Homemade Holiday DIY Food Gifts Using Pantry Staples

What better time than the holiday season to show some love with gifts that are thoughtful, practical, and homemade? And you don’t even have to blow your budget or raid fancy stores to make it happen! You can use pantry staples you already have at home to whip up homemade edible gifts that look chic, taste amazing, and make people think you’re a modern-day Martha Stewart. From spiced nuts to hot chocolate mix, these homemade recipes are a great way to spread your holiday cheer without spending too much money.

Here are some great ideas for DIY food gifts to impress your friends and family.

DIY Holiday Food Gifts Made from Pantry Staples

Spiced Nuts

If you’ve got a bag of nuts hiding in your pantry, you’re halfway to creating a great gift! Toss them with a mixture of cinnamon sugar, chili powder, or even sesame seeds for a custom flavor profile.

Here’s a Basic Recipe:

• 2 cups of mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts—you do you!)
• 1 egg white (for sticking power)
• 1/4 cup sugar (or maple syrup for a caramelized vibe)
• Your favorite spices (cinnamon, sea salt, cayenne, or even lemon zest)

Bake at 300°F for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Cool completely before transferring to a mason jar or airtight container. Add a cute ribbon and a handwritten note with serving suggestions like, “Perfect with a cheese board or on its own!”

Flavored Salts and Spice Blends

Got sea salt and spices? You’ve got yourself a chic DIY gift that looks like it came from a gourmet shop. Mix up custom blends like:

• Chili Lime Salt: Chili powder + lime zest + flaky sea salt.
• Herb Blend: Dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano mixed with salt.
• Sweet Salt: Cinnamon and sugar with a pinch of salt.

Packaging Tip:

Use small parfait jars or recycled spice containers for your blends. Add a little spoon for bonus points and tuck it into a gift basket with other goodies like homemade pasta or a jar of homemade jams.

Cookie Mix Jars

This is one of the best homemade food gifts because it’s essentially a baking kit in a jar. Layer dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, and chocolate chips in a clear mason jar for an Instagram-ready look. Attach a handwritten note with the full recipe and baking instructions.

Favorite Combinations:

• Classic chocolate chip cookies with a pinch of sea salt.
• Oatmeal raisin with cinnamon sugar.
• Double chocolate with cocoa powder and chocolate chips.

Infused Olive Oils

Infused olive oil is the perfect gift for the foodie in your life. Add dried herbs like rosemary, garlic, or chili flakes to a clean, dry glass jar, then pour in high-quality olive oil. Let it infuse for a week for maximum flavor.

Packaging Tip:

Add a label with flavor suggestions (“Drizzle on roasted veggies or fresh bread!”) and pair it with a loaf of homemade bread for a lovely way to elevate this gift.

Homemade Granola

Homemade granola is a sweet treat that doubles as a practical breakfast or snack. Mix rolled oats, honey, maple syrup, nuts, and dried fruits like fresh cherries or cranberries. Bake until golden and package in reusable containers or cellophane bags tied with twine.

Hot Chocolate Mix

For a homemade treat that screams comfort, layer hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of cinnamon in a mason jar or cute tin.

Packaging Idea:

Tie a candy cane to the jar for stirring and add a handwritten note with instructions: “Just add hot milk or water for instant happiness!”

Chocolate Bark

Chocolate bark is one of the easiest ways to whip up a homemade food gift. Melt chocolate chips, spread on parchment paper, and top with whatever you have: crushed candy canes, nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt. Break into pieces and package in cookie tins or cellophane bags.

Infused Sugars or Homemade Vanilla Extract

Mix sugar with vanilla beans, citrus zest, or lavender for infused sugars that make a great addition to tea, coffee, or baked goods. For homemade vanilla extract, soak split vanilla beans in vodka for at least a month—though it gets better the longer it sits.

 

Personalize Your Food Gifts

Show your thoughtfulness and make even the simplest homemade recipes feel extra special by personalizing them! Here are some easy ways to personalize your creations:

Customize Recipes for Their Favorites

Think about what your gift recipient loves and tweak your recipes accordingly:

• For the sweet tooth: Add extra chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to a cookie mix jar.
• For the spice lover: Amp up the heat in spice blends or add chili flakes to infused olive oil.
• For the health-conscious: Use natural sweeteners like maple syrup in granola or swap in gluten-free flour for a baking mix.

Write a Handwritten Note

Nothing beats a heartfelt message! Attach a handwritten note to your gift with a few kind words or a fun anecdote:

• Share why you chose this particular recipe: “This hot cocoa mix reminds me of snow days when we were kids!”
• Add serving suggestions: “Try this infused olive oil drizzled over roasted veggies or fresh bread!”
• Include a recipe card for future use, so they can recreate the gift long after the holidays.

