After spending many years watching the joy that comes with making things with your own hands (think the tons of bread David has made over the years!), I’ve decided to (cautiously!) dive into that world for some new Chanukah traditions. I’m leaning in to (some) homemade gifts this year.
A good bottle of olive oil is already special, but infusing it at home makes it feel intentional. Add sprigs of rosemary, thyme, garlic, or a few chili flakes to a clean bottle. Pour in high-quality extra virgin oil and let it rest a few days. Wrap the neck with a linen ribbon for the sweetest finishing touch. Dikla taught me how to do this years ago and it’s something we continue to love.
2. Savory Latke Mix Jar (Herbs + Garlic)
A cozy, classic twist on the traditional latke. Layer flour, baking powder, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a little black pepper into a mason jar. Add a handwritten tag that says, “Just add potatoes + eggs,” and you’ve got a gift that feels warm, familiar, and very Chanukah. It looks beautiful layered in the jar and makes weeknight latkes incredibly easy.
3. Homemade Spice Blends
Za’atar, everything-bagel spice, sweet chai spice, or a savory latke seasoning — all look beautiful in small jars. Package a set of three for an easy, thoughtful gift.
4. Beeswax Chanukah Candles
Rolled beeswax candles are simple to make and smell like warm honey. Bundle eight candles with twine and add a tiny tag: “Bring a little more light.” This can also double as a great craft to do with your own kids for your chanukiot.
5. Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Combine cocoa powder, powdered sugar, a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom, and mini marshmallows. Spoon into a jar, add a wooden scoop, and it instantly feels festive.
6. Winter Spice Sachets
Little muslin bags filled with cloves, dried citrus peel, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom. Pop them into drawers or cars for a soft, cozy scent all season long.
7. Baked Goods Gift Box
I didn’t come from the world of sourdough bread without taking a bit of that love with me. Think mini challahs, a loaf of great sourdough or some sourdough rolls. Wrap each piece in parchment paper and nestle everything into a kraft box. Add a simple note and you’re done.
8. Homemade Winter Granola Blend
A warm, crunchy, homemade granola is such a sweet, unexpected gift. Mix oats, pecans or walnuts, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, and dried fruit. Bake until golden and package in jars or kraft bags. Add a handwritten label for a little extra charm.
9. Flavored Sugars
Vanilla sugar, citrus sugar, espresso sugar — they take just minutes to make and feel beautifully elevated. A tiny jar goes a long way. Think sugar cookies! Rim a cocktail glass! Add to your coffee!
10. Chanukah Lights Reflection Cards
A small stack of printed cards for each night: gratitude prompts, candle numbers, simple reflections. Tie them with linen ribbon. It’s a gentle, meaningful tradition to gift another family.
11. A Jar of Fresh-Baked Cookies
Sometimes the simplest gifts are the most loved. Bake a batch of your favorite cookies — chocolate chip, cinnamon sugar, or something a little more festive — and pack them into a glass jar lined with parchment. Add a small ribbon or a handwritten note, and you have a warm, personal gift that feels like home.
Homemade gifts don’t have to be complicated. They can be small, thoughtful, and quick to make. I love that thought goes into each gift.
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