I love sending food gifts for birthdays and holidays. Many of us prefer experiences and treats over more possessions, so a thoughtfully chosen edible gift is a perfect way to show you care without adding clutter to someone’s home.
Below are tried-and-true food gifts that ship nationwide in the United States. They’re great when you can’t be there in person to bake or celebrate and make a memorable alternative to a generic present.
Milkbar Cake Truffles
Milkbar cake truffles are irresistible — bite-size funfetti cake balls available in several flavors. They’re perfect for birthdays or any celebration and arrive ready to enjoy.
Milk Jar Cookies
Milk Jar cookies are some of the best I’ve had. They ship well and you can choose flavors; favorites include classic chocolate chip and chocolate peanut butter. They make a dependable gift for any occasion, and the cookies arrive fresh and ready to enjoy.
Lou Malnati’s Deep Dish Pizza
If your recipient prefers savory gifts, a shipped Chicago deep-dish pizza is a fantastic surprise. Lou Malnati’s ships nationwide and even offers a gluten-free crustless option for those with dietary needs.
Valerie Confections Toffee
Valerie Confections makes exceptional toffee with a variety of flavors. The almond fleur-de-sel is a standout, and their chocolate bars are excellent too. Small boxes make elegant gifts for chocolate lovers.
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Graeter’s is famous for massive chocolate chunks and rich, creamy ice cream. They ship nationwide in pints, so you can create a custom pack. This is a special treat that’s especially fun for fans of decadent ice cream.
Levain Cookies
Levain’s famously thick cookies have a unique texture and flavor profile reminiscent of a cookie and scone hybrid. They now deliver nationwide in multiple flavor assortments, making them an iconic gift for anyone who wants a taste of NYC.
Lady & Larder Cheese Board
Lady & Larder offers curated cheese and charcuterie kits that include everything needed to assemble a beautiful board, sometimes even including the board itself. These kits are great for gatherings or as a thoughtful, ready-to-enjoy gift.
Baked by Melissa Mini Cupcakes
Baked by Melissa makes tiny, whimsical cupcakes in creative flavors and themed packaging. They’re adorable, delicious, and a hit with kids or anyone who enjoys a playful treat.
Edible Arrangements
Edible Arrangements are a longtime favorite for fruit bouquets and chocolate-dipped fruit. With many local locations, they’re convenient for last-minute gifting and always feel fresh and special.
Cake Monkey’s Pop Pies
Cake Monkey reimagines classic childhood treats with creative twists and offers sampler packs that include vegan and gluten-free options. Their nostalgic yet inventive desserts make playful and memorable gifts.
Dana’s Bakery Macarons
Dana’s Bakery offers macarons in fun, unexpected flavors like fruity cereal, PB&J, and cotton candy. They also sell celebratory sets that can be customized with messages, making them perfect for special announcements or bridal parties.
Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding
Magnolia’s banana pudding is a crowd-pleaser and ships in multiple sizes, including larger “pantry” options. It’s an unexpected and delightful gift for fans of classic, creamy desserts.
Homeboy Baked Goods
Homeboy Industries trains and employs individuals transitioning from incarceration or gang involvement. Their bakery produces excellent pastries and cakes; ordering from them supports a meaningful cause while delivering a delicious gift.
Sugarfina Candy Bento Boxes
Sugarfina curates elegant, high-quality candies from around the world and offers customizable bento boxes. They’re a stunning option for candy lovers and work well for personal or corporate gifting.
Have other favorite food gifts you like to send? Share them below — I’m always looking for new tasty ideas to mail to friends and family.