The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide 2024: 60+ Hand-Picked Ideas for Every Loved One

The much-anticipated annual holiday gift guide is finally here, and this year it’s bigger and better than ever! We’ve meticulously compiled over 60 thoughtful and unique gift ideas, designed to make your holiday shopping a breeze and ensure you find the perfect present for everyone on your list. Instead of scattering ideas across multiple posts, all our top recommendations for the season have been gathered into this one comprehensive master guide.

Within these pages, you’ll uncover an array of fun, creative, and incredibly practical gifts, carefully categorized to help you navigate with ease. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned chef, a cozy homebody, a burgeoning baker, or someone passionate about sustainable living, we’ve got you covered. Dive into categories like:

• Food & Cooking Gifts Under $75: Delight the palates and kitchens of your loved ones without breaking the bank.
• Practical Clothing & Home Goods: Thoughtful items that enhance comfort and utility in everyday life, including unique edible delights.
• New & Timeless Cookbooks: Inspire culinary creativity with the latest releases and enduring classics.
• Well-Tested Kitchen Splurges: Investment pieces that promise to elevate any kitchen and last a lifetime.
• Zero & Low-Waste Gifts: Sustainable choices that are kind to the planet and bring lasting joy.

What makes this guide truly special? Nearly all the items featured here are ones I personally own and have rigorously tested, or have lovingly purchased and gifted to others (these are clearly marked with a * asterisk for your assurance). For items not in my personal collection, I’ve conducted thorough research and included only those with overwhelmingly positive reviews and strong recommendations. My goal is to offer you a trusted resource for truly exceptional gifts.

As always, I sincerely hope this year’s gift guide empowers you to discover unique, practical, and truly cherished gifts for your family and friends, making this holiday season extra special and filled with joy. For even more inspiration, you can explore all my previous years’ gift guides right here.

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Food & Cooking Gifts Under $75: Thoughtful Culinary Delights

Elevate their kitchen adventures and tantalize their taste buds with these expertly curated food and cooking gifts, all priced under $75. Perfect for the home chef or the gourmet enthusiast in your life, these items are sure to inspire delicious creations.

