Make Your Own Gourmet Gift Baskets
By: Donna Monday

Everyone loves to receive a gift basket. Corporate gift baskets are often given by businesses to their customers as a token of their appreciation. However, most gift baskets are person to person expressions of love and friendship.

You can find a great selection of online gift baskets from the very expensive to the cheap. Or, you can come up with your own unique gift basket idea and surprise a cherished friend or loved one.

It’s not difficult to make your own personalized gift baskets. Most gift baskets involve a theme.

Here are some sample ideas to get you started:

** Cookie Gift Basket – bake up some homemade cookies and enclose them in colorful plastic wrap, include a personal card or poem.

** Chocolate Lovers Gift Basket – include individual fancy chocolates, boxed chocolates, or the person’s favorite chocolate bars along with hot chocolate mix.

** Holiday Gift Basket #1 – a Christmas holiday gift basket idea could include small stocking stuffers, candy canes and homemade Christmas cookies.

** Holiday Gift Basket #2 – a Halloween holiday gift basket can be stuffed with candy, throw in some plastic skulls, spiders, cob webs and assorted creepy items.

** Wine Country Gift Basket – wine and cheese baskets are favorites, include two bottles of choice wine from your favorite winery or wine shop, add cheese and crackers.

** Coffee Gift Basket – Your favorite coffee lover will enjoy fresh gourmet ground roasted coffee (or their favorite brand), flavored creamer, cookies and a fun coffee mug.

** Italian Gift Basket – include a variety of dried gourmet pasta like spinach, whole wheat, or dried tomato, two jars of pasta sauce, fresh mozzarella and parmesan cheese, garlic bread and fancy olive oil.

** Tea Lovers Gift Basket – you can include several varieties of black tea, green tea and herbal teas, a mug and homemade butter cookies adds a nice finishing touch.

** Champagne or Beer Gift Basket - the champagne basket would be elegant: includes a bottle of fine champagne, cheese and crackers, and fancy chocolates; the beer basket includes several domestic and/or imported beers, lagers, or ales, chips, pretzels and nuts.

** Pet Gift Basket – dog and cat gift baskets are the most popular. For a dog you can include: homemade doggie biscuits or cookies, a doggie collar, doggie toys. For a cat you can include: cat treats, cat nip and cat toys.

Now you know that all it takes to make a unique gift basket that will be treasured is a little ingenuity and your personal touch.

About the Author: Donna Monday Copyright 2005 Find it Quick in a Click http://www.1MinuteSolutions.com

Ever Wanted To Make Your Own Themed Gift Baskets?
By: Donna Hamer

If you’ve always wanted to know how to make your own gift baskets, this article will give you some tips to get started. Gift baskets are such a wonderful gift and can be given for any occasion. Creating personalized themed gift baskets is a great gift to give that someone special. Gift Baskets are easy to make and a joy to give.

When creating a themed gift basket, don’t limit yourself as to the type of basket that you can create. It can be something simple and small, homemade or lots of great goodies that make a really beautiful gift basket.

Here are some unique themed gift basket ideas for children, teenagers and parents:

Teenaged Girls Gift Basket
Find a small to medium sized basket and line the basket with pink tissue paper or raffia grass. Buy a sampler pack of flavored lip glosses, powders, lotions, a makeup kit and a light sporty fragrance and artistically arrange. Don’t forget bracelets, rings, watches, earrings, and necklaces. Wrap the basket with colored cellophane and tie with a pretty ribbon and bow.

Teenaged Boys Gift Basket
Place a couple of their favorite CD’s or DVD’s in the basket along with a pocket comb, cologne, and skin care products designed for males.

Smaller Children Gift Basket
Using a medium sized basket, place a thin and soft blanket in as a liner. Select a couple of dolls, stuffed animals, cars, or whatever toys the child might enjoy inside.

Older Children Gift Basket
Big kids are wild about cartoon pencils and erasers, stickers and trading cards. Add small games (like a Game Boy along with accessories) and the latest Harry Potter book.

Infants and Babies Gift Basket
Place a soft receiving blanket in along with socks, teething rings, rattlers, and a small plush toy. Baby brush sets, clippers, bottles, and pacifiers can be added. Or make a basket filled with baby skin products and diapers.

Ladies Gift Basket
A romantic gift basket for her should include chocolates, scented candles, perfume, a framed photo of the two of you, and a handwritten poem or note.

