are recipes for Cajun, Italian, and Moroccan seasonings and more, so you're sure to find one that suits your loved one's palate. (via Gringalicious)
Black Elderberry Syrup: Give a gift that tastes great and helps keep the recipient healthy to boot. This syrup is delicious on yogurt, in tea, or with Champagne! (via Yum Universe)
Hot Chocolate Mix: A jar of homemade hot chocolate mix is a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Creamy and delicious, this gift is the ultimate wintertime comfort. Customize yours by swapping the candy canes for orange zest, cinnamon, or dried ginger. (via Love Grows Wild)
Honey Caramels: Sweet and salty homemade honey caramels practically melt in your mouth. Your loved ones will be begging you to make these luscious bites every holiday season. Tip: Don't forget the flaky salt on top. Splurge on a good French salt like Maldon. (via Natural Chow)
Vanilla Extract: We may have to stop using "vanilla" as a synonym for plain. This vanilla extract is anything but basic, and anyone who tries it will never want to use store-bought again. It's a simple gift that makes a big difference in the kitchen. (via The Muffin Myth)
Salt Blends: Flavored salts are versatile enough that even non-cooks will find them useful. Your friend can sprinkle the salt blends on air-popped popcorn, use them to jazz up ho-hum steamed vegetables or rice, or mix with unsalted butter and serve with good bread — the options are endless! Tip: If you have any herbs that are still hanging on in your garden or on your windowsill, harvest them for an extra special edible gift. (via Love and Olive Oil)
DIY Nutella: Smooth, rich, and oh-so-chocolatey, this homemade Nutella should be gifted alongside a cute spreader or spoon. It goes without saying that yours will be their favorite present this year. (via Brown-Eyed Baker)
Limoncello: Limoncello bursts with fresh citrus flavor. Use organic citrus, since you'll be using the zest and peel in the recipe. For the finishing touch, pair with two tiny glasses. (via Love and Olive Oil)
Chocolate Bark: This Mexican chocolate bark is sweet and spicy, with cinnamon and cayenne, crunchy pepitas, and flaky sea salt. It's one of the easiest candies you'll ever make — it requires just six ingredients and 10 minutes! (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)
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Stepfanie Romine
Stepfanie Romine is a journalist turned ACE-certified health coach, yoga teacher, and freelance writer who lives in the mountains of North Carolina. When she’s not writing about health and wellness or developing recipes, Stepfanie loves trail running, hiking, and yoga — and exploring all the food and health trends Asheville has to offer. She has co-authored and contributed to several books about healthy living, and her most recent is “The No Meat Athlete Cookbook.” Find more from Stepfanie on her blog, The Flexible Kitchen, or on Facebook or Instagram.