Package It in Reusable or Personal Keepsakes

Forget the generic wrapping paper! Use something that doubles as part of the gift:

• Mason jars or cute tins for items like hot cocoa mix or cookie dough ingredients.
• Small parfait jars or spice containers for salts, spice blends, or homemade jams.
• Wrap your gift in a festive tea towel or tie it with a ribbon and a sprig of fresh herbs like rosemary for a personal touch.

Tailor It to Their Lifestyle

Personalize your gift to fit their specific needs or preferences:

• For the baker: Include a DIY baking kit with pre-measured dry ingredients for a favorite recipe.
• For the foodie: Create a deluxe set with a bottle of infused olive oil and a small loaf of artisan bread.
• For the entertainer: Add snack mix or spiced nuts to a gift basket with wine or cheese.

Add a Special Keepsake or Bonus Gift

Take your gift up a notch by including something small but thoughtful:

• A tiny wooden spoon or measuring scoop with a jar of spice blend.
• A tea strainer with your homemade drink mixes.
• A decorative jar tag with their initials or a favorite quote.

Personalizing your homemade food gifts doesn’t have to take much extra effort. It’s all about adding those thoughtful touches that make your recipient feel seen and appreciated. 

 

Homemade Food Gifts Are the Perfect Gift

Whether you’re gifting to family, friends, or coworkers, homemade gifts are a great way to show you care without spending too much money. They’re personal, customizable, and don’t require expensive equipment.

Who are you gifting to this year, and what’s your favorite gift to give? Let us know in the comments below! 🎁

The post Homemade Holiday DIY Food Gifts Using Pantry Staples appeared first on Steamy Kitchen Recipes Giveaways.

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How To Make a Holiday Charcuterie Board on a Budget

The holiday season is upon us! It’s time to break out the cheese knives and WOW your friends and family with a stunning charcuterie board! And guess what? You don’t need a private chef’s budget to make one.

I’ll bring a few helpful tips, you bring a little creativity, and together, we’ll aim to assemble a charcuterie platter with affordable ingredients like pantry staples, seasonal finds, and budget-friendly cheeses from your local grocery store. In a second, we’ll dive into a few easy steps to help you craft your winter charcuterie board, but first, let’s talk about holiday themes for your beautiful board. 

Charcuterie Board Themes for the Holiday Season

Making a charcuterie board is as much about creativity as it is about flavor, and choosing a theme can take your board from “nice” to “next-level WOW.” So here are a few fun and festive themes you might want to consider:

Winter Wonderland Board

Create a snowy aesthetic by selecting white and pale foods for your board. You might want to start with a creamy goat cheese log or a wedge of brie, then add some fresh mozzarella pearls, and pair them with light-colored crackers or breadsticks. Sprinkle in some sugared nuts, white chocolate pretzels, and dried fruits like apricots or golden raisins. For décor and contract, be sure to use a few sprigs of rosemary to mimic evergreen branches.

Festive Red & Green Board

Want your board to scream “holiday season” with bright, seasonal colors? Be sure to use vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes, red grapes, or cranberries alongside green olives, cucumber slices, and pistachios. Then add a pop of sweetness with pomegranate seeds or green apple slices. Arrange everything around a centerpiece like a soft brie cheese wheel topped with cranberry sauce for a beautiful arrangement.

Dessert Charcuterie Board

Swap savory for sweet and go all out with a dessert-centric board. Include cream cheese or mascarpone for dipping, along with chocolate truffles, cookies, and marshmallows. Add in dried fruits like dates and figs, along with fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices. Pair with honey or caramel for drizzling, and you’ve got a holiday party showstopper!

DIY Kids Board

We recommend keeping it simple and fun for the little ones by using cheese cubes, mini crackers, rolled deli meats, and fresh fruit slices. Be sure to add in some colorful elements like jelly beans or mini candy canes for a touch of whimsy.

Did you pick a theme you like? Awesome! Let’s start the process!

 

How to Make A Budget Holiday Charcuterie Board

Step 1: Choose Your Base (Keep It Simple)

You don’t need a fancy wooden board to get started. A large cutting board, cookie sheet, or even a large platter will do the trick. Bonus points if it has raised edges to keep your ingredients from tumbling off. This board will be your canvas, so just make sure it’s sturdy and clean.

Step 2: Budget-Friendly Cheeses

Charcuterie boards are all about the cheese, so let’s talk strategy. The key is to pick different types of cheeses and create variety of textures and flavors. You don’t need to splurge on the crazy expensive triple-infused brie. Opt for stores like Aldi or Trader Joe’s to get a great selection of cheeses at great prices. Here are some affordable options:

• Hard cheese: Think cheddar or gouda. Both are inexpensive and crowd-pleasing.
• Soft cheeses: Creamy options like brie cheese or goat cheese feel luxurious without breaking the bank.
• Fancy cheese: Splurge on one showstopper, like creamy comté cheese or a small wedge of bleu cheese. A little goes a long way.

