Purim Is Almost Here: 10 Creative Mishloach Manot Ideas You’ll Actually Want to Give

If up until now you’ve been telling yourself, “There’s plenty of time until Purim,” consider this your friendly wake up call. Purim is coming fast, and you’ve got less than two weeks to pull together your mishloach manot. And yes, costumes too.

The stores are already overflowing with baskets, cellophane, wrapping paper, and sweets. Now comes the real question: are you going with the familiar candy and snack package again this year, or are you ready to switch things up?

There is nothing wrong with a classic, snack filled mishloach manot. Honestly, when your list is long, it is often the most practical option. Still, it is worth choosing at least one person to surprise with something a little more personal and thoughtful. Maybe it is for your mom. Maybe for a close friend. Or maybe for that neighbor you argued with last week and would love to make peace with. Pick at least one recipient and give them something made with extra intention. Here are some ideas to inspire you.

1. Pesto and vegetables: a comforting gift for someone you want to pamper

In a sea of candy and soda, this one will stand out in the best way. It feels homemade, thoughtful, and full of care.

How to make it:

• Slice fresh vegetables into thin sticks.
• Add a container of homemade pesto, or buy a high quality one if you prefer.
• Pack everything together neatly and include a personal note.

2. Yogurt and dried fruit: healthy and stylish

How to make it:

• Mix dried fruits like apricots, figs, and raisins, and pack them in a glass jar or small box.
• Add a jar of plain yogurt.
• Include honey or date syrup if you like.
• Wrap everything in a small wicker basket 

3. Picnic basket: for those who love eating outdoors

How to make it:

• Use a simple wicker basket or a picnic basket with a lid.
• Add a wholegrain loaf, good cheeses, a glass bottle of fresh juice, a small tablecloth, reusable cutlery, and cloth napkins.
• For extra charm, include a deck of cards or a small book.

4. Spa kit: for those who never leave the shower

How to make it:

• Along with a bottle of wine and homemade cookies, add bath and body treats like creams, soaps, oils, candles, and small towels.
• Since this is likely for someone close, feel free to include a funny card. The water bill breakdown is optional.

5. Coffee kit: for serious caffeine lovers

How to make it:

• Add a nice mug, spoon, fresh coffee beans or ground coffee, sugar, a small container of milk, and cookies.
• If you want to go all out, include a small coffee grinder.
• Pack everything in a wooden box

6. Tea infusion kit: for wellness and tea lovers

How to make it:

• Choose loose leaf herbal infusions from a market or health store.
• Add pretty cups, spoons, and a fine mesh strainer suitable for infusions.
• You can include honey or sugar for sweetness.

7. Travel kit: for the always on the move crowd

How to make it:

• If you enjoy crafting, create a small suitcase shaped box and decorate it with travel stickers.
• If not, a nice decorative box works just fine.
• Add a bottle of wine, cookies, and a warm personal note.

8. Breakfast kit: for the always tired

How to make it:

• Pack a fresh muffin, a bottle of milk, and a bowl filled with fun breakfast cereal.
• Add a note wishing a good morning and a happy Purim.

9. Joy kit: for anyone who needs a boost

How to make it:

• Go bold with colorful packaging.
• Add fresh fruit in a variety of colors and cookies to match.
• Most important, include a heartfelt note with encouraging words.

10. Gardening kit: for balcony plant lovers

How to make it:

• Add cookies and a bottle of wine, along with a mint plant, a small gardening tool, and a decorative pot.
• Pack everything in a wooden crate and include a note connecting Purim to growth and renewal.

Have more creative mishloach manot ideas? Share them in the comments.

Happy Purim.