1. Joyce Chen Carbon Steel Wok* – Investing in this carbon steel wok was an absolute game-changer for my kitchen, and it will be for yours too! Its incredible heat retention and versatile design mean it’s perfect for much more than just stir-fries; think deep-frying, steaming, smoking, and even braising. This wok quickly becomes a go-to pan for a vast array of delicious dishes. Just remember to follow the seasoning instructions diligently to build a durable, naturally non-stick surface that will only improve with time.
2. Rancho Gordo Bean Box* – For the bean connoisseur or anyone who appreciates gourmet ingredients, this sampler box from Rancho Gordo is a dream come true. Widely regarded as offering the best dried beans in the world, this collection features five of their most beloved varieties. It’s a thoughtful gift that promises wholesome, flavorful meals and introduces recipients to the superior quality of artisanal legumes.
3. Professional Oven Gloves – Say goodbye to bulky, restrictive oven mitts! These high-performance oven gloves offer superior heat protection while providing unparalleled dexterity. Ideal for handling hot pans, roasting dishes, or even grilling, they allow for a much better grip and control than traditional mitts. A practical upgrade for any kitchen, ensuring safety and precision.
4. Ground Up Holiday Tasting Flight Nut Butter Sampler* – I gifted this delightful nut butter sampler to my sister last Christmas, and she absolutely raved about it! The flight offers a fantastic variety of unique flavors and convenient individual sizes, perfect for breakfast bowls, smoothies, or just a quick snack straight from the spoon. It’s an excellent choice for health-conscious foodies or anyone who loves to explore new gourmet spreads.
5. Escali Digital Baking Scale* – For any aspiring or seasoned baker, a high-quality baking scale is an indispensable tool. This Escali precision scale will tremendously improve their baking game and consistency, ensuring accurate measurements every time for perfect results. It’s a fundamental upgrade that makes a world of difference in the kitchen, leading to more successful and enjoyable baking experiences.
6. Jacobsen Infused Salt Six-Pack – Gift the art of flavor with this exquisite six-pack of infused salts from the renowned Oregon-based Jacobsen Salt Co. These gourmet salts add a sophisticated touch to any dish, making them a fantastic present for adventurous cooks or those who love to experiment with seasonings. I personally have my eye on their infused black garlic salt for my own pantry!
7. OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears* – A high-quality pair of kitchen shears is an unsung hero in any culinary space. These OXO shears offer robust construction and a comfortable grip, making everyday tasks like snipping herbs, cutting parchment paper, or opening packages incredibly easy. They are even strong enough to spatchcock poultry, proving their versatility and durability. A truly practical gift that makes a world of difference!
8. GIR Silicone Spatula* – These are, simply put, the best spatulas available on the market. GIR (Get It Right) spatulas are known for their incredible durability, heat resistance, and seamless design, making them hygienic and easy to clean. Available in a spectrum of fun colors, they are a joy to use for baking, cooking, and scraping bowls clean. A small but mighty gift that any cook will appreciate.
9. Award-Winning Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A premium bottle of extra virgin olive oil is one of my all-time favorite gifts to receive. This exquisite oil from a family-owned California estate garnered a gold medal in the 2020 World Olive Oil Competition, testifying to its exceptional quality and flavor. It’s a gourmet staple that elevates any meal, perfect for the discerning chef or food lover.
10. Dozen Bagels from Russ & Daughters – For a truly iconic and delectable gift, send the taste of New York City with a dozen freshly baked bagels from the legendary Russ & Daughters. This is a culinary experience delivered straight to their door, perfect for brunch enthusiasts or anyone craving an authentic taste of the Big Apple. A delightful and memorable treat!
11. Ceramic Butter Keeper or Spoon Rest – These beautifully hand-thrown ceramic pieces are both lovely and practical, designed to be kept out in the kitchen all year long. A butter keeper ensures perfectly spreadable butter, while a charming spoon rest keeps countertops clean. They add a touch of artisanal elegance to any home.
12. Royal Riviera Pears* – A beloved holiday tradition in my family, Harry & David’s famous Royal Riviera Pears are renowned for their extraordinary juiciness and sweet, buttery flavor. This gift is a taste of pure luxury and a delightful seasonal indulgence that everyone looks forward to. Perfect for fruit lovers or as an elegant hostess gift.
13. Classic Italian Panettone – Continue or start a new holiday tradition with this exquisite naturally leavened Italian panettone. Crafted by Olivieri 1882, it’s widely considered one of the best available, offering a wonderfully airy texture and rich, aromatic flavor. A truly authentic and indulgent treat for sharing during the festive season.
14. OXO Good Grips Baking Essentials Set* – Give the invaluable gift of baking organization and freshness! This practical set of OXO containers is designed to keep pantry staples fresh and accessible, making any baker’s life easier and more enjoyable. It’s a thoughtful and highly functional gift that will be appreciated for its ability to streamline their baking routine.
15. Emile Henry Ceramic Pie Plate* – A truly beautiful, functional, and exceptionally high-quality pie plate from Emile Henry is an investment piece that will be treasured for generations. Its even heat distribution ensures perfectly baked crusts every time, and its elegant design makes it perfect for oven-to-table serving. A timeless gift for any baker or host.

Practical Clothing & Home Goods: Comfort and Style for Everyday Living

Discover gifts that combine comfort, style, and utility, perfect for enhancing daily life at home or on the go. These practical clothing and home goods are chosen for their quality, thoughtful design, and ability to make life a little bit easier (and cozier!).

