Presents you can eat are a great idea for gifting (and won’t clutter up the house). After all, who doesn’t like fancy chocolate?
Whether it’s for a fellow foodie or someone who appreciates the effort behind a gift, edible presents are always a hit at Christmas.
From homemade jams to gourmet chocolates, there’s no shortage of ways to show some love.
But it’s not just about what’s inside the box – it’s about how you present it too.
Here are some gift ideas and pro tips to help you create thoughtful, flavour-packed presents this holiday season.
Homemade preserves and jams
Homemade jams, chutneys or pickles make personal, thoughtful gifts. These jars can showcase a unique take on traditional favourites or even your own creations.
Pro tip: Use attractive glass jars or vintage-style bottles, and label them with a handwritten note that includes the ingredients and usage suggestions. You can also add decorative touches like fabric covers, twine, or even a sprig of fresh rosemary for a fragrant, festive touch.
Recipes to try:
Baked goods
Homemade biscuits, cookies, or gingerbread are classic Christmas gifts, but there’s room to elevate these treats into something extraordinary. Think of a rich fruitcake packed with dried fruits and nuts, or a spiced loaf with a glaze that’s sure to impress. For a playful and indulgent twist, consider a box filled with bite-sized treats like truffles, pralines, or homemade marshmallows.
Pro tip: For packaging, choose elegant gift tins or stackable boxes that keep the treats fresh. Wrapping them in parchment paper adds rustic charm and a personalised tag with the story behind the recipe will bring warmth to the gift.
Recipes to try:
Gourmet chocolates or truffles
If you’re after something luxurious, gourmet chocolates or truffles are always a winner. You can either purchase a beautifully packaged box or make your own.
Pro tip: Present the chocolates in a sleek wooden box, glass jar, or decorative tin, with layers of tissue paper for a refined presentation. Finish with a satin ribbon or jute twine, and maybe even a wax seal for a dash of old-world charm.
Things to buy:
- House of Chocolate 3-Piece Christmas Bonbon & Bar Duo $28
- Baileys Chocolate Truffles (available from supermarkets, prices vary)
- Bennetts Christmas 16 Crispy Salted Caramel Praline $40
Flavoured oils and vinegars
Infused oils and vinegar are perfect for the person who loves experimenting with flavours in the kitchen. A simple formula for making infused oils involves heating your base oil and adding herbs or spices, then letting it cool and strain. Try basil-infused olive oil, or chilli and garlic-infused oils
Pro tip: Bottle them in glass carafes, rustic corked bottles, or repurposed wine bottles. Add a recipe card or a small bundle of fresh herbs tied with twine to complete the gift.
Recipes to try:
Syrups and infused spirits
Infused spirits, liqueurs, or homemade cordials and syrups make for a delightful and personal drink gift. Consider infusing spirits like gin, vodka, or rum with fruits, herbs or spices. Homemade fruit cordials and syrups also make a charming gift, perfect for mixing into cocktails or enjoying in a dessert.
Pro tip: Bottle the infusion in a glass bottle with a cork or a sealed lid and include a recipe card for a signature cocktail or serving suggestion. Adding a decorative label and a ribbon will add a polished, festive touch.
Things to buy:
Presentation tips
- Use natural materials: Think burlap, twine, or kraft paper for packaging – these add a rustic, artisanal feel that suits edible gifts perfectly.
- Mix and match: Present multiple small items together for a gift set. You could combine jams, cookies, and chocolates in a charming gift box or mix oils, vinegar and homemade crackers with a recipe card for a themed gift that feels extra thoughtful.
- Add a personal touch: Handwritten tags with messages, instructions, or a brief story about the gift can make it feel special and intimate. This is the type of gesture that shows thoughtfulness and care.
Pro tips for flawless foodie gifts
- Freshness is key: For perishable items like baked goods, make sure to deliver them close to the time of gifting. Alternatively, package them with instructions for storing or consuming quickly to ensure they stay fresh.
- Think beyond food: Pair your edible gifts with something complementary, such as a set of beautiful tea towels, a wooden spoon or a small cheese board or some beautiful glassware. This adds a curated element that enhances the overall gift.
- Make it memorable: Tailor your edible gifts to the recipient’s personal tastes, whether it’s their favourite flavour or a nostalgic treat. Crafting a gift around their preferences makes it even more thoughtful and personal.
Foodie gifts are always appreciated, and with a little creativity in both the kitchen and the presentation, you can make your presents stand out. It’s the thought and effort behind the gift that truly makes it special.
Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently, including how to make the perfect risotto, the secret to cooking dried beans and choosing the right pasta.
