Baked Goods
This is a list of a few cakes, quick breads and cookies that make delicious gifts. All of the recipes can be made several months ahead and frozen. Bake the breads in mini loaf pans. The cakes can be made in 6-inch round or square cake pans, as well as mini loaf pans, adjusting baking time as needed. Make certain they are completely cooled before wrapping or freezing. For additional recipes, see the Cakes, Breads and Cookies and Candy pages.
Sweets and Treats
I must admit that I do not make candy very often because I have a great source for delicious homemade-style chocolates. However, I do make a few favorites now and then, especially chocolate truffles that are to die for. In this category, I included my granola recipe that makes a delicious breakfast cereal or lightly sweet, healthy snack. Several of the remaining recipes were shared by contributors.
Canned Goods
Up until a few years ago, my mother and I canned all sorts of vegetables every summer. The pickles and tomatoes kept us through the winter with plenty leftover for gifts. Recipients loved those homemade gifts more than any others. Mom is gone now and my garden is smaller so I no longer preserve as much as in the past. Some of the items below can be refrigerated or frozen instead of processed, as indicated in individual recipes. If you are a novice canner, consult an expert or reputable canning guide. For more information and recipes, visit the Recipes and Tips for Preserving Foods page.
Spice Blends
Spice Blends make great homemade gifts. And they are so easy to make. Place the mix in small jars, attach labels with a list of the ingredients and include a favorite recipe in which to use the blend.
Soup Mixes
Take the dried ingredients from your favorite bean soup. Make a packet of the herbs and spices, place it in a jar or bag with the correct amount of dried beans and other dry ingredients, in separate packets if they get added to the soup at different times. Do not forget to add the recipe. To make it even easier, add the amount of appropriate low-sodium dried bouillon granules needed to make the amount of broth needed. Dehydrated vegetables, such as onions, garlic and celery can be added as well to replace some of the fresh called for in the recipe. All the recipient has to do is add water, additional fresh vegetables and/or meat. The following are examples of recipes that adapt well to soup mix gifts. Others can be found on the Soup and Chowder Recipes page. You can use any of your favorite recipes, as well.
Flavored Vinegar
This is a great idea. Make up your own flavor using your favorite herbs and/or spices. The possibilities are endless depending on the type of vinegar and seasonings desired. Place the herbs and vinegar in a covered jar or bottle and let it set in a cool place, out of direct sunlight, for 2 to 3 weeks. Shake the bottle occasionally.
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No matter where I take my guests, it seems they like my kitchen best.
Pennsylvania Dutch Saying
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