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Homemade food gifts hold a special charm, particularly during the festive season. Whether it’s for Christmas, a thoughtful gesture for a friend who is ill, or a delightful surprise for new mothers, these gifts bring a touch of personal warmth to the table. The beauty of homemade gifts lies in their versatility – they’re perfect for any occasion when you want to show someone you care.

This post will guide you through the joys of creating these edible treats, offering easy recipes that are both fun and satisfying to make. No need for a bustling kitchen or mountains of ingredients; even if you’re preparing for just one or two people, these recipes will fit the bill perfectly.

a box of rum balls in a gift box.

If you’re looking for small batch cookie recipes that are perfect for gift-giving, consider making our Shortbread Bites, Oatmeal Cookies, or Ginger Cookies!

Why These Recipes Work

  1. User-Friendly: The instructions are clear and straightforward, perfect for all cooking levels.
  2. Versatile: Whether you’re cooking for dietary restrictions or personal preferences, these recipes can be easily modified.
  3. Efficient: Quick and easy to prepare, these recipes are ideal for those with a busy schedule.
  4. Personalized Touch: Homemade gifts show that extra bit of care and thoughtfulness that store-bought items can’t match.
  5. Occasion-Ready: Be it a festive celebration or a simple gesture of kindness, these recipes are suitable for any event.

Homemade Food Gifts

A square slice of gingerbread on a small plate with the baking dish in the background

Gingerbread For One

4.74 from 45 votes
So easy to make and is a treat for the holidays or anyday. A small batch of sweet, perfectly spiced old fashioned gingerbread. This gingerbread cake is baked in a small baking dish and is the right amount for one or two people.
Gingerbread Recipe

Small Batch Chocolate Covered Oreos

5 from 2 votes
Whip up 12 easy, no-bake Chocolate Covered Oreos in minutes! Customize with sprinkles, get fancy with variations, and treat your sweet tooth – zero effort, pure bliss!
Chocolate Covered Oreos Recipe
chocolate candies cut into wedges topped with crushed peppermint candy.

Small Batch Peppermint Bark

5 from 2 votes
Peppermint bark is so easy to make! This delicious treat is made with semi-sweet chocolate, white chocolate, peppermint extract, and a crushed candy cane.
Peppermint Bark Recipe
6 rum balls rolled in sprinkles and powdered sugar on a white plate next to a gold napkin and leaves from a tree

Small Batch Rum Balls

5 from 8 votes
A small batch of rich and boozy rum balls are perfect for gift-giving or portion control. An easy no-bake recipe perfect for any time of the year!
Rum Balls Recipe
a silver tray filled with big cowboy cookies next to an orange napkin.

Small Batch Cowboy Cookies

4.82 from 54 votes
Bake up a hearty small batch of Laura Bush Cowboy Cookies today! This cowboy cookie recipe gives you jumbo cookies packed with oats, chocolate, and nuts.
Cowboy Cookies Recipe
one frosted carrot cake cupcake on a white plate next to three cupcakes.

Small Batch Carrot Cake Cupcakes

5 from 5 votes
Enjoy moist & flavorful carrot cake cupcakes with our easy recipe. Perfect for a small batch of 5-6, ready in less than 30 minutes for a quick sweet treat.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
three thumbprint cookies filled with orange jam on a white plate.

Small Batch Thumbprint Cookies

5 from 2 votes
Bake 6 buttery Thumbprint Cookies with this simple recipe! Perfect for a quick, delightful treat filled with your favorite jam. Easy and delicious!
Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
six pieces of fudge on a wooden table next to a red and white napkin

Small Batch Microwave Fudge

4.97 from 27 votes
Make a delicious and decadent fudge in minutes with this easy microwave fudge recipe! This small batch recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it's sure to become a new favorite.
Microwave Fudge Recipe
a plate filled with peanut butter fudge on a silver tray

Small Batch Peanut Butter Fudge

4.84 from 12 votes
Make delicious Small Batch Peanut Butter Fudge with just 4 ingredients! Rich, creamy, and ready in minutes, this treat is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful, homemade taste that's sure to be a hit.
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
an apple cinnamon scone topped with a glaze and chopped pecans on a baking sheet

Small Batch Apple Cinnamon Scones

4.79 from 23 votes
Buttery Apple Cinnamon Scones filled with bits of sweet apples and toasted pecans and topped with a delightful maple glaze. This wonderful small batch recipe will yield 4 tender scones.
Apple Cinnamon Scones Recipe
two brownies with nuts stacked on top of each other on a plate

Small Batch Brownies Recipe

4.89 from 77 votes
The best single serve brownie recipe! This small batch brownie recipe delivers rich, chewy, chocolatey brownies baked in a small baking dish. Ready in minutes!
Small Batch Brownies Recipe
a stack of oatmeal cookies on a plate next to a stick of butter and a jar of oats.

