Easy Homemade Food Gifts
simple recipes for heartfelt holiday giving
There is no better way to show your love and appreciation for someone than with a homemade food gift. It offers a much more personal touch than something store-bought, and it’s more economical. Despite what you may think, heartfelt homemade treats don’t have to be a big effort. Each of these recipes are quick and easy to prepare, and make the most delightful, memorable holiday gifts. Enjoy!
Maple Spiced Glazed Nuts
Photo by Deb Lindsey and food styling by Bonnie S Benwick; for The Washington Post
These maple spiced glazed nuts are in regular rotation during the holidays in my home, and they have become an annual fan favorite. I love to make a big batch and put them into cute ribbon-tied jars to give out as gifts. With their warming hints of cinnamon and cayenne, they are not only scrumptious eaten out of hand, they can instantly elevate a cheese plate, salad, roasted vegetables and a simple bowl of yogurt.
DIY Whole-Wheat Almond Pancake Mix
Photo by Deb Lindsey and food styling by Bonnie S. Benwick for The Washington Post
This wholesome pancake mix combines whole-wheat pastry flour, almond meal/flour and hemp hearts or wheat germ for protein-rich pancakes that come out tender and light, with a lovely nutty texture. A jar of the mix with a bottle of real maple syrup nestled with a pretty kitchen towel makes a lovely little holiday gift basket.
Coconut Date Balls
Photo by Sreal Boruchin
Here, these Coconut Date Balls are bite-sized snacks that offer a portable pop of on-the-go energy, made with dates for sweetness (so no added sugar is needed), shredded coconut, and a fragrant hint of cinnamon. Package them up in a gift box or bag tied with a ribbon —it’s an ideal gift for a health-minded food lover.