Gift Giving in 2020

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 12/15/2020 to Family

wrapped presents on porch in front of front door

Gift giving this year is likely to look very different from years past. Due to the current pandemic, social distancing and maintaining small social bubbles is highly encouraged. This doesn't mean that gift giving with friends and family can't be done, however--it just may have to be done creatively. For friends and family that live close by, consider surprising them by dropping off a small bag with homemade goodies or a gift at their doorstep. For those who don't live nearby, sending gift or a holiday care package through the mail is ideal.

While the holiday season is known for being a time for family and a time of giving, it's also known for being a time when there are endless sweet treats available. Add a personal touch to your holiday goody bag or gifts this year by adding a small bag of homemade desserts. Below is a list of dessert recipes JES has shared in the past that can be easily divided for multiple people:

Peanut Butter Bon-bons

Nutmeg Logs

Double Chocolate Fudge

10 Layer Monster Bars

Peanut Brittle Hot Fudge Squares

Since the holidays are a big time of year for making things from scratch, gift your friends and family with some small but useful bakeware items so they can bake to their heart's content this holiday season. Cookie cutters, pastry bags and tips, spatulas, or even a holiday-themed apron or tea towel set are all great options to include to spread the holiday cheer.

While it may or may not be cold quite yet in all parts of the USA, a nice cup of hot chocolate can immediately invoke that cozy winter feeling. A large batch of homemade hot chocolate mix can be easily divided between several holiday packages. Putting the mix in a mason jar with a decorative tag is an easy (and pretty) way to store the mix not only for transport but also for loved ones to display upon receiving it.

The holidays may not feel quite like the holidays this year so spread some holiday cheer by surprising friends and family with a holiday goody bag or gift basket.