A Gift from the Heart: My Mom’s Zucchini Bread and the Spirit of Christmas Giving
Hello There!
Christmas has a way of bringing back the most cherished memories. For me, while I am reflecting on our time in the kitchen, it’s my mom’s zucchini bread—the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the house, her hands gently mixing the batter, and the way a single loaf could make a moment feel like home. That recipe wasn’t just food; it was love baked into every slice, a little reminder that even the simplest gestures carry the deepest meanings. This was a favorite with friends and family. She always made plenty of extra because she loved having it on hand for sharing. I remember her postman, garbage collector and the UPS man always looked forward to it.
This holiday season, I wanted to share more than just the recipe—I wanted to share the heart behind it. My mom taught me that homemade gifts carry a warmth you just can’t find in a store. So, I’ve paired her zucchini bread with a few thoughtful touches: a cozy mug from my Cook It for 2 collections, a cookbook, and a beautiful basket. It’s the kind of gift that says, “I care about you,” without saying a word.
The Joy of Giving Simple Things
There’s something timeless about giving from the heart. A basket like this is simple, but it carries so much more—a story, a tradition, a bit of the giver’s own spirit. Whether it’s for a friend, a neighbor, or someone who could use a little extra love this season, these small gestures remind us of what the holidays are truly about. I have found that it really does feel better to give than to receive!
When I bake this bread, I think of my mom and the countless ways she brought joy into our lives—not through extravagant gifts but through her time, her love, and her thoughtfulness. Sometimes I can’t believe how much I have forgotten through the years. After you lose someone all those memories come flooding back. I wish I had thought more about all the goodness my mom possessed while still with me. Let that be a lesson for all of us. Cherish your Mom while you still have her!
As I wrap the bread and nestle it into the basket, I imagine the smile it will bring to someone’s face, and it feels like I’m passing on a little piece of her legacy.
Make It Your Own
Let your personality shine through if you’re inspired to create your own gift basket. Add a handwritten recipe card, a sprig of greenery for a festive touch, or even a small ornament to make it special. The magic isn’t in how much you spend but in the thought and care you put into it.
A Season to Remember
This Christmas, I hope you find ways to share your love and creativity with those around you. Whether it’s baking bread, crafting a gift, or simply spending time together, these moments are the ones we’ll treasure.
Thank you for joining me on this trip down memory lane. If you’d like to see how I create this heartfelt gift, be sure to watch my YouTube video for a behind-the-scenes look. And remember—whether it’s for two, for a crowd, or just for yourself, the best recipes are the ones shared with love.
Wishing you a Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and sweet traditions.
Lord Bless You, Michelle
Michelle Morris is a food enthusiast, passionate cook, and devoted wife who finds joy in creating delicious meals. As a firm believer in Jesus, she strives to infuse her cooking with love, kindness, and gratitude for the blessings in her life.
Mom’s Zucchini Bread
Ingredients
3 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup olive oil
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup nuts ( I use pecans but you choose your favorite)
3/4 cup golden raisins
2 tsp orange rind, grated with microplane
2 cups shredded zucchini
3 tsp vanilla
3 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease or spray your pan. you can use 2 loaf pans, a bundt pan, or mini loaf pans. Beat eggs until foamy. Add sugar, oil, and zucchini. Mix well. Add vanilla and the rest of the ingredients. Bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to an hour.
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