A Homemade Gift for Everyone on Your List

Though we should do it all year long, the holidays are a time to reflect on the people who make a difference in our lives. I suppose that’s why this season is all about gifts and giving. We want to let the people we care about know that we appreciate them and giving them a gift is one way to show that. I often think that homemade gifts (and gift baskets in particular) are the best kind to give and to receive. Here’s a quick tutorial on putting together a DIY hot cocoa mix gift basket, plus a few add-ins and toppings to make it special.

DIY Hot Cocoa Mix Gift Basket

I’m planning to use this hot cocoa mix gift basket as a teacher gift, but it would also be perfect for pretty much everyone on your list – coworkers, party hostess, friend, neighbor, mailman, etc. I mean, who wouldn’t love to kick back with a mug a homemade hot chocolate? And it’s super easy to put together.

All you need are the ingredients for the mix itself and as well as any other small gifts you want to toss in: marshmallows, a cute mug, peppermint sticks, cinnamon sugar, you name it. Tailor it to your specific recipient or, if you don’t know them too well, just add a few toppings you think they might like. It’s hard to go wrong with this one!

Here’s what you’ll need to put together your own hot cocoa mix gift basket.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 2 1/2 cups dry milk powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Sift all of the ingredients into a big bowl to remove any lumps. Whisk together to combine. Then pack into jars. This recipe makes enough for 2-3 large jars (less than quart-size, but larger than a pint).

To make these darling spice shakers, I bought plastic ornaments with flat bottoms. You can find them at Michael’s or other craft stores. Remove the top from the ornament and poke a few extra holes in the top with a small hammer and nail. Fill with spices and put the top back on. The tops won’t stay on securely without the hangers so make sure you keep those on!

Add a simple metal tablespoon with ribbon as well as candy canes and mini marshmallows. To finish it off, my son wrote a special card for his teacher. That’s it! Something really simple but thoughtful to let my kids’ teachers know we appreciate them.