Christmas food gift guide 2024: Hampers, panettone & pandoro

Christmas is that special time of year when we search for the perfect gifts for loved ones – and why not, for ourselves as well. It’s also the season to indulge in all those rich and decadent delights we might deny ourselves the rest of the year. Italian sweet traditions have taken the UK by storm, becoming a festive staple in many households, while the French continue to excel in the realm of chic pastries.

From lavish hampers to traditional panettones and pandoros, there’s no shortage of temptations to grace our tables. And now, we’re more pampered than ever, with countless online and local shops ready to deliver festive treats right to our doorsteps

Lina Stores hampers

For authentic Italian flavours that transform your festive table, look to Lina Stores. Known for over 80 years for its exceptional Italian produce, this London institution offers a curated selection of Christmas hampers. You can order online or purchase in-store, choosing from options like the Christmas Collection Hamper (£115) featuring mini panettone, mini pandoro, and infused limoncello, or the Il Natale Hamper (£80) brimming with sweet treats and savory delights. Cheese lovers can savour Parmigiano and Pecorino in the Il Formaggio Hamper (£80), while pasta aficionados can select La Pasta Hamper (£58). Each hamper highlights genuine Italian ingredients, ensuring a festive feast brimming with authentic taste and holiday cheer.

For further information and to order your Christmas hamper, visit the Lina Stores website here.

Maison Ladurée Macarons

For a chic festive indulgence, Maison Ladurée’s iconic macarons add a luxurious French flair to any celebration. With a stylish new café now open in Mayfair, there’s never been a better time to treat yourself or loved ones. Choose from elegant packaging, exquisite flavors, and convenient online ordering—including click-and-collect. Each box offers a delicate reminder that Christmas is the season to savor life’s sweetest pleasures. Consider their “Pampille” 8 Macarons Gift Box (£28.50) or the exquisite Advent Calendar (RRP £95.00) for the ultimate gourmet countdown—even if it’s already underway, it’s the perfect excuse to catch up and enjoy several days of treats at once

For more details and to order online, visit the Maison Ladurée website here.

Italia Solutions

Discover a treasure trove of Italian culinary delights through this online shop, perfect for the holiday season. Choose from iconic Italian sweets like Tre Marie Panettone (£20.99) and Bauli Pandoro (£12.99), or indulge in delightful Pocket Coffees (from £2.29). For savory preferences, add Negroni Cotechino (£9.99) and Zampone (£16.99), traditional dishes for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The selection also includes renowned coffee brands like Kimbo (£18.99 gift set), directly from Naples, and Bonomi Savoiardi (£3.29) for making authentic homemade tiramisu. Create your own hamper and bring the festive spirit of Italy right to your doorstep.

Discover more and create your custom hamper by visiting the Italia Solutions shop here.

Volcano Coffee Works

This Christmas, it’s not just about food and wine – treat the coffee lovers in your life, too. South London’s Volcano Coffee Works has curated a festive range for every taste, from simple V60 starter sets (£25) to more comprehensive brewing kits. Ethically sourced, hand-roasted beans and B Corp credentials ensure you’re gifting sustainably. With prices from £8 and options including coffee grinders, frothers, and espresso machines, you’ll find just the right brew to brighten anyone’s holiday mornings. Try the Cafetiere & Coffee Gift Set (£30) for a comforting start, or the Aeropress & Coffee Gift Set (£45) for those who prefer brewing on the go.

To explore the festive range and make a purchase, visit the Volcano Coffee Works website here.

Lola’s Cupcakes

If you’re looking to give – or eat – cupcakes or brownies this Christmas, Lola’s Cupcakes is one of the UK’s most popular bakeries known for quality and reliable delivery. Their Elf Collection Cupcake Box includes chocolate and vanilla treats topped with vanilla buttercream, chocolate fudge icing, and festive sugar decorations. Santa’s Favourite Christmas Brownies boast red, dark, and white chocolate ganache and adorable elf faces. Handmade with premium ingredients, these sweet delights can be collected in-store or conveniently posted nationwide – just leave a note if pets might find them first.

To place your order for cupcakes and brownies, visit Lola’s Cupcakes website here.

Devagiri Tea

For those seeking a serene break from the usual holiday fare, Devagiri’s artisan teas offer the perfect flavorful escape. Established in Sri Lanka since 1947 and now available in the UK, they deliver ethically sourced, field-fresh teas direct from their estate to your door. Choose from unique blends like Vanilla, Cinnamon, Cardamom Chai, and Earl Grey, all in biodegradable packaging. Every purchase supports sustainable practices and fair rewards for the community. Order online from £3.55 and enjoy free UK delivery over £20.

For further information and to purchase their artisan teas, visit the Devagiri Teas website here.

Food Desk