You’re never too young to appreciate a good bargain. Meaghan Singleton, a mom from South Carolina, just threw an Aldi-themed birthday party for her 4-year-old daughter. That’s right—the party was grocery-themed.
The birthday girl, Saylor, is apparently obsessed with shopping at Aldi, so it was a birthday dream come true!
Courtesy Webb Trio Photography
This isn’t the first time a parent has embraced a child’s quirky retail passion for a party. Last year, a 9-year-old boy was thrown a surprise party at a Target and one toddler celebrated with a Costco-themed birthday party. We can’t blame that kid—everyone loves Costco cakes.
What Was the Aldi Party Like?
Singleton took the theme to heart and got downright clever. She made posters that looked like actual in-store signs, crafted a cash register and hung a backdrop of streamers in Aldi colors. Singleton also baked cookies to resemble quarters that are used for Aldi shopping cart deposits.
The “cart cookies” and other birthday snacks were served in the actual cardboard boxes Aldi uses to display products. Love the authenticity!
It looks like the family also served fruit, cupcakes, and a handful of other birthday party foods. The adults were served Aldi’s Winking Owl wine, which is Aldi’s answer to Trader Joe’s “Two Buck Chuck.”
If you don’t have an Aldi in your neighborhood yet, you may have a reason to start shopping soon. The retailer plans to have 2,500 stores across the country by 2022, making it the third-largest grocery chain in the U.S.
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Chocolate-Dipped Beverage Spoons
These make a cute party favor when wrapped individually in cellophane, tied with colorful ribbon and displayed in a pretty mug. To set the chocolate quickly, chill dipped spoons in the freezer. —Marcy Boswell, Menifee, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Orange Pear Jam
Full of fruity flavor, this delightful jam is a great party favor. I came up with the recipe when a neighbor gave me an armload of pears. Everyone really likes it! —Delores Ward, Decatur, IndianaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Cinnamon Caramel Apples
We used cinnamon and chocolate to give a fun and tasty twist to traditional caramel apples. Rolled in nuts, coconut or colorful candies, they’ll delight kids of all ages. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipevia xomarshmallow.com
Gourmet Marshmallows
Your guests will love celebrating—even after the party is over—with these gourmet marshmallows. They’re made with champagne and a sprinkle of edible confetti. Cheers! Shop Now
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
These chocolate-covered pretzels came from my grandma, who loves to make candy and treats for my students. I have followed in her footsteps and make these for people at work and for other family members. Wrapped in a pretty bag they make a great party favor, too. —Aimee Worth, Fair Oaks, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Three-Herb Popcorn
Try this seasoned treat for a tasty twist on plain popcorn. It’s the perfect party favor to send home with guests after a Super Bowl party or chili cook-off. Mixed nuts add crunch and flavor but are optional. —Flo Burtnett, Gage, OklahomaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce
My family is stationed in Italy with my husband, Lieutenant William Robert Blackman. William grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, and I’m from Texas, so the dish that spells “home” for us is a good ol’ barbecue. I have my own recipe for barbecue sauce that we like to pour all over sliced brisket. Eating it reminds us of weekend barbecues with our families. —Tina Blackman, Naples, ItalyGo to Recipevia teaforte.com
Tea Canisters
For a sophisticated party favor for an intimate gathering, look no further than a beautiful canister of loose leaf tea. We’re particularly fond of this brand’s award-winning Blueberry Merlot flavor. Shop NowTaste of Home
Chocolate-Glazed Doughnut Cookies
My little nieces love to help decorate these doughnut-shaped cookies. They top them with sprinkles, chopped pecans or crushed candy canes. —Jolie Stinson, Marion, IndianaGo to Recipe
Candied Pecans
I pack these easy candied pecans in jars tied with pretty ribbon for family and friends. My granddaughter gave some to a doctor at the hospital where she works, and he said they were too good to be true! —Opal Turner, Hughes Springs, TexasGo to Recipe
Olive Oil Dip
Combine a blend of herbs to create this mouthwatering mix. Plumping the herbs in water before stirring into olive oil enhances the flavor. Pair the dip with a fresh loaf of bread for an easy, elegant party favor. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipevia uncommongoods.com
Organic Honey
Celebrate your special day with something sweet—literally. These mini raw honeys, in flavors like Sweet Cherry Blossom and Black Forest Honeydew, are perfect party favors. Shop Now
Dulce de Leche Hot Chocolate Pods
Who doesn’t love a steamy mug of hot chocolate on a snowy day? Now you can give friends, neighbors, co-workers or anyone who deserves a treat the pleasure of this indulgent drink with these giftable hot chocolate pods. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Glazed Doughnut Holes
Here’s a simple recipe to create a colorful and fun breakfast—or snack! For the glaze, use any type of juice you like. The ombre coloring makes these doughnut holes a perfect party favor for a wedding or baby shower. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipe
Spicy Oatmeal Cookie Mix
Brown sugar and spice and everything nice—like cinnamon, coconut, oats and chips—are layered together in pretty jars of yummy, ready-to-bake cookie mix. It’s a quick and easy gift idea that’s appreciated any time of year. Remember to include preparation instructions and a list of any additional ingredients needed with your gift tag. – Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipevia cheryls.com
“Thank You” Cookies
Not in the mood to bake before the party? We don’t blame you. Thank your guests for coming with a tasty (yet easy!) option: Thank You Cookie Cards. Shop NowTaste of Home
Cinnamon Roll Macarons
These macarons are a fall and winter staple for me. Inspired by the classic cinnamon roll, they are a delicious treat for a cold or snowy day. These pair well with a mug of tea, and can be eaten as a dessert or just a snack. Other fillings would taste great with this—including custard, mousse, ganache or other buttercream.
