Edible gifts can be delicious

There is something magical about Christmas. The twinkle of fairy lights, the comforting melodies of carols on Christmas FM, and the scent of cinnamon and mixed spices—all of it culminates in an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness.

Gifting can be as stressful or as relaxed as you want it to be. Personally, I’ve taken the low-stress route—my friends know the drill: they’re getting edible gifts, lovingly homemade and stuffed into pretty jars or boxes.

Are they as thrilled as I picture them being in my head? Who knows. But hey, it hasn’t stopped me yet! I figure if nothing else, at least they’re getting a snack out of it.

Unlike store-bought presents, edible gifts reflect the giver’s time and effort. Each carefully measured ingredient and every stir of the pot carry intention. There’s also an undeniable charm in the simplicity of edible gifts - food has the power to create lasting memories.

Moreover, edible gifts are delightfully versatile. Whether it’s a jar of jam for your best friend, a box of truffles for a neighbour, or a tin of cookies for your child’s teacher, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion.

Plus, they’re eco-friendly—many edible gifts can be packaged in reusable jars, fabric wraps, or paper bags, making them as sustainable as they are thoughtful.

After conducting a very scientific hot chocolate taste test with Miss Holly a few weeks back (complete with serious sipping and solemn nodding), I had a lightbulb moment: why not grate some high-quality dark, milk, and white chocolate into a fancy jar and slap on some instructions for making the ultimate hot chocolate? It’s a gift I’m pretty sure Miss Holly would approve of—though let’s be honest, she’s probably just waiting for her share.

For the home cook on your list, homemade infused oils or vinegars are a sophisticated option. Fill pretty bottles with olive oil and add sprigs of rosemary, garlic cloves, or dried chilli peppers.

Or create a fruity vinegar with cranberries and orange zest. These gifts are not only beautiful but also elevate everyday cooking, although I have seen friends keeping the bottles on a shelf never to be opened – so it can also be seen as a nice kitchen decoration.

Flavoured salts and sugars are simple yet luxurious gifts. Mix coarse sea salt with lemon zest, smoked paprika, or truffle oil for gourmet seasoning. For sugars, combine granulated sugar with vanilla bean seeds or lavender buds.

For the last number of years, I have made aromatic salt with the excess of herbs from my garden, adding lemon zest and dried chilli. Package the mix in small jars and label with suggested uses.

I’m also a fan of whipping up homemade jabneh—a fancy Lebanese cheese made from strained yogurt that makes me feel like a cheese artisan (or at least a yogurt wrangler). I like to roll it into little cheese balls, coat them in dried herbs, and drown them in a jar of olive oil, sometimes throwing in chilli and garlic for extra flair. Pair it with either handmade crackers (if I’m feeling ambitious) or some bougie store-bought ones, and voilà—it’s a snack-attack gift that says: 'I care about you... and your taste buds’.

The presentation of edible gifts is just as important as the gift itself. Use mason jars, kraft paper bags, or small tins for packaging, and add festive touches like ribbons, gift tags, or sprigs of rosemary for decoration. Handwritten notes or recipe cards make the gift feel personal. Happy gifting!