No matter what a person’s hobby or passion, a gift basket is a clever and thoughtful gift. Filled with a variety of items, the basket not only allows them to indulge, but also encourages them to broaden their experiences with new and unusual gifts. Coffee lover baskets are simple to create and can range from exotic to humorous to decadent, any of which will delight a coffee connoisseur.
Coffee Lover Gift Baskets: The Basket
A woven basket is the traditional way to package a range of themed gifts, but is not the only choice. For a coffee lover, an antique or spare coffee pot is a clever presentation that can be found inexpensively at any thrift store. An oversized mug is appropriate for a smaller gift, or a decorative bowl can be found in any size. An empty coffee can is another novel choice. Any container can be personalized with colored ribbon or painted a rich brown or other coffee shade such as cream or mocha. For extra creativity, witty sayings, coffee pictures, or the person’s name can be painted on the container.
Before filling the basket, line it with shredded paper or other cushioning to be sure that different items are attractively displayed without being lost or damaged. Shredded coffee filters (unused, of course), or coffee labels coordinate well with the theme. For a more elegant presentation, try dark brown paper or gold tissue. Mixing different papers creates a rich texture, but be sure the filling will not detract from the gifts.
When arranging the gifts, larger items should be placed in the back or center of the basket so they do not obscure other gifts. Always place identifying labels so they are visible and the person does not need to disassemble the package immediately in order to appreciate the selection. Small items may need to be corralled with ribbons or wrapped together so they are not lost in the filling. If necessary, the entire package can be wrapped in tissue or plastic wrap so nothing is misplaced.
Coffee Lover Gift Baskets: The Coffee
No coffee gift basket is complete without a selection of tasteful blends. Gourmet and specialty coffees are available from coffee shops in single serving packets, and choosing different flavors allows the recipient to indulge in different tastes. Try to include customary favorites as well as new blends they might enjoy. The entire selection could be themed, such as choosing international coffees or holiday blends, depending on the occasion.
Some of the most unique coffee gifts are the easiest to find. If the individual travels frequently, they will appreciate a small jar of their favorite instant coffee or a bag of gourmet roast. For any selection, be sure to include creamer or coffee flavoring, as well as sugar packets if the recipient prefers them. Another unique twist is to include a gift certificate from a local coffee shop instead of the actual coffee.
If you are preparing several gift baskets, it is more economical to purchase large bags of different coffees. Use small bags or plastic wrap to create individual portions, and tie each with a festive ribbon and label. Different amounts of each coffee can be added to different baskets to personalize them for each recipient’s taste.
Coffee Lover Gift Baskets: Other Edibles
True coffee connoisseurs rarely sip coffee by itself; including a selection of cookies, muffins, or other gourmet treats encourages additional indulgence. Biscotti and shortbread cookies are particular favorites for coffee drinkers, since they can be dipped in the beverage for further enjoyment. A gift certificate for donuts or other baked treats is a humorous yet appropriate choice as well.
Flavored coffee stirs are delightful treats, but be sure to select flavors compatible with the coffee selection. Chocolate-dipped spoons are a delectable addition to any gift basket, and can be easily made with plastic spoons and melted chocolate chips. Use a combination of white, milk, and dark chocolate spoons for more variety, or drizzle one type of chocolate on top of another for a truly gourmet appeal.
Old fashioned candy sticks are another type of coffee stir that coordinates well with gift baskets. Rum, toffee, cream, and berry flavors are most compatible with different coffees, and candy canes or mint sticks add a festive accent to holiday gifts.
Coffee-flavored candies are another unique option to include with gift baskets. Chocolate-covered coffee beans are available at many candy stores, and coffee or mocha hard candies can be sprinkled throughout the basket. Chocolatiers often offer espresso or mocha truffles that take coffee indulgence to an extreme, and such a treat is a delicious addition to any gift.
Many coffee lovers also enjoy other hot drinks, and a choice of gourmet cocoa or tea packets adds variety to the gift. As with sample coffee packets, cocoas and teas are available in exotic and seasonal flavors that can be personalized for the recipient’s preferences.
Coffee Lover Gift Baskets: Coffee Novelties
Anyone with a true passion for coffee will enjoy novelty items highlighting their obsession. Coffee-themed magnets and bookmarks add a humorous touch, while a coffee scoop or small grinder is a necessary accessory for java experts. Coffee scented candles add richness to the gift, and a coffee lover’s quote book or anthology will be appreciated while sipping delicate brews. Of course, any coffee lover would enjoy a personalized mug with their name, profession, hobby, or simply an admission of their coffee addiction emblazoned for all to see. Travel and thermal mugs are appropriate choices for commuters or frequent travelers as well. No matter which novelties you select, be sure to choose which ones are most appropriate for the recipient – a bookmark wouldn’t be much use to someone who does not enjoy reading as much as they love coffee, for example.
Whether a coffee lover prefers exotic blends or simply cannot function each morning without a mug, a themed basket is a perfect gift. Coffee treats, edibles, and novelties can be selected to match an individual’s tastes, and such thoughtfulness will be appreciated from the first morning cup to the last evening indulgence.
