Photography by Yvonne Duivenvoorden
Homemade and heartfelt, a gift of your own creation is as wonderful to make as it is to give – and receive. From old favourites to sophisticated sensations, these suggestions from the staff of The Canadian Living Test Kitchen include something for everyone on your list.
Recipes
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Apple Schnapps
In the long, dark evenings of winter, what would be more welcome than a fragrant whiff of sunny apple-orchard autumn preserved in schnapps? Tell the l... -
Hazelnut Coffee and Cream Liqueur
This sweet and creamy liqueur with its robust coffee flavour and subtle accent of hazelnut is ideal after a festive meal. -
Lemon Bark
Present this white chocolate treat dotted with bits of crunchy lemon candy in a festive cookie tin. -
Peanut Butter Fudge
A favourite childhood flavour in a smooth, dense, creamy treat makes this a gift that's guaranteed to please any age. -
Caramel Almond Popcorn
This old-time favourite is the ideal gift for adults and children alike. Place the popcorn in a glass jar or clear cellophane bag tied with a festive ... -
Hermit Cookie Mix
Decoratively layer nuts, dried fruit, spices and dry ingredients in a pretty glass jar for an intriguing gift. Attach a gift tag with cooking instruct... -
Garlic Peanuts
No holiday reception or party should be without flavourful nuts, and these garlic peanuts, which are a staple imbibing companion in the Philippines, m... -
Cranberry Fruit Chutney
Fresh and tangy yet sweet enough to satisfy, this burnished red condiment pairs beguilingly with turkey, ham, goose and duck. Save some for pork loin ... -
Fruit Compote Mix
With its decorative spice bundle and colourful layers of dried fruits, this gift of a compote base not only is dramatically beautiful but also makes a... -
Peppermint Cookie Pops
Soft, chewy cookies sprinkled with colourful candy cane make a festive gift. You can also stick the peppermint pops into a plastic foam ball for a nov... -
Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Mix
This classic is a great gift for a hostess or teacher. Put the mix in a jar, tin or handsome mugs and tie on a bundle of extra marshmallows with a fes... -
Black Forest Brownie Mix
With the mix prettily presented in layers and baking instructions written on the gift card, this makes a welcome present for families, teachers or col... -
Sweet and Salty Walnuts
These delicious walnuts often open a meal at a Chinese banquet when fiery Chinese spirits are served. Chinese chefs swear by lard for frying nuts, but... -
Chocolate Mousse Truffle Cups
These bite-size morsels are perfect to enjoy after dinner or as a treat with coffee. Pack them in a parchment paper-lined gift box to tote along as a ...