1. Bomba Gripper Slippers – These affordable, casual slippers from Bombas have been on my radar since their release, and for good reason! Featuring reliable rubber grips for stability and available in an array of fun colors, their best feature is that you can simply toss them in the washing machine for easy care. A perfect gift for anyone who loves cozy, low-maintenance loungewear.
2. Athleta Polartec Tights* – I recently purchased a pair of these incredibly cozy, fleece-lined leggings, and they are absolutely perfect for chilly winter days. They offer impressive warmth without being bulky, making them ideal for outdoor activities or simply staying comfortable at home. With stellar reviews, these tights are a fantastic gift for active individuals or anyone seeking ultimate warmth and comfort.
3. L.L. Bean Storm Chaser Boots* – These are my absolute favorite waterproof and insulated boots. They provide incredible comfort straight out of the box, eliminating the need for a break-in period. With added grip for navigating ice and snow, they offer both warmth and security in harsh weather conditions. A durable and dependable gift for anyone who braves the elements.
4. Frontgate Resort Bath Towels* – Indulge someone with a luxurious new set of 100% Turkish cotton bath towels from Frontgate. Available in every possible color to match any decor, we recently purchased a set ourselves and can attest to their exceptional quality. Boasting over 9,000 five-star reviews, these towels offer plush softness and superior absorbency, making them a truly opulent and practical gift.
5. Waterhog Mat* – If you live in a cold climate and regularly contend with winter weather, a Waterhog mat is an absolute necessity. We own several and strategically place them throughout our home to trap dirt, snow, and moisture, protecting our floors. These durable, low-profile mats are easy to clean and practically indestructible, making them a highly practical gift for any household.
6. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag* – I’ve owned this versatile Lululemon belt bag for three years, and it has impressively stood the test of time and heavy use. It’s my go-to for everything from farmers’ market runs to dog walks, easily accommodating my bulky phone plus extra essentials. Its practical design and durable construction make it an ideal gift for anyone who appreciates hands-free convenience and reliable style.
7. Wingspan Board Game* – My in-laws recently gifted us this captivating board game, and while it takes a little time to grasp the initial complexities, it is truly beautiful and wonderfully unique. Players collect birds and build a thriving wildlife preserve, making it an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience. Read more about this award-winning game here. An excellent choice for board game aficionados or nature lovers.
8. Affordable Massage Gun* – I gifted this more budget-friendly version of a massage gun to Connor last year, and he absolutely loves it! If you or your loved ones frequently deal with sore muscles but aren’t looking to break the bank on a high-end model, this is a fantastic choice. It delivers effective relief and is surprisingly powerful for its price point.
9. Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket* – This is undeniably one of my all-time favorite outerwear pieces. I’ve owned mine for six years, and it still looks and performs as good as new. Incredibly lightweight, packable, and warm, it’s perfect for travel or everyday wear in cooler temperatures. A timeless and durable gift that combines style with exceptional functionality.
10. Custom House Watercolor Sketch – For anyone who cherishes their home or has recently moved, a custom watercolor sketch of their house makes for a truly sentimental and unique gift. It’s a beautiful way to capture memories and add a personal touch to their decor, celebrating the place they call home.
11. Weighted Blanket – Offer the gift of ultimate comfort and calm with a weighted blanket. These blankets are renowned for their soothing, anxiety-reducing properties, providing a gentle, comforting pressure that promotes relaxation and better sleep. Plus, many are stylish enough to be left out as a chic throw. Need I say more?
12. Handloom Linen Table Runner – Add a touch of rustic elegance to any dining table with a beautifully hand-sewn linen runner. This simple yet sophisticated piece instantly elevates table settings, making it a wonderful gift for hosts, home decorators, or anyone who appreciates quality textiles.
13. Farmhouse Pottery Mug Gift Set (or anything from this ceramic guide!) – As a self-proclaimed pottery aficionado, I can assure you that you absolutely cannot go wrong with a gift from this category. This Farmhouse Pottery mug set, or any piece from their collection, offers artisanal craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Perfect for coffee or tea lovers, these ceramics are made to be cherished.
14. Adjustable Ornament Storage Bag* – Make holiday decorating and undecorating a breeze with this fantastic adjustable ornament storage bag. We own and absolutely love ours! It provides secure, organized storage for delicate ornaments, simplifying the process of putting up and taking down the Christmas tree. A practical gift that brings peace of mind and keeps precious decorations safe.

New & Timeless Cookbooks: Inspire Culinary Creativity

For the home cooks and aspiring chefs, a great cookbook is a treasure trove of inspiration. This selection features the latest must-have titles and enduring classics that promise to expand culinary horizons and bring delicious meals to the table.