—Elizabeth Ding, El Cerrito, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
I like using pretty mini muffin liners and topping these homemade peanut butter cups with colored sprinkles to coordinate with the holiday we’re celebrating. People can’t believe how simple it is to make this irresistible candy with gooey peanut butter centers. This is how to make homemade peanut butter cups. —LaVonne Hegland, St. Michael, MinnesotaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Marshmallow Pops
Making these pops is a fun activity for a children’s party because any age can participate. Customize them for holidays or special occasions by rolling them in coordinating colored sprinkles. Let guests take home their creations by wrapping the tops in cellophane and tying off each pop with a ribbon. —Marcia Porch, Winter Park, FloridaGo to Recipevia gelatoboy.com
Perfect Pints
For a summer gathering, send your guests home with a cool pint. Gelato Boy has both regular and dairy-free options in a variety of unique flavors. Shop Now
Lemon-Thyme Tea Bread
I received this recipe as part of a gift, along with a lemon thyme plant and a fresh loaf of this pound cake-like bread. Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe. —Jeannette Mango, Parkesburg, PennsylvaniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Plum Conserve
My mouthwatering conserve is a versatile gift. It makes a lovely garnish for rolls during holiday feasts, is delicious paired with cheese as an appetizer, and makes a great dessert topping for ice cream or pound cake. —Ginny Beadle, Spokane, WashingtonGo to Recipe
Rich Pistachio Brittle
Here’s a fun twist on traditional brittle. Pistachios not only add wonderful taste to the rich, buttery candy, but delicious texture. It’s a delightful party favor! —Valonda Seward, Coarsegold, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Dipped Cherry Cookies
Our seven children and four grandkids voted this festive, flavorful cookie a “keeper.” We gave a batch to our mail carrier, in thanks for trudging through so much snow, and she asked for the recipe. —Ruth Anne Dale, Titusville, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipevia doorcountycoffee.com
Coffee Bags
Late night? Your guests will appreciate waking up to find coffee in their goody bag. We love the wide selection from Door County Coffee & Tea Co., with flavors like Birthday Cake and Irish Cream. Shop Now
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods
Kids of all ages enjoy making and eating these fun treats. The decorated pretzels are a pretty gift in a cellophane bag or a glass jar. —Kay Waters, Benld, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Lemony Zucchini Bread
Flecks of zucchini give a third dimension to the popular lemon and poppy seed combination in this moist quick bread. My family loves this lemon zucchini bread at all times of the year.—Field Editor Carol Funk, Richard, Saskatchewan.Go to Recipe
Spicy Almonds
We like to venture out into the mountain range that surrounds our family cabin. These nuts never taste better than when we enjoy them together at the peak of an amazing hike. Almonds are extremely nutritious, and when dressed up with a wonderful blend of spices, they go from ordinary to awesome! —Gina Myers, Spokane, WashingtonGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Mini S’mores
Combine marshmallow creme, chocolate, graham crackers and more for a summery delight at any time of year. We love packaging them as party favors after a camping trip, too. —Stephanie Tewell, Elizabeth, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Macadamia & Coconut Caramels
I collect cookbooks from all over the world and use them to create new dishes. These smooth caramels have a scrumptious and exotic flavor. —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Three-Chip English Toffee
With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and scrumptiously rich flavor, this is the ultimate toffee! Layered on top are three kinds of melted chips plus a sprinkling of walnuts. Packaged in colorful tins, these pretty pieces make impressive gifts. —Lana Petfield, Richmond, VirginiaGo to Recipevia theochocolate.com
Fair Trade Chocolate Bars
If you want your goodies to be good for you, check out Theo’s Chocolate. Their organic, fair trade and non-GMO bars are simple yet oh-so sweet. Shop Now
Cheesy Cajun Cornbread Biscotti
This cookie is our best seller at our Christmas cookie bazaar. Everyone requests this tasty biscotti every year. It’s simple but very delicious. I will also serve it year-round alongside a meal as an appetizer. —Paula Marchesi, Auburn, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Chocolate-Dipped Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes
