Valentine's Day Printables and Gift Ideas

Love is in the air, friends. I decided to have a bit of creative fun with some Valentine's Day printables and gift ideas. I didn't want to go the traditional route of candy and processed sweets, however, so I came up with some unique DIY ideas that I think you'll adore.

HOT TEA GIFT WITH PRINTABLE

Why not package up either loose leaf tea or specialty tea bags in a creative way for a teacher or co-worker? (This printable would work with hot cocoa or a specialty coffee, too.)

I chose triangle-shaped tea bags and packaged them into mason jars.  I used a burlap topper and some raffia to make it extra-special. (You could even use a clear party gift bag. For an example of putting together gift bags with homemade toppers, feel free to visit my Holiday Hot Cocoa Kit with Homemade Stir Spoons post for inspiration.)

No-Bake Cranberry Date Energy Bites

My post for No-Bake Energy Bites was a big hit and I've received lots of positive feedback regarding the recipe.  I've tinkered around with some variations in recent weeks and wanted to share with you another version.

My husband and kids have really come to love these bites.  The kids have fought over the last one or two each time I make them.

I really encourage you to play around with what works for you ... what you like and have on hand in your own pantry.  But, this cranberry date version is scrumptious.  It seems to have a perfect texture balance ... and a fabulous balance of sweet and salty.

Yields 25 - 30 bites/balls

No-Bake Energy Bites

These have become a go-to staple in our household. I make a big batch of these amazing little balls on a regular basis. (They freeze wonderfully.) They are so handy for a quick breakfast-on-the-go option, after-school snacks and to toss into lunchboxes. They are wholesome, healthful and a huge hit with our entire family ... one of my kids' favorite homemade treats.

 

The flavor and texture of these remind me of a cross between no-bake cookies and chewy peanut butter power bars.  It takes only a matter of minutes to mix up the ingredients. Then, after thirty minutes of chilling the "dough" in the fridge, you roll the mixture into balls and you're done! Keep a batch of these in the fridge/freezer and you'll have a quick energy-booster to grab on the fly. I double or triple the recipe most of the time because they are so well-loved in the JD house. I think you'll love them, too, and I'd adore hearing from you once you try them.

Yields 2 - 2 1/2  dozen "bites" (balls).