During the holiday season, there can be so much pressure to spend more than usual and buy gifts for everyone you know. But you can still have a relaxing, creative, and fun as well as thrifty option: homemade gifts. In fact, most people would rather get a thoughtful token you’ve made yourself. Baked goods, snack mixes, cocktail starters, and other goodies are easy to assemble, and impossible for your lucky recipients to forget. We compiled a list of our favorite homemade gifts that can be made in batches, then divided into containers that you can decorate. You’ll bring comfort and joy to everyone on your list.
Sugar Cookie Decorating Kits
Sometimes the best part about holiday sweets is making them yourself. Give the gift of creative time in the kitchen with a customized decorating kit loaded with premade cookies, frosting, edible decorations, and more.
Get the instructions: Sugar Cookie Decorating Kits
Mexican Hot Chocolate Sticks
Chocolate and warm spices make up this adorable to-go version of Mexican hot cocoa. Your loved ones can dunk and stir homemade cubes of sweetened cream with two kinds of chocolate, cinnamon, and marshmallows into warm milk for a mug of cozy, seasonal cheer wherever they go. Bonus: These make a great stocking stuffer.
Get the instructions: Mexican Hot Chocolate Sticks
Garlic Ranch Beer Bread Jars
Satisfy the baker and the beer-lover on your list with one unexpected jar of DIY joy. Be sure to include baking instructions and bottles of your giftees’ favorite brew to add to this savory beer bread dough flavored with the kick of ranch seasoning.
Get the instructions: Garlic-Ranch Beer Bread Jars
Apple Shortbread Bars
Baking a pie is always a sweet way to say thanks. But for a pie-style treat that’s much easier to pull together—and to transport—try these crumb-topped bars, which can be stacked in gift boxes and eaten by hand, no forks necessary.
Get the instructions: Apple Shortbread Bars
Caramel-Chocolate Swirl Cracker Candy
Swirls of chocolate and homemade caramel cover crunchy saltine crackers for a sweet and salty combination that’s always a hit. No one will ever know that all it took was a microwave to make it happen!
Get the instructions: Caramel-Chocolate Swirl Cracker Candy
Chocolate Chip Pancake Mix
Waking up to fresh, fluffy pancakes on the weekend is a treat that everyone enjoys, so why not make mornings even more special with a homemade mix? One jar will make two batches of pancakes, so it’s really the gift that keeps giving.
Get the instructions: Chocolate Chip Pancake Mix
Super Chocolaty Brownie Mix
With chocolate chunks, cocoa powder, and a pinch of instant espresso powder for extra flavor, this mix will put big smiles on the faces of all the chocolate lovers in your life. All they’ll need to do is add eggs and oil for rich and gooey brownies.
Get the instructions: Super Chocolaty Brownie Mix
Raspberry White Chocolate Fudge
This festive spin on traditional holiday fudge uses just four ingredients and is ready in less than 15 minutes, making it a great last-minute gift option. With freeze-dried raspberries and creamy white chocolate, everyone will love this sweet and tart confection.
Get the instructions: Raspberry White Chocolate Fudge
Garlic-Herb Party Mix
Give the gift of good times with a crunchy, savory snack mix made for sharing. Portion this assortment of munchies tossed with butter, herbs, and spices into individual bags for a portable party anytime.
Get the instructions: Garlic-Herb Party Mix
Cookies and Cream Truffles
These decadent crumb-topped truffles look and taste like they came from a fancy chocolate shop. They’re a snap to make using chocolate sandwich cookies and cream cheese—no baking required.
Get the instructions: Cookies and Cream Truffles
Bloody Mary Mix
Brighten up brunch with a bottle of homemade cheer. This tangy Bloody Mary mix is celebration-ready, just add vodka, white tequila, or gin as desired, and keep refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Get the instructions: Bloody Mary Mix
Apple Cider Simmer Jars
Create a festive atmosphere with this easy and charming DIY holiday gift. These simple jars, when simmered with water, release warm, inviting scents that fill your home with the essence of the season. It’s a thoughtful and aromatic gift idea that’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
Get the Instructions: Apple Cider Simmer Jars
Scone Mix in a Jar
Gift a slice of happiness this holiday with this homemade scone mix. This clever present lets your loved ones whip up fresh, warm scones in no time. Just add their favorite stir-ins—candied cherries, nuts, or spices—and watch the magic happen. Who wouldn’t love homemade scones without any of the hassle?
Get the Instructions: Scone Mix in a Jar
Orange Marmalade
Brighten up the holidays with homemade orange marmalade! Infused with vanilla and cinnamon, this sunny spread is as delightful to taste as it is to gift. Perfect for friends and neighbors, these jars offer a touch of warmth and sweetness that’s sure to be appreciated.
Get the Instructions: Orange Marmalade
Italian Dip Ornaments
Dip ornaments are perfect for sharing and come with a delicious twist: simply add the contents to your favorite sauces or spreads for a delightful snack. Easy to make and ideal for gifting, they bring a touch of holiday flavor to any celebration.
Get the Instructions: Italian Dip Ornaments
Candied Pecans with Cinnamon and Coconut Sugar
Give the gift of crunch and sweetness this holiday with candied pecans spiced with cinnamon and coconut sugar. These irresistible bites are perfect for gifting and are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Get the Instructions: Candied Pecans with Cinnamon and Coconut Sugar
Three-Ingredient Peppermint Fudge
Three-Ingredient Peppermint Fudge is a standout DIY holiday gift that’s both simple and indulgent. With just three ingredients, this creamy, minty treat is easy to make and perfect for sharing. Packaged beautifully, it’s a delightful way to spread festive cheer and satisfy sweet cravings.
Get the Instructions: Three-Ingredient Peppermint Fudge
Chocolate-Cherry Babka
This DIY gift says, “I went all out!” without adding too much stress to your holiday season. With its indulgent chocolate and juicy cherries, this braided bread looks as impressive as it tastes. It’s a delightful, homemade treat that’s sure to make your gift stand out and your recipients smile.
Get the Instructions: Chocolate-Cherry Babka
Cookie Dough Biscotti
Packed with cookie dough flavor and perfectly crunchy, these biscotti are ideal for dipping into coffee or hot chocolate. They’re a treat that combines the best of both worlds, making them a must-try for any biscotti lover.
Get the Instructions: Cookie Dough Biscotti
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These vibrant, buttery cookies with their signature crinkled tops are simple to make and beautifully festive. Pack them up in a cute box or tin, and you’ve got a delightful, homemade gift that’s sure to impress and spread some holiday cheer.
Get the Instructions: Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
