PICTURE: PEXELS/ DIY GIFT
We’ve finally reached November, which means it’s time to get the festive planning into full swing. For those who love gift-giving, the idea of a long list with a small budget can be scary, but D.I.Y. gift-giving should be your best friend!
Who doesn’t love a homemade gift, especially one you can eat? DIY food gifts are the perfect way to show some love, whether it’s for the holiday season, a special occasion, or just because. Plus, making something from scratch feels extra meaningful and gives you the chance to add a personal touch.
From sweet treats to savoury snacks, these DIY food gift ideas are simple to make and bound to be crowd-pleasers that the entire family will love. You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen, either—many of these recipes come together with minimal ingredients and time.
D.I.Y gifts to give your loved ones:
1. Chilli Oil
Spice up their pantry with a homemade chilli oil that’s perfect for drizzling over pizza, noodles, salads, and more. This easy-to-make gift is loaded with flavour from a blend of chillies and garlic —delivering that signature kick.
Pour the cooled oil into a glass bottle or jar, and add a personalised label for a thoughtful touch. You could tie a small spoon or serving tag around the bottle for a little extra flair. It’s a bold, delicious gift that will fire up their taste buds!
2. Honey butter jars
Sweet, creamy, and utterly irresistible, homemade honey butter makes a delightful gift that can turn any breakfast or snack into a treat.
Made with just butter, honey, and a pinch of salt, this spread is perfect for slathering on toast, warm biscuits, or even pancakes. Package it in small mason jars, and add a charming label with serving suggestions or a note to refrigerate.
3. Flavoured salts
Flavoured salts are a game changer and this D.I.Y food gift is super easy to make!
Try creating a variety of flavours, like rosemary-lemon, smoky chipotle, or garlic-herb. Simply mix sea salt with dried herbs, spices, or citrus zest, then let it dry completely before packaging. Spoon each flavour into small glass jars or test tubes, and label them with suggestions for pairing. It’s a thoughtful, practical gift that any foodie will love sprinkling into their favourite recipes!
4. Homemade jam
There’s something nostalgic about a jar of homemade jam, especially when it’s crafted with love. Bursting with fresh fruit flavour, this DIY gift is perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yoghurt, or pairing with cheese.
From classic strawberry to unique flavours like peach-ginger blueberry-lavender or onion homemade jam is a sweet surprise. Pour the jam into small mason jars, and add a handwritten label or a tag with a favourite recipe idea. Wrap the lid with a piece of patterned fabric or tie it with twine for a cosy, homemade touch that makes this gift a treat for the eyes and the taste buds!
5. Salted caramel sauce
Salted caramel is always a yes! Rich, creamy, and with just the right hint of salt, homemade salted caramel sauce is a decadent gift that can turn any dessert into something special.
Drizzle it over ice cream, dip apple slices, or swirl it into coffee—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it! Pour it into small glass jars, and add a cosy label with serving suggestions or a cute spoon for easy drizzling. This indulgent gift is sure to make anyone’s day a little sweeter!
6. Edible clay for the kids
For a hands-on, edible treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, look no further than Natalie Sideserf’s Edible Clay! Known for her jaw-dropping, hyper-realistic cakes, Natalie has brought her artistry to a new, kid-friendly level with this versatile, moldable clay that lets kids create their own edible masterpieces.
Edible clay is an ideal D.I.Y gift that will keep kids entertained and engaged, all while exploring their inner artists!
Compiled by: Maegan-Leigh Jacobs
First published by Food & Home
Also see: Master the art of fluffy basmati rice with this easy guide