1. Baker Bettie’s Better Baking Book* – This book is a must-have for anyone eager to master the fundamentals of baking and gain a solid understanding of baking science. Baker Bettie breaks down complex techniques into accessible lessons, empowering readers to become more confident and skilled bakers. An invaluable resource for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
2. Cook This Book by Molly Baz* – One of my absolute favorite cookbooks of the year! Molly Baz’s debut is cleverly formatted with clear instructions and vibrant photography, packed with creative, flavorful, and approachable recipes. It’s designed to teach home cooks essential techniques while delivering incredibly delicious results. A fantastic gift for anyone looking to spice up their kitchen repertoire.
3. That Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli Music – This inspiring cookbook is filled with both weekday and weekend-specific dishes, many of which are vegetarian, and all designed to effortlessly mix up your cooking routine. Carla Lalli Music’s signature approach to simple, yet sophisticated food shines through, offering practical recipes for any time of the day or week.
4. Dessert Person by Claire Saffitz* – A truly must-have cookbook for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for baking. I adore that it’s thoughtfully formatted from easy to most difficult recipes, packed with brilliantly revamped, yet classic and nostalgic baked goods. Claire Saffitz’s meticulous instructions and approachable style instill confidence in every baker.
5. An Everlasting Meal by Tamar Adler* – I’ve cherished this book for years, and a recent re-read only reaffirmed its status as one of my favorite resource books. It reads like a captivating novel, yet offers endless practical pantry cooking inspiration, teaching readers how to make the most of every ingredient. A timeless gift for thoughtful cooks and mindful eaters.
6. To Asia With Love by Hetty McKinnon* – A wonderful new addition to my cookbook collection, this book is dedicated to everyday, approachable vegetarian pan-Asian recipes. Hetty McKinnon’s vibrant dishes are packed with flavor and inspired by her heritage, making them my favorite kind of meals! It’s a fantastic gift for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to explore delicious Asian cuisine.
7. Grains for Every Season by Joshua McFadden – The latest culinary masterpiece by Joshua McFadden, the acclaimed author of “Six Seasons,” one of my all-time favorite cookbooks. Though it releases later this month, I can already predict this will be another winner, focusing on the versatility and deliciousness of grains throughout the year. Pre-order it for the forward-thinking food lover!
8. Baking with Dorie by Dorie Greenspan – You can truly never go wrong with a cookbook by the legendary Dorie Greenspan. This latest addition to her impressive collection features her signature blend of sweet and savory recipes, always approachable and utterly delicious. The inclusion of metric measurements makes it an instant winner for international bakers or those who prefer precise scaling.
9. The Wok: Recipes and Techniques by J. Kenji López-Alt – While J. Kenji López-Alt’s highly anticipated second book won’t be released until spring, it has already secured a top spot on my personal wishlist. Known for his scientific approach to cooking, this book promises to be the definitive guide to wok cooking. Pair an IOU book order with a carbon steel wok for the ultimate gift!
10. The Korean Vegan Cookbook by Joanne Molinaro* – If you appreciate captivating storytelling combined with incredibly flavor-packed vegan Korean cuisine, you will absolutely adore this highly acclaimed debut cookbook by Joanne Molinaro. Her recipes are a celebration of culture and plant-based eating, making this a truly inspiring and beautiful gift.
11. Pasta: The Spirit and Craft of Italy’s Greatest Food by Missy Robbins and Talia Baiocchi – For anyone obsessed with pasta, this book is an absolute masterpiece. It delves into everything you could possibly want to know about pasta and more, from making fresh dough to crafting exquisite sauces. It’s an authoritative and inspiring guide for both beginners and experienced pasta makers.
12. Ottolenghi Test Kitchen: Shelf Love – It wouldn’t be an ABP Gift Guide if it didn’t include at least one Ottolenghi title! This exciting new release from the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen focuses on making vibrant, flavor-packed meals using pantry staples. It’s perfect for home cooks who love bold flavors but appreciate practical, accessible recipes. I’m definitely looking forward to adding this one to my collection myself!

Well-Tested Kitchen Splurges: Investment Pieces for the Dedicated Cook

For those truly passionate about cooking, certain kitchen tools are worth the investment. These “splurge” items are not just luxurious, but also incredibly functional and built to last a lifetime, offering exceptional performance and transforming the cooking experience. These are the tools that will be cherished and used regularly.

