Affordable Gifts to Make at Home
The holiday season is now in full swing. And, with the economy the way it is, every penny needs to be pinched for many of us. So, what about the gifts? Homemade gifts are a great way to go. In fact, I think homemade gifts are wonderful because of the extra (but not inconvenient) thought and effort that it takes. So, whether is Hanukkah (beginning December 21 at Sundown), Christmas (December 25), Kwanzaa (December 26, 2008 - January 01, 2009), Boxing Day (December 26), or the Islamic New Year (December 29 - Depending on the sighting of the moon in North America), anyone can offer loved ones meaningful, from-the-heart gifts.
A fun favorite, is the Hot Chocolate Cone. In fact, the Hot Chocolate Cone was included in Oprah’s Favorite Things Show. You can find the cones in a variety of stores, from CVS, Swoozies, to higher end stores. But why spend between $5 – $15 for one when you can make several for the same amount? Spatulatta, Family Fun, Associated Content all have how-tos, but in brief — a few items are all you need, including:
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clear disposable cake decorating bags*
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hot chocolate mix
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mini marshmallows
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candy or chocolate chips for flavoring**
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small rubber bands
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ribbon* Can’t locate find disposable cake decorating bags? Use sandwich baggies or cellophane gift bags.
**Spice up your mix by including cinnamon, butterscotch, white chocolate, or cherry chips!
Individual 1-quart canning jars can be used for a lot more than pickling and preserves. What about gifts in a jar? Who doesn’t like chocolate chip cookies? Brownies? Bar cookies? Carefully layer a cookie recipe’s dry ingredients in the jar, tie a ribbon around the lid, and a recipe card that includes the missing (wet) ingredients to the ribbon and voila! Instant dessert happiness. For help, click below for recipes and how-tos:
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Organized Christmas (has downloadable M&M Cookie gift tag PDF file!)
To add that extra oomph, why not decorate the jar itself, as well?
Have fun!