Gift Basket for a Man

Include his favorite drink (which may be wine, beer, bottled water or a soft drink), his favorite munchies, aftershave, a handwritten poem or note and a photo for beside his bed.

About the Author: Donna Hamer is the author and publisher of eBook “101 Gift Basket Ideas”. For a Free 5 part Mini Course on how to create your own “Personalized Gift Baskets” visit http://www.101giftbasketideas.com

A Gift For Any Occasion
By: Bob Bassett

Perfect for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, or even Father's Day, holiday gift baskets step up to the plate with sports-themed baskets for him and romantic and luxurious baskets for her. There is a gift basket to suit any holiday, and the recipient is sure to appreciate your thoughtful gesture.

For Valentine's day, a holiday gift basket with chocolate, wine, and maybe a Teddy bear says "I love you." For Mother's Day, a spa gift basket full of bubble bath and scented lotions tells Mom it's her turn to be pampered. A Father's Day gift basket of snacks packed in a Craftsman toolbox gives Dad a treat and something practical he can use all year.

There are holiday gift baskets for seasonal holidays, too. Christmas brings an assortment of gift baskets, from gingerbread cookies and peppermint candies to deluxe arrangements with themes like "Twelve Days of Coffee." Easter is probably the holiday most identified with gift baskets, so it is appropriate that there are a multitude of Easter-themed holiday gift baskets with candy and toys.

For any occasion you can imagine, there are holiday gift baskets available. There are Passover and Hannukah gift baskets, and they are Kosher, too! For the Fourth of July, there are patriotic themed gift baskets. St. Patrick's Day gift baskets may include Irish beers and always include the color green.

If you can't find the perfect themed holiday gift basket, don't overlook gourmet food gift baskets or classic fruit baskets. Their popularity endures because they are appropriate to nearly every occasion. Opt for something you know the recipient will enjoy. If Dad loves chocolate, he may prefer a Godiva or Ghirardelli gift basket over a Father's Day themed basket with little or no chocolate.

Holiday gift baskets are available in a variety of price ranges, so there is something to fit every budget. For occasions when you can't be with the recipient, online retailers can deliver to most locations. Check with the retailer concerning holiday delivery, though. You may need to order early or pay extra for delivery on certain days.

Holidays are occasions to celebrate family and friends. A gift basket can let someone know that they are important and special to you. That is a feeling that will last all year.

About the Author: Bob Bassett is the owner of Unique Gift Baskets Online which offers a wide selection of gift baskets for any occasion including baby gift baskets, food gift baskets, wine and corporate gift baskets. http://www.uniquegiftbasketsonline.com

Create A Gift Basket For A Cat Lover!
By: Donna Hamer

The choice of what gift to give your family and friends can often be a difficult one. One of the best gifts that you can give is a themed gift basket. A gift basket is that one present that comes in many shapes, themes and of course price ranges. A gift basket can also be a new arrival gift idea for that family pet.

The diversity of gift baskets is never-ending. You can give a cat gourmet food gift basket (make sure they are good quality products to ensure the feline doesn’t reject the food!) or a bath and grooming necessities gift basket. In fact the list is endless.

Here is a simple basket that you can easily create yourself for that special “Cat Lover”.

Pick a basket style. I like to use either a bucket (can be used to store grooming products in) or a cat basket. There are a lot of choices on the market so choose between one with two side handles or without handles. A cat likes to feel snug in their environment so a closed in fabric padded style basket will also be well received. Make certain the basket is large enough to hold the gifts you have selected and of course if it is intended for the cat to sleep in it, large enough to accommodate that special Feline.

Choose a color that complements the cat lover's home decor. If in doubt, choose a neutral color by selecting a natural wicker basket.

Next select a variety of items that have a cat theme. When selecting the gifts for the cat lover choose items with cat themes such as cat calendars, coffee mugs, computer mouse pads, T-shirts, note cards, stationery, cat magazines, include fiction and nonfiction books and picture frames.

Select some grooming brushes and cat toys for their cat.

If you are on a budget try a small basket and include:

A photo frame, a disposable camera to take some memorable moments between the recipient and their special feline, a photo album, along with a voucher for photo finishing.

When you are finished choosing the gifts and have selected the basket, wrap the completed Gift Basket with cellophane paper and a nice ribbon to give it a finishing touch. Use shredded paper inside the basket to hold the goodies in place. Tie a humorous gift tag with a message for that added touch.