Let your cheeses come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. (But we recommend not leaving the cheese out longer than 2 hours.)

Step 3: Add Affordable Meats

No need for imported prosciutto! Opt for affordable meat products like hard salami or dry-cured sausages to make a nice, but cheap charcuterie board. Check the deli counter for deals or smaller portions to cut costs. Arrange them in different shapes for visual interest, whether folded, rolled, or fanned out.

Step 4: Raid Your Pantry for Extras

Here’s where things get fun! Fill in the gaps with items you probably already have:

• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or even peanuts to add some crunch.
• Dried fruit: Raisins, apricots, or cranberries bring the sweetness.
• Different types of crackers: Grab whatever’s on hand! Heck, if someone left a box of free crackers at your last potluck, use them!

Step 5: Fresh Produce for Color

Freshness is the perfect way to make your board look Instagram-worthy! And seasonal fresh produce is your friend. Think cherry tomatoes paired with fresh mozzarella, and slices of baguette. Scatter some fresh herbs around like rosemary or thyme sprigs for that holiday vibe.

Step 6: Small Bowls for Variety

Pop a few small bowls onto your board for dips, spreads, or pickled items. Options like cream cheese, olives, or even honey work well.

Step 7: Assemble Like a Pro

Don’t forget: the fun part is making it your own! Here are some tips for styling:

• Start with a Focal Point: Begin by placing your biggest items down first, like wedges of cheese or a small bowl of olives or honey. This anchors your layout and makes the board feel balanced.
• Use the Rule of Odds: Odd numbers are more visually pleasing, so aim for three to five cheeses, three kinds of meat, and an odd number of bowls. This creates a natural, balanced look.
• Play with Textures: A variety of textures keeps things interesting. Pair smooth brie with crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruits, and crisp crackers. For example, add different types of crackers—some seeded, some plain—for extra contrast.
• Layer and Stack: Create height and dimension by layering sliced meats or stacking crackers in small piles. Roll or fold meats like hard salami for an elevated presentation. Don’t be afraid to let some items overlap. It adds to the “plentiful charcuterie platter” effect.
• Fill in the Gaps: Empty spaces on your board can make it feel incomplete. Use small items like fresh herbs, dried fruits, nuts, or even sprigs of holly to fill in gaps. This will make the board look full and inviting.
• Add a Pop of Color: Bright ingredients like fresh produce (think red grapes, green cucumbers, or orange slices) or garnishes like pomegranate seeds add a fresh, lively touch. Don’t forget to use seasonal accents like cranberries for a holiday vibe.
• Don’t Forget the Cheese Knives: Serve your board with the proper tools, so guests don’t struggle to serve themselves. A set of cheese knives makes cutting and spreading a breeze.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Before your holiday party or next gathering, give your board one final look. Does it have a variety of textures? Are there enough colors? Your charcuterie board doesn’t have to be perfect, but make sure it’s fun!

 

​Never Make a Boring Board Again!

Now that you know how to make your own holiday charcuterie board, go forth and use it for Christmas gatherings, New Year’s celebrations, or any upcoming event!

What will your delicious spread consist of? We’d love to hear about, so be sure to leave us a comment below!

The post How To Make a Holiday Charcuterie Board on a Budget appeared first on Steamy Kitchen Recipes Giveaways.

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$100 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

December holidays are a time for cozy family gatherings, heartwarming traditions, and giving back to those we cherish most in our lives and who hold the wisdom and love that shape our families. Today, Steamy Kitchen wants to make your holidays even brighter with our $100 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway! Whether you’re planning a feast for loved ones, shopping for thoughtful gifts, or simply looking to treat yourself, this gift card is your ticket to making the holidays truly magical.

Why This Giveaway is Perfect for You

• The holidays are about sharing moments that matter. Use the gift card to pick up something special—a cherished book, a warm sweater, or the perfect kitchen gadget to whip up those beloved recipes passed down through generations.
• Gather around the tree or the dining table with ease. Stock up on festive decorations, holiday treats, or board games that bring everyone closer together.

The $100 Amazon Gift Card offers endless possibilities. It’s your chance to add joy, convenience, and a little sparkle to this festive season.

Let this be the year you celebrate with joy, warmth, and a little extra sparkle. Don’t wait—step into the holiday spirit with us and join the giveaway today!

The giveaway ends soon, so don’t miss this opportunity to bring a little more cheer to your holidays. Share this with family and friends—you never know who might be the lucky winner!

From our hearts to yours, let’s make this December one to remember. 

 

$100 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Enter to win below.

 

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