by F.M. Leith

Created on: October 22, 2008   Last Updated: September 27, 2011

The holiday season is rapidly approaching, and you'll soon be trying to figure out what to give as gifts. While some people on your gift list will be easy to shop for, others will not be. For example, there's Aunt Nancy, who really doesn't need another coffee mug. Well fret not, holiday gift giver, homemade food gifts are a great solution to your dilemma!

When planning your gift list, make sure to consider likes, dislikes, and allergies. Nut, wheat, and egg allergies can be especially dangerous to some people. On another note, make sure the gift recipient will like the gift (fruitcake anyone?) It's best to ask if you're not sure, especially when it comes to allergies.

Deciding exactly what to give as a gift can take some time. Will you give a food gift basket full of items that go together, such as homemade cookies and hot cocoa mix? Maybe you'd like to give your trademark cake recipe made in miniature bundt pans. Think it over a bit and then choose one or two gifts to make.

The most common type of homemade food gift is ready to eat. Cakes, cookies and candy are the most popular homemade food gifts. Aunt Nancy will be thrilled to receive her favorite peanut butter cookies, especially knowing that her seven-year-old niece helped make them. Make sure your food gift is one that keeps well.

Another way to give homemade food gifts is to give a dry mix with directions for completing the recipe. Use a family favorite or search the internet for something unique, like Sand Art Brownies (on the Food Network website). Maybe you have a secret rub that you use for the chicken that Uncle Ned absolutely loves.

Wrapping homemade food gifts can be as creative a process as you'd like it to be. Cakes can be wrapped in colored plastic wrap and topped with a bow. Small tins and baskets are usually available for purchase in a dollar store and are a great way to give cookies and candy. Mason jars are great for mixes. Giving oatmeal raisin cookies wrapped in an empty oatmeal box is clever, economical, and a great way to recycle.

Homemade food gifts can be the most original, personal, and thoughtful gifts that you'll give this year!

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