Gifts for the foodies in your life

Melissa Douse, Gleaner Writer

Whether they have a sweet or savoury tooth or both - foodies are often the easiest-to-please 'giftees' on your holiday shopping list. Because foodies are open to trying new things, they're sure to enjoy your gift, but best of all, they love to share. These gifts can also be great party favours that your guests will most definitely appreciate.

Here are eight gift ideas that will whet the appetites of the food lovers in your life this holiday season!

1. Gourmet Hot Cocoa

Who doesn't love a steaming cup of hot cocoa especially during the holiday season? Find an empty jar and fill it by layering cocoa mix, creamer, dry non-fat milk, marshmallows and chocolate chips. Add your own special touch by affixing a bow and card with mixing instructions.

2. Tea Chest Sampler

Nothing says 'me time' more than a perfect cup of tea. Share the love by selecting flavourful teas that will provide a moment of relaxation during the busy holiday season and even after into the New Year. Select anywhere from eight to 20 tea variations for your friends to try.

3. Flavoured Salts

Avid chefs will adore a jar of fine sea salt or flavoured salts. Find one that is beautifully packed or try your hand at making your own - anyone who cooks will adore this gift. Feeling generous? Don't just buy or make one flavour, you can give several.

4. Cheese

Make a cheese board and give the gift that keeps on giving. Select three varieties of cheese - soft cheese, firm cheese, and a blue veined cheese. Select a traditional wooden board and add an accompaniment such as flavoured crackers along with a cheese knife and some paper napkins.

5. Chocolate, Toffee, Truffles, Fudge

The holiday is not complete without one of these four sweet treats. Gourmet chocolate, home-made toffee, and truffles and decadent fudge desserts. Give one or treat them to all, create your own packaging and the possibilities are endless.

6. Dipping Oils

Pick up a bottle at the store or, better yet, make your own - dipping oils are the ideal gifts for foodies because they are the perfect pantry item. Your friends are sure to use it at their next gathering by serving it with bread for appetisers!

7. Cookies

While making a batch of your favourite holiday cookies, double the recipe and give them as gifts this year. No time to bake? No worries - purchase a variety box of gourmet cookies. Don't forget to gift wrap and add a card.

8. Infused Vodka

This is a fun and unique gift that is easy to make and sure to impress. All you need are three items - a bottle, vodka and the ingredient you will be using to create the flavour. Some holiday favourites include - cranberry, candy cane, orange, and citrus.

For recipes, packaging or any other additional information about these gift items visit www.mycraziefoodie.net or Email mycraziefoodie@gmail.com.