Amid economic uncertainty, Americans plan to reduce spending this holiday season. Three-quarters of shoppers expect higher prices on holiday goods. Yet, the average consumer anticipates spending $1595, nearly 10% less than last year.
With budgets tightening, edible gifts are a thoughtful, affordable alternative that works for everyone on your list.
Homemade treats are a heartfelt way to show that you care, without the pressure of overspending during an already expensive time of year.
Stovetop Potpourri
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Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
These homemade potpourri jars are an inexpensive gift option that’s perfect for just about everyone and easy to make in bulk. I like gifting potpourri jars when I’m not sure of someone’s dietary preferences, and everyone wants their house to smell amazing this time of year.
You only need a handful of ingredients, and they are very customizable to whatever scents you like most. Consider dried orange peels, whole cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and more.
The dried fruit, herbs, and spices are then easily turned into stovetop potpourri by adding the contents of the jar and 4 cups of water to a saucepan and simmering over low heat.
This version contains a DIY tag to print and gift.
How to Make Stovetop Potpourri
Pear Butter
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
Warmly spiced and lightly sweetened, who wouldn’t want a gift of homemade pear butter? (Or pumpkin butter!)
The best part about this recipe is that it’s ready in an hour, no special equipment needed. Peel, core, and dice your pears. Add to a saucepan with maple syrup, spices, and a little lemon juice to prevent browning, then simmer until very soft.
Puree if desired, then package into jars (or water bath can to preserve your butter for longer.) Pear butter is great on toast or waffles, or my favorite way to gift, with a basket of freshly baked biscuits or scones.
Sweet and Spicy Rosemary Nuts
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
You can make your own roasted nuts for a fraction of what you’ll pay for them at the store. Add a pretty jar and a ribbon, and these sweet-and-spicy rosemary nuts are ready for gifting.
This recipe is also easily doubled (or tripled), which makes gift-giving that much simpler.
Homemade Oreos
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
These homemade oreo cookies feature the most tender chocolate cookie stuffed with either a regular frosting filling or a peppermint version for the holidays. The key to getting the dark brown color is using dark dutch processed cocoa powder, as regular cocoa powder will make for a lighter colored oreo.
Package up a sleeve with a ribbon for a fun, nostalgic gift.
Homemade Salsa
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
While baked goods are often my gift of choice when it comes to homemade gifting, a jar of homemade salsa is one of my go-to choices, especially for people who prefer savory over sweet.
I make a batch of about 60 jars of this 5-star-rated homemade salsa every summer for gifting throughout the year, especially during the holidays.
No fresh tomatoes? You can use canned tomatoes in place of fresh.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
Homemade truffles are easier than you think! Consider these for the friend who loves chocolate, but also prefers the finer things in life.
Rich, decadent homemade chocolate truffles, topped with a chocolate glaze and crushed candy canes. Or, skip the candy canes and opt for whatever topping you’d like, like edible gold leaf, crushed Oreos, or hazelnuts.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles
Candied Jalapenos
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
Candied jalapeno peppers are the condiment that goes with everything. Once you introduce these into your kitchen, it’s hard to find things that don’t complement. Sweet and spicy, these candied jalapenos are fantastic on nachos, tacos, sandwiches, quesadillas, and more.
A jar of these is also great in a gift basket with store-bought cheese, salami, and maybe a bag of homemade crackers for DIY spicy charcuterie.
Espresso Glazed Nuts
Image Credit: Delish Knowledge.
Slightly sweet with a hint of cinnamon and espresso, these adult nuts are made for sharing. Nuts are one of my favorite ways to enjoy healthy fats, and a jar of these glazed nuts is a perfect gift for health-conscious friends in your life.
I will often make a batch to have on hand for easy hostess and teacher gifts.
Espreso Glazed Nuts Recipe Here