About the Author: Donna Hamer is the author and publisher of 101 Gift Basket Ideas. For a Free 5 part Mini Course on how to create your own “Personalized Gift Baskets” visit http://www.101giftbasketideas.com

Create A Gift Basket For A Dog Lover!
By: Donna Hamer

The choice of what gift to give your family and friends can often be a difficult one. One of the best gifts that you can give is a gift basket. A gift basket is that one present that comes in many shapes, themes and of course price ranges. A gift basket can also be a new arrival gift idea.

The diversity of gift baskets is never-ending. You can give a doggy gourmet food gift basket or a bath and grooming necessities gift basket. In fact the different type of gift baskets you can create is endless.

Here is a simple basket that you can easily create yourself for that special “Dog Lover”.

Pick a basket style. I like to use either a bucket or use a dog basket. There are a lot of choices on the market so choose between one with a handle, with two side handles or without handles. Make certain the basket is large enough to hold the gifts you have selected and of course if it is intended for the dog to sleep in it, large enough to accommodate the dog.

Choose a color that complements the dog lover's home decor. If in doubt, choose a neutral color by selecting a natural wicker basket.

Next select a variety of items that have a dog theme which will later be packed into the decorative basket that you have chosen especially for the recipient.

When selecting the gifts for the dog lover choose items with dog themes such as dog calendars, coffee mugs, computer mouse pads, T-shirts, note cards, stationery, dog magazines, include fiction and nonfiction books and picture frames.

Select some doggie bones and dog chew toys for the pooch or pooches.

To add a little extra to your gift basket for the Dog Lover include:
A cap with the dogs name embroidered on the front, some sunscreen for when they are out walking together and a poo catching holder for the collection bags;

If you are on a budget try a small basket and include:

A picture frame, a disposable camera to record an outing with their pooch, a record book to record events, a photo album, along with a voucher for photo finishing.

When you are finished, wrap the Gift Basket with cellophane paper and a nice ribbon to give it a finishing touch. Use shredded paper inside the basket to hold the goodies in place. Tie a humorous gift tag with a message for that added touch.

About the Author: Donna Hamer is the author and publisher of eBook “101 Gift Basket Ideas”. For a Free 5 part Mini Course on how to create your own “Personalized Gift Baskets” visit http://www.101giftbasketideas.com

Homemade Christmas Gifts From The Kitchen - Make Your Own Holiday Gift Baskets
By: Karen Ciancio

Many of us would love to give hand made holiday gift baskets. Christmas gifts from the kitchen are always welcome and Christmas gift baskets, especially home made food gift baskets, are a real treat.

It's easy to become overwhelmed by the thought of making your own holiday gift baskets but with a few easy recipe ideas it is easy to create a personalized and thoughtful hand made Christmas food gift basket.

Any of these recipes make a wonderful gift packaged in a plastic or cellophane bag with a colorful bow or in a pretty jelly jar with a fabric covered lid. Add a hand made card with the recipe attached to it and your gift is complete.

1. Herbed Beer Batter Bread Mix
To make the mix you will need:
2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano
Dash of dried dill

In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt oregano, thyme and dill. Pack this mixture into an airtight container or bag. The mix can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 month. It will make 1 loaf of bread.

Recipe to print on attached card:

For Herbed Beer Bread
Herbed Beer Bread Mix
1 can of beer at room temperature
1 teaspoon butter, melted

Place the Beer Bread Mix in a large bowl. With a wooden spoon, stir in beer just until incorporated. Scrape into greased 8"x4" (1.5L) loaf pan.

Bake in 375ºF oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until crusty and golden brown. Let stand in the pan for 5 minutes then remove to rack and brush with melted butter. Makes 1 loaf.

2. Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookie Mix
To make the mix you will need:
6 cups rolled oats
4 cups all-purpose flour
3 cups packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 pound shortening
2 cups raisins
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans

In a large bowl, stir together oats, flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, salt and baking soda. With a pastry blender, cut in shortening until crumbly.

Stir in raisins, coconut, chocolate and pecans. This mix can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 10 weeks. Makes about 5 batches of cookies.

Recipe to print on attached card:

Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies
4 cups Oatmeal Cookie Mix
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons vanilla

In a bowl, combine the Oatmeal Cookie Mix with egg, milk and vanilla until dough forms. Shape into 1 1/2" balls and place on greased baking sheets. Flatten balls with a fork.

Bake in 375ºF oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden. Remove to racks and let cool. Makes 24 cookies.