I created this recipe based on our family’s love of chocolate-dipped ice cream cones. Red heart-shaped sprinkles make them fun for Valentine’s Day. Vary the color to match the occasion. —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, MichiganGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Strawberry Chocolate Truffles
The ever-popular combination of strawberries and chocolate shines in these rich, decadent truffles. I often double the recipe to give as gifts. —Pat Habiger, Spearville, KansasGo to Recipe
Homemade Honey Grahams
The way my boys eat them, I would spend a fortune on honey graham crackers at the grocery store. So I decided to make a homemade version that is less processed—and less expensive. These are wonderful, although they still don’t last long. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, ColoradoGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Nuts-About-You Cookie Sticks
These cookies make a fancy meal finale that couldn’t be quicker to whip up. Start with purchased Pirouette cookies, dip in a rich creamy chocolate and peanut-butter coating, and dust with nuts or sprinkles. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Party Pretzels
Not only are these a perfect mid-morning or afternoon snack at work, they’re perfect for hungry kids just home from school. Plus, they make for fantastic party food! —Carrie Shaub, Mount Joy, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Peanut Butter Brownie Mix
I discovered this recipe in our local newspaper, and when I gave it a try, my family loved it. While you can pack the dry ingredients into any kind of quart-sized container, a glass jar lets the pretty layers show. Cover an ordinary canning-jar lid with special fabric to customize the gift for an occasion or the season. —Lynn Dowdall, Perth, OntarioGo to Recipe
Salted Peanut Rolls
A Christmas gift of homemade candy is always a hit with sweet tooths. I dip these peanut rolls in chocolate, but they’re yummy plain, too. —Elizabeth Hokanson, Arborg, ManitobaGo to Recipevia sugarfina.com
Gorgeous Gummies
Your favorite childhood snack got a grown-up twist. These chic pink bears are infused with Rosé. Shop NowTaste of Home
Rocky Road Cookie Cups
Traditional rocky road ice cream has nuts, marshmallows and chocolate. Using prepared cookie dough makes it easy to put the flavors together in these fast, kid-friendly rocky road cookis. —Charlotte McDaniel, Jacksonville, ALGo to Recipe
Chocolate-Raspberry Whoopie Pies
I’ve saved this jam-filled whoopie pie recipe for years after cutting it out of a newspaper. It’s one of my grandson’s personal favorites. —Nancy Foust, Stoneboro, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Cookies & Cream Truffle Balls
For easy truffles, I roll cookies and cream cheese into balls and dunk them in white chocolate. That’s merry and bright in one bite. —Carla Giorgio, New York, New YorkGo to Recipevia milwaukeepretzel.com
German Pretzel
A big party calls for a big party favor, and nothing is better than Milwaukee Pretzel Company’s 1-pound (and heart-shaped!) Bavarian Pretzel. Pass the Obatzda, please! Shop Now
Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls
Friends and family are always happy to receive these tasty peanut butter popcorn balls. I love making them as well as eating them! —Betty Claycomb, Alverton, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Old-Time Butter Crunch Candy
Both my children and my grandchildren say the season wouldn’t be the same without the big tray of candies and cookies I prepare. This one’s the most popular part of that collection. We love the nutty pieces draped in chocolate. —Mildred Duffy, Bella Vista, ArkansasGo to Recipe
Yellow Cupcakes
Nothing is better than homemade cupcakes. This yellow cupcake recipe makes delicious and fluffy treats. To top them, choose whatever frosting you want. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipe
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
My twist on rice crispy bars includes crunchy crushed pretzels. Then I top them with a creamy peanut butter coating and rich chocolate topping. Garnished with peanuts and even more pretzels, I don’t think I’d ever go back to plain old bars again. —Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Orange Sugar Cookies
I make these citrusy cookies for parties and special occasions, and we always get to eat the ones that don’t come out perfectly. Eventually I had to start making extra “mistakes” to keep my family happy! —Myrrh Wertz, Milwaukee, WisconsinGo to Recipe ⓘ
