A DIY Christmas treat basket is an excellent gift option when you have many people to give gifts to but not enough time to individually curate each one. By making the Christmas treats in bulk, you can create several treat baskets or bags depending on the size you use. This approach allows you to efficiently and thoughtfully gift multiple people without the stress of finding unique gifts for each person.
Another reason these baskets are ideal is that they tend to be more cost-effective than buying other types of Christmas gifts. This makes them budget-friendly, especially when you need to spread your holiday cheer without overspending. Handmade treats show that you put effort and love into your gifts, making them personal and special.
Materials Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to get started assembling your gift baskets.
Baskets or Bags:
For as many people as you plan to make gifts for. Consider small wicker baskets, festive gift bags, or reusable fabric pouches.
Ideas for Obtaining Many Small Gift Baskets/Bags:
Check local dollar stores, thrift stores, or buy in bulk online. You can also repurpose containers you already have at home.
Food Wrappings:
Options include cellophane bags, parchment paper, wax paper, or small reusable containers.
Cost-Effective, Eco-Friendly, and Cute Food Wrapping Options:
Use biodegradable cellophane, reusable fabric wraps, or mason jars for a charming, eco-friendly touch.
Gift Ribbon/Bows or Other Desired Decorations:
Choose festive ribbons, bows, or twine to decorate your baskets or bags.
Tissue Paper & Gift Tags (Optional):
To add volume and make your treats visually stand out in the baskets.
Pre-Made or Homemade Snacks:
Use the following list of snack ideas as inspiration and feel free to include your own ideas:
Holiday Sugar Cookies
Molasses or Gingerbread Cookies
Brownies
Rice Krispy Treats
Holiday Chex Mix
Caramel Popcorn
Christmas Crack Toffee
Fudge
Candied Orange Peel
Almond or Peppermint Bark
Peanut Brittle
Pecan-Caramel Clusters
Hot cocoa mix
Chai or Loose-Leaf Tea Mix
Feel free to include other treats you love to make during the holiday season.
Directions
Once your materials have been gathered, here’s how you can begin assembly.
Prepare the Treats:
Make your treats and divide them into portions for each person or family you are gifting to.
Wrap the Treats:
Wrap them in the chosen food wrappings. Use parchment or wax paper for a rustic look, or cellophane bags for a more polished appearance. Mason jars or reusable containers can also be a charming, eco-friendly option.
Assemble the Baskets:
Arrange the treats in the baskets or pouches with tissue paper. Ball up some tissue paper near the back of the basket to create height and lean your larger food items, such as popcorn bags or large cookies/brownies, against the tissue paper ball in the back.
Nestle the smaller food items in front of the larger ones so that each treat remains visible. Be careful not to squish your baked goods.
Decorate the Baskets:
Tie a bow around the basket or onto the handle however you like. Add additional decorations such as festive stickers, ornaments, or small pinecones for extra flair.
Personalize the Gifts:
Add a gift tag with the name of the recipient(s) or a Christmas card to the basket. This personal touch will make your gift even more special.
These DIY Christmas treat baskets are sure to bring joy and a sense of festivity to your loved ones. With a little effort and creativity, you can create delightful, heartfelt gifts that everyone will appreciate.
Give Better Gifts 