The holidays are just around the corner, and, if you’re like I was, you are waiting until the last possible minute to purchase presents for family and friends. Well, if you continue reading, I am going to provide you with an alternative that is manageable, fast, affordable, and you don’t have to step a foot out of your home.

Last year, I took a different approach as to what I gave my friends, and it worked out very well. Instead of going out and buying a gift I wasn’t sure if he/she was going to use or even like, I decided to give gifts I knew everyone would enjoy. So, I did some research and found many do it yourself (DIY) presents that were suitable for moms, dads, brothers, sisters, etc. In my case, I wanted to find the cheapest and easiest project out there. I came across DIY hot chocolate ornaments and thought this was such a great gift because with the holidays comes the chilly winter season, and who wouldn’t enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa this time of the year?

What you will need:

• 1 single serving package of instant hot chocolate mix (in the flavor of your choice)
• 1 clear, plastic, fillable, food safe ornament (I had some in my house that were in the packaging, but you can find them at Walmart or Target if you do not have any. They cost under $5 for an entire pack.)
• Sprinkles of your choice
• Chocolate chips (peppermint chips, white chocolate chips, etc.)
• Marshmallows ( The top of the ornament is small, so I recommend Jet Puffed Mallow Bits since they easily fit through)
• Note/tag to attach to the ornament explaining how to make the hot cocoa ( I wrote mix with 8 oz. hot water)
• Ribbon (optional) to tie around the the top

Instructions:

I recommend doing this in the kitchen since the ingredients can be easily spilled, resulting in a mess. To start, take your clean ornament and remove the top. Using a funnel, pour each ingredient into the ornament one at a time, starting with the hot chocolate mix, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and finally the marshmallow bits. After this, you should be left with a layered effect, and be able to see each ingredient. Place the top back on, and you are done! If you have a ribbon, this is the time to add it, and personally, I think it looks more appealing. Be aware that if you shake the ornament, or move it too fast, the ingredients will mix, and it will not look as nice. This takes ten minutes to make and is a gift for anyone in the family!