Welcoming Treat
So, I just moved into my condo, and this will be my first official weekend here. I wanted to go around and just introduce myself to some of the people here (I have met a few already and they are all really great) and re-introduce myself to others and while doing so, since I bake so much, I wanted to hand out little treats when I stop by (or leave them in bags if they aren't home) sometime this weekend. I was hoping that you might have some ideas for what I could make.
I want to keep the autumn/early winter theme, but avoid things like peanuts, which people might allergic too. Or anything too out there (which I have a tendency to like and try from time to time). I originally thought of the basic chocolate chip cookie, but I really would rather do *something* else. But, I want them to be relatively portable, so probably not cakes or breads (muffins maybe).
Any ideas are more than welcome!! Thank you all in advance!
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12 Comments:
how about some carrot mini cupcakes... you can leave the creamcheese frosting out and serve them in little cellophane baggies.... Super cute.
Or maybe some brown rice krispies treats... I make mine without marshmallows and use almond butter instead. They cut well into individual servings and are always very welcome.
Or even some individually packed cranberry preserves... maybe something nice to add to their Thsnkagiving spread. or to eat over ice cream too.
MadelynRodriguez at 12:06PM on 11/20/09
I'm sorry but it looks kind of desparate to me. Isn't saying "hello" and introducing yourself enough these days? If you happen to move into a New York condo, I especially wouldn't reccomend giving out baked goods. Also, building staff prefer cash tips during the holidays.
If you wanted to get to know your neighbors, maybe hold a coffee/tea session one afternoon where you can show off your baking skills, and invite them all. But be aware that it's the holiday season, so people might be busy, out shopping, or at other parties.
Ortolan at 12:07PM on 11/20/09
It's a great thought. How about gingerbread cookies?
Personally, if a neighbor (stranger) made food for me and made it so I could not refuse, it would go into the rubbish can. Yes, it's a trust issue.
Cassaendra at 12:15PM on 11/20/09
Well, it's a small complex in the Midwest (Twin Cities) and when I first moved in, one of the HOA reps came by and introduced himself and basically was telling me how much of a community it all is. Everyone is about my age, give or take, and apparently they have parties and gatherings all the time. I would like to start off on a good note and meet them all...if even just know who I live near now.
I love the idea of gingersnaps, too! But, the krispie treats might also work....hmm....
Traveller at 12:52PM on 11/20/09
Truffles are easy, and almost everyone loves them. You only have to make some ganache, chill it, and scoop out your truffles (about teaspoon sized). You can roll them in different toppings (cocoa powder, chopped coconut, holiday sprinkles, whatever will stick).
beth1 at 1:22PM on 11/20/09
Sorry, Traveller, but you've got it backwards. Your new neighbors should be welcoming you to the neighborhood (which is an acceptably polite way of being nosy about the new people) by stopping by with plates of goodies.
I'd bring a small platter of assorted homemade cookies, candies and quick-bread slices to a condo association board meeting instead. Trust me--your name will spread like wildfire through the building and your neighbors will go out of their way to say "hello" and stop by. Unless, of course, you're curious about how what your neighbors are like and how they've decorated their condos.
betteirene at 1:55PM on 11/20/09
it's sad to say, but i wouldn't bother...just let introductions play themselves out organically. (i don't trust 'stranger' food either, Cassaendra-it goes in the garbage as soon as they're out of view)
gastronomeg at 2:10PM on 11/20/09
How about some mini-loaves of pumpkin, zucchini or banana bread?
arwenb at 2:34PM on 11/20/09
Magic brownies.
sailordave at 3:38PM on 11/20/09
hm, since there is a concern about your food getting thrown away, how about a small pot of herb that you can keep by a kitchen window?
I got a pot of mums from my next door neighbor when I moved to a new neighborhood (I was touched!), and THEN I baked them madeleines for a thank-you gift.
hmw0029 at 3:48PM on 11/20/09
Sorry all you New Yorkers, but Twin Cities is home to Minnesota Nice -- people will eat anything.
But I'm with others on the idea of maybe inviting folks into your place! You could try to put on a "minnesota" meal -- bars, hot dish, state fair food on sticks -- they'll get a kick out of it! :-)
ec_washington at 4:17PM on 11/20/09
What about just having a regular housewarming, invite your friends, and include your neighbors? Put together a nice invitation to slip under their door, or whatever, and if they come they come. If they don't, then you have a cozy night with friends. No issues for allergies, food going to waste, weird conversation in the hall, etc.
Put together some deelish cocktails/wine/snacks and yer golden.
Good luck!
JeSuisJuba at 4:00PM on 11/21/09