Gifts from the kitchen are something special. Thoughtful and always welcome, they deliver love with every bite. And as well as a gift you know will always be eagerly received, make-your-own treats can also be an inexpensive present option whatever the occasion.
Among my favourites to make and give are crisp , delicious summer fruit jams, rich chocolate truffles, buttery , and jars of oozy chocolate sauce made using my Grannie’s recipe.
But at this time of year, with the festive season upon us and an incredibly long gift list on my fridge door, I turn to ingredients that are synonymous with a celebratory state of mind – dried fruits, nuts, citrus, honey and spices in particular. I’ll kick off with my rich and dense , which is perfect to give as a generous whole round or cut into wedges so the joy can be shared between many. Believe me, a little of this panforte goes a long way, which is why I also often make it in smaller individual rounds – cute and perfectly sized for a little gift or to include in a basketful of goodies.
Another wonderful recipe that makes excellent use of these festive ingredients is the one for my . Studded with punchy sour cherries and scented with fragrant orange, they are truly a sweet-tooth’s delight.
Which brings me to an important consideration when choosing a recipe for gifting – the receiver’s preferences and likes. Are they lovers of the savoury or the sweet? Would they swoon over a box of pretty and almost deadly-rich or much prefer a jar filled with – salty, toasty and addictive, these nuts will be secreted away for self-indulgent private snacking, I guarantee it.
For those who like to entertain, my twice-baked are reminiscent of those fancy savoury crackers you buy from good delicatessens and specialty food stores (but made at a fraction of that price), and perfect to serve with fresh goat’s cheese or brie. I have friends who aren’t shy about asking specifically for these crackers when I’m bringing something to add to a cheese plate.
The holiday season also offers the opportunity for delicious sleep-ins and long, slow breakfasts. So add to your friends’ ultimate special breakfast experience with a delectable – I promise delectable morning treat will have them thinking of you with every mouthful. And if I were you, I’d make a double batch and keep one for your own festivities at home. It’s the season of goodwill and delicious treats for everyone, after all.
Cook Anneka's recipes
1. Chocolate-orange panforte
Source: Alan Benson
2. Cherry and orange florentines
Source: Alan Benson
3. Chocolate crackle cookies
Chocolate crackle biscuits Source: Alan Benson
4. Rosemary-spiced cashews
Source: Alan Benson
5. Mixed seed and fig crackers
Source: Alan Benson
6. Maple, cardamom and almond granola
Source: Alan Benson
Photography by Alan Benson. Styling by Sarah O’Brien. Food preparation by Kerrie Ray.