1. Brod & Taylor Professional Knife Sharpener* – I rarely recommend knife sharpeners, but this sturdy, stainless-steel version from Brod & Taylor is truly the best I’ve ever tried. It not only sharpens straight-edge knives to a razor edge but also offers the unique ability to sharpen serrated knives with ease. The availability of replacement sharpening bars ensures it’s a long-term investment for keeping all your knives in peak condition.
2. Ooni Koda 16 Pizza Oven* or Original Baking Steel* – I was recently gifted the Ooni Koda 16 (gas model), and wow, it utterly transforms home pizza making! While it takes a bit of trial and error to master the high temperatures, it’s incredibly easy to use and offers more cooking space than many other models, delivering authentic, perfectly charred pizzas in minutes. For a more compact option, the Original Baking Steel also creates a phenomenal crust in a standard oven. Both are incredible gifts for pizza lovers!
3. Thermapen ONE Instant Read Thermometer* – The Thermapen ONE is simply the best and fastest instant-read thermometer on the market, period. Its unparalleled accuracy and lightning-fast readings ensure perfectly cooked meats, baked goods, and more every single time. This is an essential tool for any serious cook or griller, making it an invaluable and highly appreciated gift.
4. Ember Temperature Control 14-Ounce Mug* – This innovative mug is a wonderful gift for busy parents, remote workers, or anyone prone to reheating their coffee or tea throughout the morning! The Ember mug keeps beverages at your preferred temperature for hours, ensuring every sip is as warm and enjoyable as the first. I absolutely love ours and use it daily.
5. Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender* – This is far more than just a powerful immersion blender; it also comes with a truly exceptional, high-quality small food processor attachment. I use mine several times a week for tasks like grating small amounts of parmesan, finely chopping nuts, or whipping up quick sauces and marinades. Its versatility and robust performance make it an indispensable kitchen helper.
6. Brod & Taylor Sahara Folding Dehydrator* – Crowned the king of dehydrators, this innovative model offers premium performance and a unique space-saving design, folding flat when not in use. It features a beautiful glass front for easy monitoring and consistent, efficient dehydration. An ideal gift for health enthusiasts, gardeners, or anyone looking to preserve foods and create homemade snacks.
7. Staub Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven* – An investment piece that marries beauty with unparalleled functionality, a Staub Dutch oven is crafted to last a lifetime and is beautiful enough to proudly display on your stovetop. I highly recommend a 5.5 or 7 Quart size for maximum cooking versatility, perfect for everything from slow-cooked stews to baking artisan bread. A true heirloom gift for any passionate cook.
8. Challenger Bread Pan* – For the avid sourdough baker, the Challenger Bread Pan is my absolute favorite bread-baking vessel. It’s meticulously designed to create the perfect steamy environment for exceptional oven spring and a wonderfully crispy crust. It lives up to the hype and makes a profound difference in the quality of homemade bread.
9. Cuisinart Electric Kettle* – We’ve owned this electric kettle for four years, and it remains my favorite to date. Its rapid boiling and precise temperature controls are excellent, but the keep-warm function is truly my favorite feature. It’s perfect for tea lovers, pour-over coffee enthusiasts, or anyone who frequently needs hot water quickly.
10. Smeg Retro Juicer – I’ve heard absolutely amazing things about this stylish Smeg juicer! If you know someone who adores freshly squeezed juice or enjoys crafting citrus-forward cocktails, this is a truly luxurious splurge item. Its iconic retro design also makes it a beautiful countertop appliance.
11. Sodastream Fizzi Sparkling Water Maker* – As a devoted lover of sparkling water, I absolutely adore this simple yet ingenious device. The Sodastream Fizzi allows you to make water as fizzy as you like, without requiring a plug, making it incredibly convenient. Best of all, it dramatically reduces plastic bottle waste, making it a win-win for both convenience and the environment!
12. De’Longhi Espresso Machine* – This espresso machine has consistently been featured in my gift guides for five years running, and for good reason—it’s probably my most loved kitchen appliance. I truly couldn’t live without it. It makes excellent espresso and lattes, transforming morning routines into a delightful cafe experience at home. The ultimate gift for any coffee aficionado.