Small Batch Oatmeal Cookies

4.94 from 105 votes
Satisfy your cookie cravings fast with our perfect small batch oatmeal recipe! Bake chewy, delicious treats in no time and enjoy homemade goodness today.
Small Batch Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
a spoonful of taco seasoning held over an open jar of the seasoning next to a cream colored lace scarf

Small Batch Taco Seasoning

5 from 10 votes
This small batch homemade taco seasoning recipe is easy to mix together and works great on tacos, vegetables, meats, seafood, rice, beans, and more. You'll never want to buy taco seasoning from the store again!
Small Batch Taco Seasoning Recipe
a single chocolate truffle in a blue bowl.

Small Batch Chocolate Truffles

5 from 3 votes
Create luxurious small batch chocolate truffles with our simple recipe. Enjoy elegant, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion!
Small Batch Chocolate Truffles
a cranberry orange scone on a clear plate.

Small Batch Cranberry Orange Scones

4.93 from 14 votes
Make 4 perfect Cranberry Orange Scones in under 25 minutes. Enjoy buttery scones with tangy cranberries and sweet orange—better than store-bought!
Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
a stack of three pancakes topped with butter next to a bowl of blueberries.

Small Batch Pancake Mix

4.50 from 8 votes
Make mouthwatering pancakes quickly with this simple small batch pancake mix. Ideal for one or two servings, this mix is ready in minutes, customizable to your taste, and free of preservatives.
Small Batch Pancake Mix Recipe
coffee creamer next to a blue coffee mug and a plate of cookies

Small Batch Chocolate Coffee Creamer

4.87 from 22 votes
Whip up this homemade small batch Chocolate Coffee Creamer in minutes! Perfect for small households, it's dairy-free, easy, and delicious.
Chocolate Coffee Creamer Recipe
a small jar of lemon curd.

Small Batch Lemon Curd

4.79 from 14 votes
Discover how to make quick, homemade Lemon Curd with our simple recipe! Ideal for adding a vibrant, tangy flavor to your favorite desserts and snacks.
Lemon Curd Recipe
one vanilla cupcake topped with buttercream frosting and sprinkles on a green plate.

Small Batch Vanilla Cupcakes

4.86 from 27 votes
Enjoy two homemade vanilla cupcakes with this easy small batch vanilla cupcake recipe. Delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture with rich buttercream frosting.
Two Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
a jar of jam on a kitchen table.

Easy Small Batch Refrigerator Jam

4.90 from 28 votes
Easy small batch refrigerator jam made with just two ingredients. Use blueberries or strawberries and sugar in this quick stovetop recipe.
Small Batch Refrigerator Jam Recipe
apple butter in a jar with a knife on the side.

Small Batch Apple Butter

5 from 21 votes
This homemade apple butter is made in a slow cooker. It's perfectly spiced and so easy to make. This small batch apple butter recipe comes with step-by-step instructions. It's wonderful to spread on toast, to use in a recipe, or to give a jar as a gift.
Small Batch Apple Butter Recipe
a soft frosted sugar cookie on a white plate next to a white napkin

Small Batch Sugar Cookies

4.82 from 11 votes
Enjoy our easy small batch Sugar Cookies recipe, yielding six soft, lofthouse-style treats with luscious buttercream frosting. Easy one-bowl baking for perfectly buttery and melt-in-your-mouth cookies!
Small Batch Sugar Cookies Recipe
a loaf of french bread on a dark counter.

Easy Small Loaf French Bread

4.95 from 187 votes
Learn how to easily make a small loaf of French bread, perfect for beginners. Follow this simple recipe for a delicious bread with a golden crust and a soft, fluffy center. Perfect for sandwiches, browned toast, or simply with butter and jam.
French Bread Recipe
a bowl of cucumber salsa next to tortilla chips

Small Batch Cucumber Salsa

4.85 from 13 votes
Whip up a fresh, flavorful small batch Cucumber Salsa for your next snack or meal. With crisp cucumbers, tangy vinaigrette, and versatile serving options!
Small Batch Cucumber Salsa
a small bowl of cherry pie filling on a tray.

Small Batch Cherry Pie Filling

5 from 7 votes
Discover how to make the perfect Small Batch Cherry Pie Filling with this easy, quick recipe. Perfect for mini pies and delightful toppings.
Small Batch Cherry Pie Filling
a small square pumpkin bar topped with cream cheese frosting and yellow sprinkles on a yellow plate.

