5 Christmas Gifts that won't Break the Bank this year

We seem to spend more and more each year on Christmas Gifts.

With most of the world still in recession, it is important more than ever this year for most of us to watch what we are spending this Christmas.

Here are 5 great ideas on how we can cut back while still putting a smile on our loved ones faces on Christmas morning.

Chocolate covered Crystallized Ginger

This is great for anyone with a sweet tooth and is so much nicer than any bought from the shops

Home made Bath Bombs

These take a little time to prepare and need time to dry thoroughly so you need to plan a head but you personalize them with the favorite perfumes and oils of the gift recipient. You could even add dried rose petals.

Write a Poem

It doesn't have to be great prose but if it comes from the heart and says what you feel then it will be treasured for ever.

Print it out on good quality paper with an artistic background and then place it in nice frame to finish it off.

Jams and Chutneys

Chutneys typically need time to mature so if you've left it too late a Jam would be a quicker alternative. There are lots of recipes out there for quick, simple and glorious tasting home made jams that would make a Christmas Gift

Once made fill a nice jar (make sure to seal properly) and then print out a decorative label to stick on.

Home made sauces or dressings

Do you have a great recipe for a homemade sauce or dressing that everyone raves about?

Why not bottle it and give it as gifts this year.

For instance I make a delicious balsamic vinegar and honey sauce that makes a great accompaniment to pork.

Its a very simple recipe and usually changes each time because I never write it down and just make it from memory.

Basically its 2 parts balsamic vinegar, 2 parts honey, 1 part vegetable oil and a generous pinch of black pepper.

Place all ingredients in a pan over a medium heat stir to combine and allow to reduce until thick like a sauce.

Leave to cool and then place in a sterilized bottle seal and label.

I hope this has given you some ideas as to what you could give to you loved ones as Christmas Gifts this year.