The holidays are approaching, and finding the perfect gift can be stressful. Instead of another store-bought item, consider the gift of delicious, homemade treats. Ina Garten’s website features several easy-to-make recipes that are ideal for gifting: perfect for holiday swaps, teacher appreciation, office parties, or simply showing friends and family you care. These recipes are straightforward and guaranteed to be a hit.
Homemade Granola: A Versatile Favorite
Granola remains one of the most adaptable breakfast and snack options. Garten’s homemade granola recipe is so simple that you might never go back to store-bought versions. The process involves tossing oats, coconut, and almonds with a mixture of vegetable oil and honey, then baking until golden. Once cooled, combine with dried apricots, figs, cherries, cranberries, and cashews. Package the granola into decorative snack bags, and include the recipe so your loved ones can recreate it at home.
French Chocolate Bark: A Decadent Delight
Garten’s French Chocolate Bark is a simple yet irresistible treat. Melt semisweet and bittersweet chocolate in the microwave, pour onto a parchment-lined sheet pan, and decorate with roasted cashews, crystallized ginger, cherries, apricots, and raisins. Once cooled, cut into squares and package for coworkers, teachers, or anyone deserving of a sweet surprise. The combination of flavors screams “holiday cheer,” and recipients will struggle to resist devouring the entire batch.
Cherry Pistachio Biscotti: An Impressive Treat
Biscotti is a classic giftable cookie, and Garten’s Cherry Pistachio Biscotti is surprisingly easy to make. Cream together butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until light and fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla. Separately, whisk together flour, almond meal, baking powder, and salt before gradually incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet. Finally, add pistachios and cherries. Shape the dough into logs, bake, and then cut into biscotti shapes while still warm. These cookies look professional, making it hard for friends and family to believe you made them yourself.
Salted Caramel Nuts: An Addictive Favorite
Garten’s Salted Caramel Nuts are an addictive combination of cashews, pecans, almonds, and walnuts roasted and tossed in homemade caramel. While caramel may seem daunting, it’s surprisingly easy: simply melt sugar and water in a saucepan until it turns a dark caramel color. Once cooled over the nuts, break them apart into clusters. Prepare for requests year after year; these nuts are a guaranteed hit.
Chipotle and Rosemary Roasted Nuts: A Savory Twist
For a savory alternative, try Garten’s Chipotle and Rosemary Roasted Nuts. The process is similar to the Salted Caramel Nuts, but simpler. Toss cashews, walnuts, pecans, and almonds with vegetable oil, maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, chipotle powder, and rosemary. Spread evenly on a sheet pan and roast, stirring occasionally. Serve or pack at room temperature; it’s that easy.
These recipes, available on Garten’s website, offer a delicious and thoughtful alternative to traditional gifts. Edible presents are always appreciated, and these five recipes are sure to impress
