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There’s something so special about making – and receiving – a homemade gift!
Here are my five gift ideas which use common ingredients from your kitchen!
Watch my interview video for step-by-step instructions.
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DYI Gift #1: Mini Clementine Wreath
Everyone loves clementines this time of year! Take this seasonal fruit to make a cute wreath.
Step 1: Cut a piece of clear wrapping paper or clear basket wrap about 2 feet long.
Step 2: About 6 inches from the top edge of the wrapping paper, place 8 mini clementines about 1 finger width apart.
Step 3: Fold the top edge of the wrapping paper over the clementines and continue rolling until you get to the end of the wrapping paper.
Step 4: Bring the two ends of the wrapping paper together to form a wreath shape and tie the ends together with floral wire or a large twist tie.
Step 5: Tie a little bow between each clementine.
Step 6: Finish off the wreath by tying a big bow at the bottom of the wreath to cover up the floral wire.
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DIY Gift #2: Soup in a Jar
A perfect gift for the health conscious person on your list. The fibre in beans and barley helps to lower blood cholesterol levels.
Step 1: In a 4 cup jar, layer 3/4 cup each of green split peas, red lentils and barley. Repeat the layers.
Step 2: Attach a wooden spoon or soup spoon.
Step 3: Include a gift tag with these cooking instructions: Heat about 2 T of vegetable oil on medium high heat in a heavy stockpot. Sauté one diced onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 diced carrots and 2 stalks of chopped celery for about 5 minutes. Add the soup mix and 10 cups of broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until barley is tender.
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DIY Gift #3: Homemade Pancake Mix
The holidays can spell cookie overload! Give the gift of breakfast with this homemade pancake mix.
Step 1: In a tall clear bag, add 1 cup white flour, 1 cup whole wheat flour, 2 T sugar, 4 tsp baking powder and 1/4 tsp salt.
Step 2: Tie the bag with a festive ribbon.
Step 3: Attach these instructions on a gift tag: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 2 1/4 cups milk or buttermilk, 2 T oil or melted butter. Use a whisk to stir the pancake mix into the egg mixture. Heat a skillet with butter on medium high heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter at a time per pancake. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until bubbles form on the pancake. Flip over and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds or until the pancake is set. Makes 12 pancakes.
Step 4: Attach a colourful whisk and/or a bottle of maple syrup.
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4. Chai Tea Mix
An aromatic mix for the tea lover on your list!
Step 1: In a small jar, combine: 1/2 T ground black pepper, 2 T ground cinnamon, 2 T ground ginger, 1 T ground cardamom, 1 T ground cloves, 1/2 T ground nutmeg.
Step 2: Attach a gift tag with these instructions: To make a cup of chai tea, add 1/2 tsp of the tea mix with 1 cup of hot milk and 2 tsp of black tea. Optional – add sugar to taste.
Step 3: Pair the chai tea mix with a festive mug and you’re all set!
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5. DIY Coupons
Give the gift of your time or service.
Think beyond the kitchen and offer gifts that continue to give all year long.
Step 1: Hand write or print your own coupons.
Step 2: Place them in a tin or stocking stuffer. Have fun and be creative!
Here are some coupon ideas:
To spouse / partner / friend:
– No cooking tonight. Dinner on me at the restaurant of your choice.
– One month no garbage duty.
– Lunch on me today!
– One free night of babysitting.
To child from parent:
– Breakfast in bed!
– Stay up one hour past your bedtime.
– Dinner and movie with mom.
To parent from child:
– Free car wash by hand.
– Breakfast in bed!
– I’ll clean up my room without complaining.
Happy holidays and all the best for the New Year!