When it comes to neighbor gifts, food and practicality always win. We asked our audience what they actually love to give and receive — and the overwhelming answer was something homemade or thoughtful, but simple. Whether you love to bake or prefer a no-fuss option, here are a few easy, crowd-pleasing ideas your neighbors will genuinely appreciate this season.
Edible Neighbor Gifts
Gifts from the kitchen that are thoughtful, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit with neighbors.
These are the homemade favorites that make your house smell amazing and your neighbors’ hearts (and stomachs) happy. Each of these recipes is easy to make in batches, and they package beautifully for gifting:
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Blender Salsa (full recipe below!) – A restaurant-style salsa that takes five minutes in the blender and pairs perfectly with chips.
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Christmas Swig Cookies from A Bountiful Kitchen – Soft sugar cookies with a creamy pink frosting that feels festive and nostalgic.
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Cranberry Orange Star Bread from Lo's Kitchen – A stunning pull-apart bread that tastes as good as it looks.
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Buttermilk Caramel Syrup from Our Best Bites – Smooth, buttery caramel that’s incredible on pancakes, popcorn, or ice cream.
Food Packaging Essentials
The finishing touches for gifting homemade treats—practical supplies that make your food gifts look extra special.
If you’re giving something edible, a little effort in presentation goes a long way. These items make it easy to package food beautifully (and affordably):
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Cookie Boxes ($.44 each) – Perfect for cookies, candies, or small loaves.
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Bread Bags and Gift Bags ($.22 each+) – A simple and polished way to wrap homemade loaves.
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Parchment Sheets ($.04 each) – Ideal for layering cookies or wrapping treats.
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Brown Painter’s Tape ($.02/foot) – A clean, rustic way to seal boxes or label jars.
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Glass Mason Jars ($1.21 each) – Great for sauces, salsa, or caramel syrup.
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Ribbon ($1/yard+) – A finishing touch that makes everything look festive.
No Baking Required Neighbor Gifts
Simple, store-bought favorites that still feel festive and thoughtful—no baking skills required.
If you’re short on time (or just not in the mood to bake), these easy combos still make for a thoughtful, practical gift:
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Chocolates ($6.39+) – A classic everyone loves.
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Hot Cocoa or Apple Cider ($2.99+) – Add a festive mug for a cozy touch.
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Mugs ($5.33 each+) – Pair with drink mixes or a small gift card.
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Chips + Salsa + Tray ($4.62+) – A savory twist that’s sure to stand out.
Games to Share Neighbor Gifts
Fun, easy-to-learn games that bring neighbors, friends, and families together all season long.
These small, affordable games are perfect for families or couples — they’re fun to give and even more fun to play:
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Santa Cookie Elf Candy Snowman ($9.95) – A fast-paced card game that’s become a holiday favorite.
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Cover Your Assets ($19.99) – A hilarious game that’s easy to learn and loved by all ages.
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Moose Match Mayhem ($9.84) – A great pick for younger kids or family game night.
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Five Crowns ($12.99) – A card game with just the right amount of competition.
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UNO Show ’Em No Mercy ($15.11) – For neighbors who love a little chaos.
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ITO ($17.99) – A clever cooperative party game that’s surprisingly addicting.
Non-Food Neighbor Gifts
Useful, everyday essentials that feel special to receive and don’t require time in the kitchen.
For those who prefer to gift something practical, these simple items are thoughtful and functional — the kind of things everyone can use:
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Hand Soap ($4.67+) – Seasonal scents or a clean neutral.
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Dish Soap ($4.89) – Pairs well with a kitchen towel or scrub brush.
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Hand Towel ($4+) – Classic and practical.
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Batteries ($7.46) – Unexpected but always useful during the holidays.
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Wrapping Paper + Tape ($5+) – Perfect for those last-minute wrapping sessions.