Small Batch Pumpkin Bars

4.95 from 19 votes
This is a wonderful small batch pumpkin bars recipe. Tender pumpkin cake topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting and sliced into squares. No need to make a big batch, this small batch pumpkin bar recipe gives you the perfect amount to satisfy a sweet craving.
Small Batch Pumpkin Bars
a mason jar filled with a small batch of butter pecan granola next to a green napkin

Small Batch Butter Pecan Granola

4.87 from 45 votes
This homemade Butter Pecan Granola recipe is the only granola recipe you need! Perfectly sweet, crunchy and full of so much flavor. This butter pecan granola can be ready in minutes and tastes so good!
Butter Pecan Granola Recipe
Chocolate Candy Clusters | One Dish Kitchen

Small Batch Chocolate Candy

4.93 from 13 votes
Learn how to make easy and delicious 2-ingredient chocolate candies with this simple small batch recipe. Includes tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Small Batch Chocolate Candy
a small white cake on a white plate topped with colored sprinkles next to a ramekin

White Cake For One

5 from 4 votes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy White Cake recipe. Indulge in a moist, tender, and vanilla flavored treat just for you or to share!
White Cake For One Recipe
a plate of white and dark chocolate oreo balls next to a second plate of the chocolate dipped truffles and a gold napkin.

Small Batch Oreo Balls

5 from 2 votes
Make delicious Oreo Balls with this simple small batch recipe! These easy-to-make Oreo truffles are perfect for gifts or a tasty treat.
Small Batch Oreo Balls Recipe

Expert Tips

  • Ingredient Quality: Always choose the freshest ingredients for the best taste.
  • Presentation Matters: The way you present these gifts can make them even more special. Think creative packaging and personal touches.
  • Keep it Fresh: Learn the best ways to store your creations to maintain their freshness and flavor.
  • Flavor Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and add your unique twist to these recipes.

Giving Food Gifts: Thoughtful Considerations and Packaging Ideas

When preparing to share your homemade food gifts, it’s essential to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies of the recipients. If you’re not certain about their specific dietary needs, it’s a good practice to attach a small tag to the package. This tag should clearly list any common allergens present in the treat, such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. This thoughtful gesture ensures that your recipients can enjoy your gift safely and with peace of mind.

In terms of packaging, opt for reusable options that add an eco-friendly touch to your gift. Canning jars, food storage jars, attractive boxes, or decorative bags not only look charming but also encourage sustainability. These containers not only enhance the presentation of your gift but also provide a practical use for the recipient afterward. Choosing such packaging aligns with an environmentally conscious approach and adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to your gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to assess food gift perishability for shipping?

When shipping homemade food gifts, it’s crucial to consider their perishability. Ensure that the items you plan to ship can withstand the transit time without spoiling. Avoid sending any food that requires refrigeration, as these are best given in person. Consider the shelf life of your edible gift and choose a shipping method that matches this timeframe to ensure it arrives fresh and enjoyable.

What’s the best method to ship cookies?

Not all cookies are equally suited for shipping. Drop cookies, like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin, tend to fare well in transit, while thinner, crispier varieties like lace cookies might not withstand the journey as effectively. To ensure your cookies arrive in perfect condition:
Allow them to cool completely before packing.
Pack them in an airtight container. For added protection, start by lining the shipping box with bubble wrap or packing paper.
Place the container in the box and fill any empty spaces with packing material to prevent movement during transit.
Label the box with “Fragile” to encourage careful handling. While not guaranteed, this can sometimes prompt a little extra caution from handlers.

Final Thoughts: Mastering the Art of Homemade Food Gifting

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these homemade food gifts are a delightful way to show your affection and care. They’re not just treats; they’re memories in the making, tokens of appreciation, and a reflection of your thoughtfulness. So this holiday season, or any time you feel like spreading some joy, turn to these recipes and let your culinary creativity shine!

If you would like information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.

For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

If you’ve tried any of these DIY food gifts or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.

Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!

Red 5-inch square baking dish with One Dish Kitchen branded paper sleeve around it.

Make 100+ Recipes With This Dish!

Ideal for home chefs, this individual square ceramic baking dish is safe for oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher. Simple to use & easy to clean!

Welcome!

Iโ€™m Joanie and Iโ€™m incredibly happy youโ€™re here! Our aim is to inspire individuals with access to single serving recipes, education, and a supportive community that will enable them to enjoy the preparation of a meal that will nourish both body and soul.

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6 Comments

  1. Catherine Nickle says:

    Have you developed a small fruit cake recipe? I grew up with both a dark and white fruit cake around Xmas time. Would love your input on this. Every recipe in cookbooks gives a large fruitcake.

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      Thank you for reaching out! Currently, we don’t have a small fruit cake recipe on our site, but I love your suggestion. I’ll definitely add it to our list of potential recipes to develop in the future. Stay tuned!

  2. Evelyn Wallace says:

    Thank you for such a wonderful idea. I love your smaller recipes and Iโ€™m sure my family and friends will too! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. ๐ŸŽ„๐Ÿงง๐ŸŽ‰

  3. Kristin H Payne says:

    I loved these small batch recipes. Do you have any more??

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      Yes. We create only single serving and small batch recipes on our website, One Dish Kitchen. We have hundreds and hundreds of them here on our website.

  4. Peggy says:

    I tried the half batch cowboy cookies! They are delicious
    . I made them sugar free and gave some yo my diabetic sister and some to a friend who was having family in for Xmas tomorrow.