If you’re active on social media, you’ve likely heard the phrase “sweet treat” making the rounds over the past year—and yes, it means exactly what you think it means! People are all about capping off a busy day with a delicious dessert, which is by no means a new concept (and something that I’m happy to see trending). With the holidays right around the corner, now is the perfect time to brush up on your sweet treat making skills. Whether you’re attending a few holiday parties and are in need of a hostess gift or are looking to drop off something small with your immediate neighbors, you can’t go wrong with whipping up some festive baked goods. 

Baking at the holidays is a favorite activity. For years, I would get together with my best friend and we would have a two day-long cookie bake off. It was not a competition (I promise!) but a time to come together and make treats for our friends and neighbors. It was the most fun two days I had every year! 

I am not generally a baker throughout the year, but when the holidays roll around, I get so excited about flipping through the latest issues of my favorite magazines for ideas and inspiration. There are a few trusty favorites I come back to year after year, too, including pumpkin bread, boozy cherry chocolate cookies, and pecan caramel cake (I use my grandmother's recipe). You can never go wrong with some classic sugar cookies, either—recruit your little ones to help you decorate them with icing and sprinkles. 

Once I’ve whipped up my baked goods, I get to work perfecting their presentation. Usually, I’ll wrap treats in cellophane with a beautiful ribbon on top. I also include a heartfelt note of gratitude. 

Rather than relying on plastic or paper plates, I suggest going thrifting or vintage shopping in search of some cute serving plates or trays (whether holiday-themed or more generic) that are more substantial and aesthetically pleasing. This is a great way to elevate your gift, and your friends and family members will think of you as they utilize this plate or tray throughout the year. Best of all, this means that your neighbors won’t end up with a stray plate of yours and worry about whether or not they’re supposed to return it to your kitchen!