Peanut Bureau of Canada offers tips on making edible gifts in time for the festive season
The search for that one holiday gift sure to put a smile on everyone’s face this holiday season has officially begun. And while it can be tempting to give in to quick-fix solutions such as gift cards or wrapping up yet another pair of socks, the Peanut Bureau of Canada suggests taking a more personal and thoughtful approach to gift-giving with homemade gifts from the kitchen.
“I think homemade gifts are the best kind, particularly when they're edible and prettily packaged,” says Christine Picheca, online food editor, Canadian Living. “And while a gift from the kitchen doesn’t have to be elaborate or contain costly ingredients, it should be a bit out of the ordinary and something the recipient is not likely to make or already have in the pantry.”
From office colleagues and holiday party hostesses, to school teachers and babysitters, gifts from the kitchen are an excellent idea for everyone on your holiday gift list. To help Canadians get into the festive mood, the Peanut Bureau of Canada suggests the following:
That’s a wrap! – Consider wrapping containers and boxes with seasonal gift wrap, art paper, ribbon, and twill tape. Add simple festive embellishments, such as a sprig of holly, to ordinary brown or white paper bags to transform packaging into elegant wrappings.
Pack it up, Pack it in – Metal tins are available in many shapes, colors, patterns and sizes. Line with colored parchment paper before loading in the goodies.
A gift that keeps on giving – Enhance the gift by including a handwritten copy of the recipe on a card. Tuck the card in the package along with the treats and place both with additional ingredients from the recipe in a basket. The recipient will able to make the next batch in a pinch.
Handle with care – If planning to ship holiday treats to the recipient, firm baked goods, such as biscotti with peanuts, are the best option. Perishable foods, or fragile treats such as the Peanut Butter Truffles, should be reserved for gifts that you can hand deliver.
Have fun – Creating gifts in the kitchen is the ideal activity for the entire family to enjoy. It is not only a great way for kids to learn about the true spirit of holiday gift giving but it also creates memories for years to come. Encourage children to pick their favourite holiday recipes and help prepare them, while sharing memorable stories from holidays past.