Ahhh the Holidays. Time to cozy up with family and participate in cheesy traditions.

I thought that in the spirit of the season, I would compile some of my favorite recipes that I have made as gifts for people over the years. Giving something from the heart is better than buying someone something they will never use. Especially for people at work, homemade gifts can really put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Gingerbread cupcakes I brought to work last year for coworkers

Sweets
Almond Butter Balls
Apple Pie
Butter Cake with Semi-Sweet Chocolate Drizzle
Candied Mango and Mint Popcorn Squares
Coffee Cake
Gingerbread Cookies
Guinness Cake
Lemon Ginger Corncake with Orange Marmalade Glaze
Mini Portable Pies
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Rosemary And Olive Oil Pound Cake
Sugar Cookies with Glaze
Toasted Almond Banana Bread
Vanilla Rum Cake with Buttercream
Whipped Cream
Zebra Popcorn

Savory
Arugula and Garlic Pesto
Cauliflower Curry
Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar
Guinness Beer Bread
Macaroni and Cheese
Pickled Hot Peppers
Sausage Dip

Candy and Drinks
Homemade Caramel
Matzo Candy Brittle
Mulled Wine
Rich, Creamy, Hot Chocolate

Thanksgiving 2012 with the family

Remember, people want to know you are thinking of them. So no matter how little or big your gift is, homemade holiday cheer is always backed by love. The time you put in, the thought you put into it, your friends and family know. A few sugar cookies won’t break the bank, but they will surely bring a smile to someone’s face.

Remember, accidents happen. Here was my holiday flub while making icing last year. Just laugh, and start again. Happy Holidays!