If you need a last minute gift that will be well received, think about making some inexpensive homemade candies. Homemade candy can be a bit more festive than the usual Christmas cookies but just as inexpensive. Stick with recipes that are simple but delicious in order to spend the least amount of time and money to create your gifts. Plus, since candy can be very rich, you don’t have to make too much of it to still have a significant gift.
You will need something to use to hold and present your homemade candy gifts, so start there. Many pretty tins can be had at thrift stores and garage sales. Target and other stores sell plastic name brand containers that are decorated and disposable. Make sure to use sales and coupons if you purchase those.
Small baskets or mugs can also make nice packaging for homemade candy gifts.
As far as homemade candy recipes go, there are many out there, from family favorites to sophisticated. Visit websites and libraries for new recipes to try. Some of the easiest recipes that also yield the least expensive homemade candy include: Ohio Buckeyes, which are basically peanut butter rolled around chocolate, chocolate covered pretzels (with sprinkles, nuts, etc), fudge (Carnation even makes an inexpensive fudge kit that gives you everything you need to create a pan of chocolate fudge), peppermint bark melt white chocolate, spread it in a pan and add crushed candy canes, snowballs, chocolate dipped fruit, peanut brittle (you can find some microwave recipes), salted caramel, turtles (made with Rolo candies) and more. Pick a few to try.
For a really quick candy gift, and I’m talking assembling it in the car while you are on your way to the party, grab a couple of small mason jars and fill them with colorful candies. Add a fabric swatch in the lid and a ribbon around the front. Glass mason jars can be had second hand, or purchased inexpensively at your grocery store.