3. Spicy Mulled Cider Mix
To make the mix you will need:
3/4 cup crushed cinnamon sticks
3/4 cup chopped dried orange rind
1/3 cup whole allspice
1/4 cup whole cloves

Combine all ingredients in a jar. Makes about 2 cups.

Recipe to print on attached card:

Spicy Mulled Cider
4 cups apple juice, apple cider, or half apple juice
and half cranberry juice
2 tablespoons Spicy Mulled Cider Mix

In saucepan, combine juice and cider mix. Cover and bring to a simmer. Gently simmer for 20 minutes. Strain into mugs. Makes 4 servings.

Place a few of these gems in a wicker basket, Christmas tin or other fun and seasonal container. Fill in the spaces with wrapped chocolates, holiday napkins or a bottle of wine and you have beautiful and sure to be appreciated holiday gift baskets with that extra personal touch.

About the Author: Karen Ciancio is a cook and lover of all things food and cooking related. Her website http://www.cookingnook.com contains easy dessert recipes, plus lots of other recipes, cooking tips, measurement conversions and kitchen ideas

More Gift and Jar Mix Recipes

Friendship Tea Mix
1 (18 ounce) jar Tang breakfast drink (orange flavor)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup presweetened lemonade mix (such as Countrytime)
1/2 cup instant tea
1 (3 ounce box ) apricot Jell-O
2-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine these dry ingredients and store in an airtight container. This recipe makes 50 servings so it is perfect for dividing up and giving away as gifts. Put these directions on the gift jar:

FRIENDSHIP TEA
Use 1-1/2 tablespoons per cup of boiling water.

Hot Cocoa Mix
1 (8-quart) box instant powdered milk
1 (16 ounce) jar nondairy creamer
1 (2 pound) box Nestle’s Quik®
1 (1 pound) box confectioners' sugar

Sift sugar and mix together. Add 2 cups miniature marshmallows, if desired.

To make, fill a mug half full of mix. Add boiling water.

Swiss Mocha Mix
1 cup instant coffee
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups nonfat dry milk
4 tablespoons cocoa powder

Mix thoroughly and put into a blender a couple cups at a time and blend to a fine powder.

To make, add approximately 2 rounded teaspoons per cup of boiling water, or less, to suit your own taste.

Almond Joy Brownies Mix in a Jar
2-1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder (wipe jar after this layer)
1-1/4 cups flaked coconut, sprinkled with 1 teaspoon
almond extract and tossed to blend
3/4 cup coarsely chopped whole almonds
1 1/4 cups flour mixed with 1 teaspoon baking powder
and 1 teaspoon salt

Layer ingredients in order given in a 1-quart wide-mouth canning jar. Press each layer firmly in place before adding next ingredient.

Attach the following instructions on a gift tag:
Almond Joy Brownies
Makes 2 dozen brownies.

Empty jar of brownie mix into large mixing bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly blend mix.

Add:
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine (not diet), melted
4 eggs, slightly beaten

Mix until completely blended. Spread batter in a sprayed 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes.

Cool completely in pan, then cut into 2-inch squares.

Dreamsicle Cookie Mix in a Jar
1/2 cup powdered orange flavored drink mix, such as Tang
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1-1/2 cups vanilla baking chips
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Combine the flour with the baking soda and baking powder. Starting with the Tang, then sugar, vanilla chips and ending with the flour mixture. Layer the ingredients in a clean glass wide mouth quart-size jar. Press each layer firmly in place before adding the next ingredient.

Attach a recipe card with the following instructions to the jar:
Dreamsicle Cookies
Yields 2-1/2 dozen

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Empty contents into a large mixing bowl. Add 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 egg, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until completely blended. Roll heaping tablespoonfuls into balls. Place 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until tops are very lightly browned.

Cool for 5 minutes on the sheet then remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Potato Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar
1 cup granulated sugar
1-1/2 cups crushed potato chips
2/3 cup chopped pecans
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

In a small bowl, stir together the flour and baking powder. Layer ingredients in order given in a 1-quart wide mouth canning jar. It will be a tight fit. Press each layer firmly in place before adding next ingredient. Decorate the jar.

Attach the following instructions to the jar:

Potato Chip Cookies
Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Add: 2 sticks butter, softened, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until blended completely. Shape into balls the size of walnuts. Flatten. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 14 to 18 minutes until edges are very lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on the cookie sheets. Remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely.