Beyond the Food Gifts: Mulling Spices
I have been handcrafting Christmas gifts for as long as I can remember. Back in the days before I was a Diva, I always gave food gifts- anything from homemade fudge, truffles, or peppermint bark to beer bread and gourmet trail mix. But now I like to give gifts that are aligned with my Diva lifestyle. Not only do these gifts keep me from sampling too many imperfect truffles, but they are also healthier for my friends, family, neighbors, and kids’ teachers too.
I’ve shared my ideas with you over the past 3 years, so in keeping with tradition, I’m excited to share this year’s idea with you too.
MULLING SPICES
Who doesn’t love the aroma of citrusy mulled cider or hot spiced wine? These little sachets of spices make a festive home fragrance too. You can even mull some apple cider vinegar to make a deliciously spiced vinaigrette for a holiday salad. Best of all, these sachets are very affordable and easy to make.
You’ll need:
*32 ct. 3”x5” muslin bags
You can find these muslin bags at Monteray Spice Company http://www.herbco.com/p-445-muslin-herb-bag-3×5.aspx
*3 lbs of mulling spices
I bought 5lbs of mulling spices from Monteray Spice Company http://www.herbco.com/p-1153-mulling-spices.aspx but only used 3 pounds. I’ll use the remaining bags to scent my home by simmering on the stove top throughout the season.
*Labels
I love to use Evermine for my labels. They have countless beautiful designs to choose from, but you could create your own at home.
*Gift label– I seleced “Snowflake Policy” 2.25″ x 3.5″ tall oval label in the color Seaglass https://www.evermine.com/all_labels/preview/SPNW07-65/
*Instruction label -I used “Snowflake Policy” 2” circle text label in the color Seaglass https://www.evermine.com/all_labels/preview/TLNW12-65/
I added this text: “To Make Mulled Cider or Wine: Heat 1/2 gallon of cider or wine in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat. Add the contents of this pouch, and allow the mixture to simmer, but not boil, for twenty to thirty minutes until it has warmed through. Add a splash of brandy or sugar to taste (optional). Strain liquid into mugs, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. Serve hot, and enjoy!”
*Cardstock paper to mount labels
*Ribbon
*32 Cellophane bags
Directions: Fill muslin bags with spices and put in cellophane bags. Mount labels on card stock. Thread ribbon through the labels and use it to tie off bag.
For more non-food gift ideas, see my posts from years past below. Happy giving!
2013 Bath Salts http://pcosdiva.com/2013/11/bath-salts-beyond-the-food-gifts/
2014 Lavendar Linen Spray http://pcosdiva.com/2014/11/lavender-linen-spray/
2015 Homemade Vanilla http://pcosdiva.com/2015/09/non-food-holiday-gift/
Resources:
Monteray Spice Company
Evermine
