How to Build Your Own Food Hamper

A hamper packed with great food and drink is a gift that always hits the mark. Whether it's for a birthday, Christmas, a thank-you, or for whatever reason, a well-curated hamper feels thoughtful, and indulgent.

You can keep it simple or go with a theme. From the chocoholic to the cheese-lover, or the aspiring chef, the beauty of a food hamper is that it can be tailored to suit anyone

When to gift a hamper

Food hampers make great gifts for all kinds of occasions. Here are some of the instances where a hamper makes the perfect gift:

Christmas and birthdays
Housewarmings and new parents' gifts
Weddings or anniversaries
Thank you’s and congratulations
Corporate gifts or leaving presents

Because you can customise them to suit the recipient or the moment, they’re a reliable crowd-pleaser and they show that you’ve gone the extra mile.

What to include in your hamper

Aim for around 5 to 12 items for a balanced, generous feel without overwhelming the recipient. A good mix of products will make the hamper feel complete and more exciting to open.

Here’s a simple framework to follow:

1. Hot Drinks

Tea or coffee are classic staples, such as roasted blends, loose leaf teas or premium hot chocolate.

2. Sweet Treats

Biscuits, shortbread or fudge all work well. Go for indulgent flavours or something with a handmade touch.

3. Chocolate

Bars, truffles or filled chocolates are always a winner. You can mix and match different types for variety.

4. Drinks

A bottle of wine, bubbles or craft spirits can elevate your hamper. For alcohol-free options, try artisanal cordials or sparkling soft drinks.

5. Savoury Snacks

Nuts, crackers, olives or posh crisps help balance the sweet and give people something to graze on.

6. Condiments

Chutneys, jams, relishes or pickles are perfect for rounding off the hamper and adding depth of flavour.

7. Optional extras

Add something special like a wedge of artisan cheese, a jar of local honey, or speciality pasta. This is your chance to make it feel truly unique.

Tips for a Standout Hamper

Stick to a theme: For example, Italian pantry, afternoon tea, local produce, or luxury night in. A focused hamper can feel more cohesive.
Pay attention to presentation: A sturdy wicker basket or reusable box lined with paper or straw adds a sense of occasion. Arrange items by size and weight so everything is visible and secure.
Balance indulgence and practicality: Include one or two “wow” items alongside some reliable favourites. It’s a gift, so think about what your recipient wouldn’t usually treat themselves to.
Mind the shelf life: If your hamper won’t be handed over immediately, choose products with a reasonable expiry date.

Creating a hamper is as enjoyable as receiving one. Keep the focus on quality, balance, and a little bit of indulgence, and you can't go wrong.

Create a Hamper

At Jarrolds, you can buiid your own hamper here – even adding non-food items for that special touch. If you’re looking for further help assembling a hamper, you can visit our friendly team in the Jarrolds Food Hall, or email them at [email protected]. They’ll help you choose from the range of options available.

If you'd prefer to pick something off the shelf, we offer a carefully chosen selection of pre-made gift hampers to suit different tastes and occasions. These take the guesswork out and still feel just as special.