Low-Waste Gift Ideas: Sustainable Choices with Lasting Impact

Give the gift of sustainability with these thoughtful, eco-conscious options. From reusable essentials to experiences that reduce environmental impact, these low-waste gifts are perfect for those who value mindful living and a greener planet.

1. MasterClass Year Membership – This is an incredible idea for anyone who is inherently curious, passionate about lifelong learning, or loves to acquire new skills. With classes taught by world-renowned experts in various fields, it offers endless inspiration and education. It would also make a fantastic gift for someone newly retired, providing a wealth of engaging content.
2. Bee’s Wrap Assorted Pack* – A fantastic and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, Bee’s Wrap is made from organic cotton, beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin. It’s reusable, washable, and compostable. This assorted pack makes for one of my favorite practical stocking stuffers, helping recipients reduce their plastic footprint in the kitchen.
3. Local Compost Membership (here’s a good resource!) – We gave our in-laws a 6-month subscription to a local composting service two years ago, and they still use it to this day! This is a wonderful, zero-waste gift that makes a huge positive impact on the environment by diverting food scraps from landfills. It’s a thoughtful present that keeps on giving.
4. Audible Gift Certificate – If you know someone who absolutely loves audiobooks or has a long commute, I truly can’t think of a better gift. I’ve heard from many recipients that an Audible gift certificate is one of the best and most appreciated gifts they’ve ever received, offering endless hours of entertainment and learning.
5. Potted House Plant (like a ZZ Plant) – A beautifully potted houseplant is a living gift that purifies the air and adds a touch of natural beauty to any home. The ZZ plant, in particular, is known for being hard to kill, making it perfect for both experienced plant parents and those new to indoor gardening. It comes in a lovely ceramic or porcelain pot, ready for display.
6. Grow Oya Ceramic Gardening Pots – For budding gardeners or those with an established green thumb, these ceramic Oya pots are a wonderful water-conscious gift. They use ancient irrigation techniques to slowly release water directly to plant roots, significantly reducing water waste and making plant care easier. A sustainable and practical tool for any garden enthusiast.
7. Airbnb Gift Certificate – Give the exciting gift of travel and exploration for 2024 and beyond! An Airbnb gift certificate allows recipients to choose their next adventure, whether it’s a cozy cabin getaway, a vibrant city apartment, or a unique experience. It’s a versatile present that promises new memories. Cheers to future travels!
8. Restaurant or Coffee Shop Gift Card – Consistently one of our most-requested gifts, you can truly never have enough gift cards to local restaurants or coffee shops. Not only are they incredibly convenient and appreciated, but purchasing them also provides vital support to local businesses in your community. A simple, yet always welcome, gesture.
9. Baking or Cooking Class – I’m a huge fan of experience-based gifts, and a baking or cooking class is always a fun and memorable one! It offers the chance to learn new skills, enjoy delicious food, and even meet new people. Look for a local culinary school or studio, or explore the many virtual classes available online for a flexible option.
10. Netflix, Apple TV, or Disney+ Yearly Membership – In today’s streaming era, a yearly membership to a popular service like Netflix, Apple TV+, or Disney+ is a practical gift that is always appreciated. It offers endless hours of entertainment, movies, and shows, making it a thoughtful way to help someone unwind and enjoy their downtime.
11. Stasher Reusable Silicone Bags* – While I’m a firm believer in using what you already have, these silicone Stasher bags are incredibly helpful and eco-friendly additions to any kitchen. We use them constantly for storing snacks, marinating, freezing, and even cooking sous vide. The sandwich and stand-up sizes are my most-used, making them a practical and sustainable gift that replaces countless single-use plastic bags.
12. Photoshoot Session with a Local Photographer – A truly special and lasting gift, a photoshoot session with a local photographer is perfect for new parents (whether of a baby or a beloved pet!), celebrating couples, or assisting small business owners with professional headshots or product photography. It’s an investment in cherished memories or valuable professional assets.

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