Holiday Gifts from the Kitchen: A Southern Tradition
Sometimes the holiday spirit gets lost in the quest for the perfect gifts. For some on your list, a batch of cookies, a loaf of bread or your famous cake may be the perfect solution. And, you might even enjoy an afternoon of baking more than a trip to the mall!
In the South, there is a reverence for food and the people who cook it, so it only stands to reason that a gift from your kitchen will have special meaning. And the wonderful thing is that it doesn't have to be fancy or time consuming. One of your family's favorite recipes is significant when shared with a friend.
Something home-baked is just the right gift for people you want to remember in a personal way - teachers, shut-ins or a friend who has been especially helpful. And, including a copy of your recipe adds the personal touch that keeps on giving long after the holidays are over.
Part of the fun of giving home-baked gifts comes in packing and wrapping your creations. The presentation can be as simple as wrapping with plastic wrap in a box, and adding festive ribbon.
If you have a little time, it's fun to look for compatible containers - like tins or jars for cookies, a plate or cover for a cake, or a cutting board and serrated knife to go with a loaf of bread. These little extras don't have to be expensive. Check discount and dollar stores, flea markets and grocery stores for items that would put the finishing touch on your gift.
Of all the home baked gifts, cookies are probably one of the best choices since most varieties will stay fresh for several days without refrigeration. Dried cranberries and chopped almonds turn classic oatmeal cookies into a holiday treat that would be a welcome gift. Cranberry Almond Oatmeal Cookies are good keepers and travel well if they're destined for a loved one who's away from home. This recipe is also good made with dried cherries or apricots.
And you can never go wrong with a batch of brownies. They're year-round favorites. But for the holidays, it's fun to dress them up by adding special ingredients and baking them in mini muffin cups. Southern Peanut Butter Brownie Bites are fun, easy to pack for giving and provide that guiltless little bite of something sweet.
Quick bread loaves — like banana, pumpkin and zucchini — all make nice gifts because they keep well and can be enjoyed for several days after baking. If you have a friend that might prefer a savory loaf instead of the traditional sweet varieties, try quick and easy Rustic Parmesan Herb Bread. Made with a combination of biscuit and cornbread mixes; this moist loaf has a delightful texture and flavor that complements soups and stews.