Food

5 Gorgeous DIY Food Gifts No One Will Believe You Made

It’s easier than you may think to create delicious homemade gifts: Start with one of these pantry staples—honey, vanilla, or cocoa—for treats too tasty to keep to yourself.

Recipes created by Joel MacCharles

Photo: Sheri Giblin/Offset

Here’s a delectable snack that can be customized to please just about anyone: You can use almonds, as we did here, or try hazelnuts, pecans, or a combination of all three. Put a few handfuls in a clear bag and tie it with a pretty bow—and include the recipe, so your giftee won’t have to ask.

Get the recipe: Honey-Glazed Ginger Nuts

Photo: Matt Armendariz/Offset

These sensational alternatives to store-bought maraschinos top off ice cream or cocktails perfectly.

Get the recipe: Vanilla-Bourbon Cherries

Photo: Sheri Giblin/Offset

Why give a fruitcake when you can deliver this fresh-baked goodie instead? It’s much simpler to assemble, and wrapping is a cinch: Add a simple sash of ribbon or fabric (we used felt and a pom-pom garland), and let the bread’s scrumptious texture show through.

Get the recipe: Vanilla-Lemon Cranberry Loaf

Photo: Felicia Perretti/Offset

The key to creating impressive truffles? Staying cool. Double-chocolate ganache makes this version extra delicious but extra melty, so frequently rinse your hands with cold water while working to minimize the mess.

Get the recipe: Peppermint and Chocolate Truffles

Photo: Athena Plichta/Offset

Give these cute cocoa stirrers a swirl.

Get the recipe: Chocolate Marshmallows

Joel MacCharles and Dana Harrison's cookbook Batch is a guide to edible gifts of all kinds, from jam to jerky.

From the December 2016 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine