If you're running out of unique gift ideas for that friend or relative who has everything, why not give gourmet food gift baskets that you made yourself? Taking the time to craft a special recipe or assemble a collection of favorite snacks is a great way to show you care. A few simple tips will help you find the most direct path to the heart --through the stomach!
If you know your way around the kitchen, consider baking fresh cookies, cakes, or breads. Tailor the gifts to each recipient for a personal touch. For example, if you have a coworker who is proud of her Irish heritage, bake a loaf of Irish soda bread, wrap it in plastic, and finish it off with a green ribbon. Young children will be delighted with letter-shaped sugar cookies that spell out their names. Add a few other elements that extend the theme, pick up a basket, pail or other fun container, and you are set.
Make your food gifts a tradition by establishing a signature recipe. If you've had success with rum balls in the past, tweak the recipe slightly to make it your own, and then bring plenty of rum balls to family and workplace gatherings. Before long, everyone will look forward to "Anne's Special Rum Balls." (It's up to you whether you choose to share the recipe or keep your secret to yourself!)
Pair up with a friend to make "partnered" food gifts. Think of a natural combination, like raisin bread with homemade canned jam, or pumpernickel bread with spinach-and-artichoke dip. The division of labor will save you time and effort while allowing you to present a complete and impressive gift in a single package. Don't be surprised if the recipient exclaims, "You thought of everything!"
Even if you aren't a whiz in the kitchen, it's easy to create food gift baskets out of pre-packaged food and drinks. Do you know any coffee lovers? They will definitely appreciate a coffee-themed gift basket. Fill the basket with a few single-serving varieties of gourmet coffee, chocolate-dipped spoons, biscotti (homemade or store-bought), and a container of flavored creamer.
Various types of food gift baskets can be created without much effort by considering the recipient's hobbies, age, and dietary preferences. A retiree who always drinks tea while reading the morning paper would love a tea basket filled with biscuits, packaged teas, and a bottle of honey. A college student would welcome a basket stuffed with small bags of chips, granola bars, fresh fruit, and other easy-to-grab snacks.
So when you're racking your brain for a special gift for that special person, remember: Everyone eats! Giving homemade food gifts ensures that a present from you is always in "good taste"!
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