Homemade Holiday Gifts From Your Kitchen

Enjoy our three festive recipes to make some extra special homemade gifts this Christmas!

Cranberry Almond Energy Bites:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter or any nut butter
• 1/3 cup honey, rice malt or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/3 cup almonds, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), dried cranberries, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. Once chilled, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
5. Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until firm.
6. Package in a festive jar or tin for a healthy and energy-boosting treat.

Spiced Nut Mix

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or rice malt syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Sea salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the mixed nuts, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the nuts evenly.
3. Spread the nut mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden and fragrant.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
6. Allow the spiced nuts to cool completely before packaging them in festive jars.

Herb Infused Olive Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2-3 sprigs of rosemary
• 2-3 sprigs of thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• Dried chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the olive oil over low heat.
2. Add rosemary, thyme, garlic, peppercorns, and chili flakes (if using).
3. Heat the oil until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it boil.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the oil and transfer it to a decorative bottle.
6. Attach a tag with suggested uses, such as for dipping bread, drizzling over salads, or as a flavourful cooking oil.

These homemade treats not only taste delicious but also show thoughtfulness and care. Package them in festive containers, add a personalized touch, and you have wonderful, healthy gifts for your loved ones.