The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide 2024: Curated Kitchen, Home & Edible Presents

A beautifully arranged selection of holiday gift items, including kitchenware, food gifts, and home goods.

Welcome to our highly anticipated annual holiday gift guide! As the festive season approaches, the quest for the perfect present can often feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve meticulously compiled an extraordinary collection of gift ideas into one comprehensive master guide, designed to simplify your shopping experience and inspire truly thoughtful giving. Whether you’re searching for incredible deals on high-quality kitchen essentials, practical items for daily living, or unique indulgences for everyone on your list, you’ll find inspiration here. We’ve focused on uncovering exceptional value, enduring quality, and items that promise to bring joy and utility long after the wrapping paper is gone. Get ready to discover amazing gifts that cater to every taste and budget, making your holiday preparations stress-free and truly special.

This year’s guide goes beyond the ordinary, offering a curated selection that reflects our favorite tried-and-true products alongside exciting new discoveries. From essential kitchen gadgets that will transform culinary adventures to cozy home comforts and delectable edible treats, each recommendation has been chosen for its ability to delight and impress. Prepare to navigate the holiday season with confidence, armed with ideas that are not only practical and fun but also deeply appreciated. Let’s dive into a world of thoughtful gifting and make this holiday season unforgettable for your loved ones.

Major Kitchen Deals & Splurges: Elevate the Culinary Experience

For the aspiring chef, the seasoned home cook, or anyone who loves spending time in the heart of their home, our selection of kitchen deals and splurges offers unparalleled quality and functionality. These are investment pieces designed to last a lifetime, promising to enhance every meal and make cooking an absolute pleasure. Don’t miss out on these rare opportunities to snag premium kitchen tools at exceptional prices.

