Melissa Clark on Delicious Gifts to Make and Give

New York Times food columnist and cookbook author Melissa Clark talks about delicious treats to make and give for the holidays, and answers listener questions.

Sweet and Spicy Candied Nuts

These fragrant, glossy candied nuts make the perfect holiday gift when scooped into a pretty glass jar and tied with a silky, bright ribbon.

Makes 5 cups

1 cup light brown sugar
1 large egg white
1 pound mixed nuts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Large pinch cayenne pepper
Pinch ground clove

1. Preheat the oven to 300° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg white. Add the nuts and toss to combine. In a separate bowl, stir together the salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne, and clove. Sprinkle the mixture over the nuts and toss well.
3. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake, tossing occasionally, until nuts are fragrant and almost dry to the touch, about 30 minutes.

Fromage Fort

A lovely gift is to pack this creamy cheese spread into a pretty terrine with a cover and make the vessel part of the present. You can use any cheeses in any combination, but keep in mind that a little blue cheese goes a long way.

Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 1/2 cups

1/2 pound mixed cheese bits (remove rinds before weighing)
2 ounces unsalted butter, softened (4 tablespoons)
1 small garlic clove, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup dry rose or white wine
2 tablespoons chopped chives
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.