Page 18 - North Haven Magazine Issue 36 Holiday 2024

Gifts Made with Love

IN KITCHEN

THE

by Sally Brockett
olidays and special occasions are associated
Hwith distinctive foods all around the world.
Each country has their specialties, which usually
depend upon the holiday or special event. Not only
do countries have their favorite foods, but families
also have traditional foods that become a must-
have for certain occasions. As we approach the hol-
iday season, let’s look at some of these foods that
may be made as gifts or just enjoyed by your family.

Lots of types of cookies freeze well and an assort-
ment of cookies on a decorative platter makes a
great gift for a hostess, a friend or packaged and de-
livered to someone serving our country away from
home.

MASON JAR GIFTS
It is fun to prepare a set of gift jars that contain the
ingredients for something special. There are many
BAKED GOODS recipes available for cookies, soups, trail mix, grano-
The lingering smell of freshly baked breads, cookies, la, sourdough starter, candied nuts, brownies, etc.
cakes and other goodies is quick to stir up mem- Or, if you enjoy canning, you can make pickles, sauc-
ories of favorites from childhood. We all enjoyed es, jellies, jams and fruit butters to share with your
coming home after someone had baked something neighbors, family and other friends. Mason jars are
fresh. Many things can be prepared ahead of time also great to use for making assorted teas, soaps
and frozen until it is time to either use them at and bath salts.
home or give them as a gift. Just be sure to wrap
them well with freezer-safe products so they re-
mains fresh.

If you are a gardener and have lots of surplus zuc-
chini, you can make zucchini bread and have it fro-
zen and ready for the holidays. I have used the fol-
lowing recipe for years because it freezes so well
and is just as fresh when it is thawed and slightly
warmed before serving.

ZUCCHINI BREAD
3 eggs, 1 ½ cups sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp salt
2 cups flour, 1 Tbsp cinnamon, 2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder, 1 cup raisins
2 cups grated zucchini Mason jars do not need to be used just for food
items. If you need a gift for someone who loves
Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat eggs well, add remaining scrapbooking, put together an assortment of items
ingredients. Stir to mix well. DO NOT use a mixer. Stir in often used for this craft. A collection of beauty prod-
zucchini and raisins. Pour in greased and floured 9X12” ucts is another idea for the young and older girls on
baking pan. Bake 55-60 min. Cool 20 minutes then re- your list.
move from pan.

18 North Haven Magazine - Holiday Issue 2024