  1. Staub 5 Quart Cocotte – This incredible deal presents an opportunity to own a piece of culinary heritage. Staub is renowned for its exceptional cast iron Dutch ovens, which are not merely cooking vessels but heirloom pieces built to endure generations. Perfect for everything from slow-cooked stews and braised meats to baking artisan bread, its superior heat retention and distribution guarantee consistently delicious results. An investment that truly pays dividends in flavor and durability, making it an ideal gift for any passionate cook.
  2. Thermapen ONE – Widely regarded as the gold standard in instant-read thermometers, the Thermapen ONE delivers unparalleled accuracy and speed. Achieving precise temperatures for meats, baked goods, candy, and more is crucial for food safety and perfect culinary outcomes. It reads temperatures in a mere second, making guesswork a thing of the past. This essential tool is currently on a major sale, a rare occurrence for such a highly acclaimed gadget. Snag it now before this exceptional offer disappears, ensuring culinary perfection every time.
  3. Ember Smart Mug – While traditional ceramic mugs hold a special place in our hearts, the Ember mug offers a revolutionary way to enjoy your hot beverages. This innovative smart mug keeps your coffee, tea, or other drinks at your preferred exact temperature for hours, ensuring every sip is as warm and comforting as the first. It’s perfect for those who savor their morning brew slowly or for busy individuals who get interrupted frequently. This is undoubtedly one of the best deals we’ve seen on the Ember mug in a long while, making it a luxurious yet practical gift.
  4. Vitamix High-Powered Blender – If you’ve been contemplating investing in a high-powered blender, now is the opportune moment. The Vitamix is a kitchen workhorse, celebrated for its robust motor and ability to produce incredibly smooth smoothies, creamy soups, silky sauces, and even grind grains or make nut butters. We’ve proudly owned ours for over a decade, a testament to its exceptional durability and performance. This appliance is not just a blender; it’s a versatile tool that unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, making it a dream gift for anyone serious about their cooking and healthy living.
  5. Brod & Taylor Folding Dehydrator – Unlock the art of food preservation with this incredible dehydrator, currently offered at $100 off for Black Friday. Its unique folding design makes it incredibly space-efficient, perfect for any kitchen size. We’ve utilized ours to create delicious homemade spices, vibrant dried fruits, healthy vegetable crisps, and so much more. This dehydrator empowers you to transform fresh produce into shelf-stable delicacies, reduce food waste, and experiment with new flavors, making it a fantastic gift for the health-conscious or creative foodie.
  6. Zojirushi Rice Cooker – Prepare to have your perception of cooking grains transformed. The Zojirushi Rice Cooker is not just for rice; it expertly handles a wide array of grains, consistently producing perfectly cooked results every single time. Its advanced technology ensures ideal texture and flavor, taking the guesswork out of tricky grain preparation. This appliance truly stands out as one of our most cherished kitchen essentials, a testament to its reliability and superior performance. For anyone who appreciates perfectly cooked grains, this is an indispensable and much-loved gift.
  7. Challenger Breadware Pan – For the dedicated sourdough baker, the Challenger Breadware Pan is an absolute game-changer. Engineered to mimic the conditions of a professional bread oven, it creates the ideal steaming environment crucial for achieving that coveted crackly crust and airy crumb. This specialized pan significantly elevates the home baking experience, making it easier to produce bakery-quality loaves. With a fantastic cyber deal running through the weekend, it’s the perfect time to treat the bread enthusiast in your life to this exceptional baking tool.
  8. Stasher Stand-Up Reusable Silicone Bags – Embrace sustainability and organization with Stasher Stand-Up Bags. These versatile silicone bags are a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic, perfect for storing, cooking (sous vide!), freezing, and even packing snacks. Their stand-up design makes them easy to fill and store, and we literally use them for everything in our kitchen. They are currently on a major sale for Cyber Monday, making it an opportune time to stock up on these durable, easy-to-clean, and incredibly practical bags for a greener kitchen.
  9. Ooni Outdoor Pizza Oven – Transform your backyard into a pizzeria with the Ooni Pizza Oven. This outdoor marvel has completely revolutionized our homemade pizza game, allowing us to create authentic, wood-fired pizzas with perfectly crispy crusts in mere minutes. It’s not just a cooking appliance; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together for fun, delicious outdoor gatherings. Currently available at 20% off, this is an exceptional gift for entertainers, foodies, or anyone who dreams of gourmet pizza at home.
  10. Breville Smart Oven – Breville appliances are synonymous with innovation and quality, and their Smart Oven is a shining example of their excellence. This multi-functional countertop oven is a true powerhouse, capable of toasting, baking, roasting, broiling, air frying, and even slow cooking with precision. Its smart features ensure consistent results, making it an indispensable asset in any kitchen, especially for those with limited space. Currently on a major sale, this smart oven is a gift that keeps on giving through its versatility and efficiency.
  11. Glass Food Storage Containers – Practicality meets elegance with these durable glass food storage containers. Ideal for meal prepping, storing leftovers, or packing lunches, glass offers a non-toxic, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional alternative to plastic. They are microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe, making them incredibly convenient for busy households. This set is a thoughtful and enduring gift for anyone looking to organize their kitchen, reduce plastic use, and enjoy their food storage solutions for years to come.

Home Goods and Clothes: Comfort, Style & Everyday Essentials

Beyond the kitchen, our gift guide extends to essentials that enhance comfort, add style, and simplify daily life. From the coziest apparel to clever organizational tools and beloved tech gadgets, these selections are designed to bring warmth, joy, and practical utility to anyone on your list. Discover items that will be cherished and used frequently, reflecting thoughtfulness and an understanding of everyday needs.

