I have two perfect homemade Christmas gifts that are so simple to make and are thoughtful and beautiful.

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Homemade Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is a staple in everyone’s pantry. It is a must have. But I just learned that it is something you can make really easily.

What You Need

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How to Make Vanilla Extract

• You are going to split your vanilla beans in half. I way over thought this and thought it had to be perfectly on a seam. Nope just take your knife to it and cut a slit across the whole bean.
• Place 3-6 vanilla beans in a jar and fill the jar with vodka or bourbon. (The internet is very mixed on how many vanilla beans you need in a bottle I have heard 2-3 and I have heard 1 per oz. This is my first go around so I will report back)
• Make sure to cover the vanilla bean with liquid or it will mold.
• Let this sit for 4-6 months giving it a little shake every week or two. This is another thing the internet is up in arms about. Some say 4-6 months some say a year. The main idea I have gotten is the longer you wait the stronger it gets.

Make it Look Cute

I made a little label on Canva, you can use my template or create your own.

Once I saved it to my computer, I printed 16 copies per page on a label I had and cut off the excess white so it fit on my bottle.
Tie a tulle ribbon on it with a cute mini ornament and it is seriously the cutest and most practical gift.

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Stove Top Potpourri

Stove top potpourri is another one of those gifts that you give to neighbors, bulk up a gift basket, or pair with a gift card to make it look festive.

It is simple to make and makes your house smell like Christmas.

What You Need

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You will also need cranberries, but it is too early in the season to link that for you.

How to Make Stove Top Potpourri

• Thinly slice the oranges and layout on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake in the oven at 200 for 2-3 hours until dried out.
• Dry out the cranberries with the same process.
• Fill jars with orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks.
• Optional: Add a scoop of mulling spices or a branch from a pine tree.

I made these and forgot to gift them last year so I have a box full of these jars that are a year old there is no sign of mold or age. If you let the fruit dry out it lasts.

Make it Look Cute

I made a little label on Canva, you can use my template or create your own.
Tie a tulle ribbon on it with a cute mini ornament and all of your friends’ homes will smell like Christmas this year.

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