Spice mixes are a great choice for homemade gifts from the kitchen. Put the mixture in a nice jar, and tie on a suggested usage tag with a pretty ribbon. It's unusual and quick. Mix some up for yourself while you're at it and save money while adjusting flavors to suit your personal needs. Try Magic Dust Spice Mix, Poultry Seasoning Mix, No-Salt Seasoned Salt Mix, or one of the many other spice mix recipes.

• Homemade Spice Mix Recipes and Tips
• How to Cook with Spices
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Spice Mix Photo © 2007 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

Cute and tasty little banana mini-muffins are stuffed with a cheesecake-like topping and chocolate chips. There's only one problem: These bite-sized gems are as addictive as bon-bons! It's the perfect recipe for those over-the-hill bananas. If you don't have the patience to keep unwrapping these minis, instructions are provided for standard-sized muffins as well as a sheet cake. They are great for bake sales.

• Chocolate Banana Cream Mini-Muffins Recipe
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• More Muffin Recipes
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Chocolate Banana Cream Mini-Muffins Recipe Photo © 2012 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

Lamb shanks are braised to tender perfection in onions, garlic, tomatoes, and wine on the stove-top. Do not skimp on the garlic. Cooking them whole results in a mild, nutty flavor. Serve with cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. This recipe feeds two, but it is easily doubled.

• Lamb Shanks Italian-Style Recipe
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Lamb Shanks Italian-Style Recipe Photo © 2009 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

Here we have an interesting bread pudding and coffee cake combination flavored with plump raisins and cinnamon. It is sure to please all at breakfast or dessert. Take shortcuts with pre-made sweet dinner rolls and boxed muffin mix. The coffee cake is delightfully moist without being overly sweet. Feel free to make it a day or two in advance. It tastes even better after sitting awhile.

• Bread Pudding Coffee Cake Recipe
• More Cake Recipes
• Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
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Bread Pudding Coffee Cake Recipe Photo © 2007 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.}