  1. Athleta Polartec Leggings – A true winter essential, these warm and incredibly cozy leggings have quickly become a staple in my wardrobe. Crafted with Polartec fabric, they offer superior insulation without bulk, making them perfect for chilly days, outdoor activities, or simply lounging in comfort. Their flattering fit and durable construction ensure they’ll be a beloved item for seasons to come. This is the lowest price and best offer I’ve encountered to date, making them an irresistible gift for anyone who values comfort and quality.
  2. East Fork Pottery Sets – We absolutely adore our East Fork pottery sets, and for good reason! Each piece is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, known for its sturdy and durable nature, designed to withstand daily use. Available in a palette of beautiful, earthy colors, they add a touch of artisanal elegance to any table setting. Furthermore, their clever design ensures they stack incredibly well, saving precious cabinet space. Use our exclusive link to get $20 off your first order, making these unique, handcrafted pieces a truly special gift.
  3. Kindle Paperwhite E-reader – For the avid reader, upgrading their e-reader experience is a gift that keeps on giving. The latest Kindle Paperwhite is currently on a major sale, offering a superior reading experience with its glare-free display, adjustable warm light, and waterproof design. It’s incredibly lightweight and portable, allowing access to an entire library of books wherever you go, without eye strain. This thoughtful gift is perfect for commuters, travelers, or anyone who loves to get lost in a good story.
  4. Blundstone Classic Boots – I finally splurged on these classic, well-loved Blundstone boots, and they’ve exceeded all expectations. Renowned for their incredible comfort, exceptional durability, and versatile style, they are perfect for everything from city streets to rugged trails. These boots are built to last and only get better with age, making them a wise investment in quality footwear. Currently, the entire site is offering 15% off, presenting a fantastic opportunity to gift these iconic, all-weather boots.
  5. Soft and Cozy Pajama Sets – There’s nothing quite like slipping into a pair of soft and comfortable pajamas at the end of a long day. These delightful t-shirt pajama sets are a favorite, known for their plush feel and relaxed fit. Available in a charming array of festive and staple colors, they make for a truly comforting and thoughtful gift. Currently at 25% off, these pajamas are an affordable luxury that promises restful nights and cozy mornings for anyone on your list.
  6. The BEST L.L. Bean Slippers – You simply cannot beat the timeless quality and comfort of classic L.L. Bean slippers. I’ve owned my pair for three years, and they have held up magnificently, testament to their superior craftsmanship and durable materials. Providing warmth, support, and undeniable coziness, they are the perfect companion for chilly mornings and relaxed evenings at home. These slippers make an enduring and much-appreciated gift that promises comfort season after season.
  7. Bombas Performance Socks – While socks might sound like a mundane gift, a high-quality pair of Bombas socks is anything but. Renowned for their exceptional comfort, innovative design (including honeycomb arch support), and incredible durability, these socks are always a welcome and appreciated gift. Furthermore, Bombas has a commendable mission: for every pair purchased, a pair is donated to someone in need. We love these affordable yet premium sets. Use our referral link to receive 25% off your order, making a practical gift also a meaningful one.
  8. Apple AirPods Pro – I honestly never anticipated how much I would love these headphones, but AirPods have truly become one of my most cherished gifts from the past few years. Their seamless connectivity, incredible sound quality, and unparalleled convenience make them indispensable for everything from listening to music and podcasts to taking calls and enhancing workouts. The freedom of wireless audio transforms daily tasks and commutes. Currently on a major sale, they are an exceptional gift for anyone seeking premium audio and effortless portability.
  9. Puzzle Sorting Trays – For the puzzle aficionado in your life, these stacking puzzle sorting trays are a wonderfully fun and incredibly useful gift. They provide an organized way to sort pieces by color, shape, or pattern, making the puzzling process more enjoyable and less cluttered. Their stackable design is also great for saving space when not in use. This thoughtful accessory is perfect for any puzzle lover, enhancing their hobby and bringing a sense of calm to their creative pursuits.

New and Loved Cookbooks: Inspire Culinary Creativity

A cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s an invitation to explore new flavors, techniques, and cultures. This year’s selection features a mix of highly anticipated new releases and critically acclaimed titles that promise to inspire both novice and experienced cooks. From specialized baking guides to everyday dinner solutions, these cookbooks are designed to become treasured resources in any kitchen library.

  1. The Perfect Loaf: The Craft of Sourdough Breads, Savory & Sweet by Maurizio Leo – If you’re a devoted sourdough fan, Maurizio Leo’s brand new and already New York Times bestselling cookbook is an absolute must-have. Maurizio, from the acclaimed “The Perfect Loaf” blog, brings his expert knowledge to print, offering a fantastic array of recipes for both savory and sweet sourdough creations. Beyond the delicious recipes, it’s packed with invaluable information, detailed techniques, and essential troubleshooting tips to master the art of sourdough baking. An indispensable guide for any serious baker.
  2. Go-To Dinners by Ina Garten – You simply cannot go wrong with an Ina Garten cookbook, and her latest offering, “Go-To Dinners,” is no exception. True to her signature style, this book is filled with fuss-free, elegant, and utterly delicious dinner recipes designed for ease and enjoyment. Ina’s dependable instructions and comforting approach make every dish achievable and impressive. It’s the perfect gift for anyone seeking reliable, crowd-pleasing meals for weeknights or entertaining.
  3. Smitten Kitchen Keepers by Deb Perelman – This much-awaited new cookbook from the beloved Deb Perelman of Smitten Kitchen is a treasure trove of recipes you’ll want to make over and over again. Deb’s signature style of approachable, comforting, and incredibly flavorful cooking shines through every page. “Smitten Kitchen Keepers” focuses on those essential recipes that become beloved staples in your culinary repertoire. A fantastic gift for anyone who appreciates real food made with passion and a touch of wit.
  4. The Woks of Life: Recipes to Know and Share from a Chinese American Family by The Leung Family – For those looking to delve into the rich and diverse world of Chinese and Chinese-American cuisine, this cookbook from the wildly popular blog “The Woks of Life” is an excellent and inspiring addition to your shelf. Written by a family of four, it shares authentic recipes, personal stories, and invaluable tips for mastering techniques. This beautifully presented book is a celebration of culinary heritage and a practical guide for expanding one’s cooking horizons.
  5. Savory Baking: A Sweet-Lover’s Guide to the Other Side by Erin McDowell – Savory baking often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves in the cookbook world, but this brilliant new book from pastry queen Erin McDowell is here to change that. Known for her expertise and accessible approach, Erin delivers an exciting collection of recipes that explore the delicious world of savory pastries, breads, and more. It’s a groundbreaking book for anyone looking to expand their baking skills beyond desserts, making it a unique and inspiring gift.
  6. Mi Cocina: Recipes and Rapture from My Kitchen in Mexico by Rick Martínez – “Mi Cocina” is more than just a cookbook; it’s a vibrant culinary journey through Mexico, inspired by Rick Martinez’s extensive travels and time spent immersing himself in regional cuisines. Each recipe is steeped in tradition and personal experience, brought to life with gorgeous photography and engaging storytelling. Filled with mouth-watering dishes and authentic flavors, this book is a celebration of Mexican food culture and a truly captivating gift for any food lover.
  7. What’s For Dessert: Sweet Treats for Every Craving by Claire Saffitz – If you know anyone who possesses a sweet tooth or loves to bake, you simply cannot go wrong with this latest title from the incomparable Claire Saffitz. Renowned for her meticulous approach and delightful recipes, Claire delivers a collection of sweet treats that are both approachable and impressive. From comforting classics to inventive creations, “What’s For Dessert” is a baker’s dream, guaranteeing endless moments of sweet indulgence.
  8. Listen to Your Vegetables: Italian-Inspired Recipes for Every Season by Sarah Grueneberg – We are eagerly anticipating snagging this much-awaited cookbook from Sarah Grueneberg, the acclaimed chef of Monteverde, one of our absolute favorite Chicago restaurants. This book promises an exquisite exploration of Italian-inspired vegetable-centric dishes, showcasing how to elevate seasonal produce with creative flair. It’s an inspiring read for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet with delicious, sophisticated recipes.
  9. Pasta: The Spirit and Craft of Italy’s Greatest Food, with Recipes by Missy Robbins & Talia Baiocchi – I’ve heard incredible things about this cookbook, and as a fellow pasta lover, I am confident it will become a staple in my kitchen. Authored by a celebrated chef, this book delves deep into the spirit and craft of making exceptional pasta, from classic shapes to innovative sauces. It’s a comprehensive guide for anyone passionate about Italian cuisine and the art of handmade pasta, promising endless delicious possibilities.
  10. 100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen, with Classic Cookies, Novelty Cookies, Brownies, Bars, and More by Sarah Kieffer – You can never go wrong with a cookie cookbook, especially one as excellent as “100 Cookies.” This comprehensive guide features an incredible array of recipes for every cookie craving imaginable, from timeless classics to innovative new creations, plus brownies and bars. It’s the perfect resource for holiday baking, everyday treats, or special occasions. Pair it with some fun cookie cutters or a set of good quality baking sheets for the ultimate gift for any baking enthusiast.

Edible Food Gifts: Delightful Tastes for the Season

Food gifts are a timeless way to show you care, offering a delicious and often consumable treat that everyone enjoys. Our selection of edible gifts ranges from homemade delights to gourmet pantry staples and festive indulgences. These carefully chosen items are perfect for hosts, colleagues, family, and friends, providing unique flavors and memorable culinary experiences that are sure to be appreciated.

  1. Homemade Salted Bourbon Caramel Sauce – There’s something uniquely heartwarming about a homemade edible gift, and this Salted Bourbon Caramel Sauce is both incredibly easy to make and universally adored. It scales up beautifully, allowing you to prepare a large batch to bottle in elegant jars for friends, family, and neighbors. This luscious, boozy caramel is perfect drizzled over ice cream, stirred into coffee, or enjoyed straight from the spoon, making it a truly personal and delicious present.
  2. Rancho Gordo Holiday Bean Box – As a proud member of the coveted Rancho Gordo bean club, I can confidently attest that their dried beans are the finest you can get your hands on. This holiday gift box is a fantastic way to introduce someone to the superior flavor and texture of heirloom beans. It’s a lovely and incredibly practical gift for any home cook or culinary adventurer, offering a taste of gourmet quality that elevates simple meals into something extraordinary.
  3. Bonne Maman Advent Calendar – Bring a touch of sweet anticipation to the holiday season with the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar. Packed with 12 delightful jars of seasonal and limited-edition jam and honey flavors, it offers a daily surprise for the palate. This charming calendar is such a fun and unique gift for anyone who loves gourmet spreads, adding a touch of festive joy to breakfast or tea time throughout December.
  4. Traditional Italian Panettone – Panettone is a quintessential Italian holiday bread, and this traditional, more affordable option is a firm family favorite. Its light, airy texture and candied fruit make it a delicious treat perfect for holiday entertaining, breakfast, or dessert. As it tends to go out of stock quickly due to its popularity, we recommend stocking up and ordering in advance to ensure you have this delightful taste of Italy for your celebrations or to gift to loved ones.
  5. High-Quality Vanilla Bean Paste – For any baker, a bottle of high-quality vanilla bean paste is an indispensable ingredient. Its rich, complex flavor, studded with real vanilla bean seeds, offers a superior aromatic profile compared to standard vanilla extract. It enhances everything from cookies and cakes to custards and creams. This gourmet staple is a thoughtful and always-appreciated gift that elevates the flavor of countless baked goods and desserts.
  6. Nut Butter Holiday Tasting Flight – Give the unique gift of discovery with a holiday-inspired nut butter tasting flight. Featuring a selection of small-batch, artisanal nut butters with festive flavors, this gift is perfect for snack enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, or anyone who enjoys gourmet spreads. It offers a delightful way to explore new taste sensations, perfect for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or enjoying by the spoonful.
  7. Brightland Olive Oil Duo – I’m a firm believer in practical holiday gifts that combine utility with elegance, and the Brightland Olive Oil Duo certainly fits the bill. This set features two bottles of exceptional quality extra virgin olive oil, presented in gorgeous, reusable bottles that look stunning on any kitchen counter. High-quality olive oil is a cornerstone of good cooking and a true culinary indulgence. This makes for a sophisticated and health-conscious gift for any home chef or food connoisseur.

Need even more ideas? Dive into our extensive collection of holiday gift guides for specific interests, or simply shop our curated selection for further inspiration and discover gifts that truly resonate. Happy holidays and happy gifting!