Home Holidays Christmas
Allison Robicelli
Secret Santa exchanges are a fun idea—until you realize you don't know your recipient all that well. Luckily, these Secret Santa gifts for $25 or less are here to help.
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Buying Secret Santa gifts can be stressful. Unless you know the recipient well (you might not!), it can be difficult to pick the perfect present without much insight into their personality, hobbies or interests. What do you get for someone you only know casually, like a coworker or teammate? Fortunately, we’re gift-giving experts that can point you in the right direction.
There are a few approaches to take when looking for the best Secret Santa gifts. Edible gifts are always a good idea. After all, who doesn’t love eating? Now’s the time to treat them to goodies they’ve never experienced before, whether it’s something special sourced from around the globe or a comforting, familiar favorite of yours.
Going the silly route is another sound idea. Everyone’s a kid at heart, at least a little bit, and there’s no better time to get in touch with your inner child than the holidays. They’ll love retro toys they remember from their youth or games they can play with their families and friends.
It’s also a safe bet to go with practical gifts that feel like a splurge. Everyone uses items like lip balm or soap, but how often are they spending a little extra on luxurious versions of those things? Here are some of our favorite Secret Santa gifts for this holiday season that also make great affordable gifts year-round.
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For the Soup Monster: Nessie Ladle
The best Secret Santa gifts help your recipient warm up on a chilly day. This fantastical Nessie ladle makes serving helpings of soup, chowder or chili a whimsical experience. Plus, she’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Which, dare we say it, is the greatest gift of all! See more standout presents from Amazon.
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KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME
For the Break Room Barista: Holiday Blend Ground Coffee
If your Secret Santa loves coffee, you can’t go wrong with this delightful Holiday Blend. Lavazza’s premium beans feature notes of toasted almonds and warm spice. It’s like cozying up to a warm hug every morning! Plus, the bag is decorated with adorable Rifle Paper Co. details.
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For the Road Tripper: National Parks Posters
If they’ve got a serious case of wanderlust, they’ll love these national parks art prints. Each of these 11-by-14 reproductions of vintage posters is printed on high-quality paper that’s ready for framing. They’ll receive four classic prints: Yellowstone, Zion, the Grand Canyon and Lassen Volcanic National Park. These prints come at a bargain price, too. Give them away as a set, or break them up into individual gifts.
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For the Nostalgic One: Upcycled Record Coasters
For the one obsessed with throwback tunes, make their musical heart sing—pun intended—with a set of these upcycled record coasters from Uncommon Goods. Each set contains six coasters made from assorted real records, so which genre or artist you get in yours will be a fun surprise. Handmade by an artist in Philadelphia, each one is unique and, most importantly, each one is sealed so they won’t be damaged by water or a spilled iced tea.
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For the Christmas Decorator: Woodland Wonderland Advent Calendar
Festive Secret Santa gifts send a winter wonderland directly to their door. This sweet paper Advent calendar helps your Secret Santa count down the days until Christmas with the help of a bunch of cute forest creatures frolicking in a snowy scene.
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For the Co-Worker: Tiled Monogram Mug
Coffee mugs are safe Secret Santa gifts for coworkers, but you can take it up a notch by giving this gorgeous, personalized, French bistro-style mug. It’s available in nearly every letter of the alphabet—so now there’s no longer an excuse for mixing up mugs in the break room.
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For the Guac-Star: Ridley’s Avocado Smash
There’s no greater gift than quality time with friends and family, which is why games make some of the best Secret Santa gifts. Avocado Smash! is a fun food-themed card game that’s easy for almost all ages to pick up quickly, and it’s fast-paced enough to keep everyone off their phones and on the edge of their seats.
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For the Charcuterie Cutie: Fra’Mani Salami
Everyone loves an edible gift, especially when it’s a salami as fine as this one! The brainchild of chef and cookbook author Paul Bertolli, Fra’Mani makes Italian-inspired charcuterie from humanely-raised meat from eco-friendly farms. This Calabrian-style salami has fragrant notes of toasted fennel seeds and subtle heat from hot Italian chili flakes.
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For the One Deserving of Brownie Points: Valrhona Cocoa Powder
Any home baker knows that the secret to rich, chocolaty brownies is high-quality cocoa. Give them the best of the best with this Valrhona cocoa powder. Our Test Kitchen named it their best splurge pick!
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For the Chardonnay Drinker: Edge Wine Glasses
With more than 1,500 reviews from shoppers, these Crate & Barrel wine glasses are sure to be a hit with the vino-loving friend or family member on your list. The delicate thin stems, wide cylindrical bowls and modern flat bases make them an elegant addition to any home bar or wine cart. There are four sizes to choose from, including champagne flutes should your giftee have something to celebrate this year.
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For the Crochet Queen: Complete Beginner’s Crochet Kit
Know someone who’s always wanted to get into crocheting but didn’t know where to start? This complete beginner’s kit will have them churning out blankets in no time! The kit includes five colors of yarn, 14 aluminum crochet hooks of various sizes, nine crochet hooks with ergonomic rubber grips, and plenty of small tools, such as seam rippers, needles and rulers. Take a look at these gifts for sewists as well.
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For the Farmers’ Market Frequenter: French Market Bag
They’ll look tres chic at the market with this mesh shopping bag. Its design is inspired by the vintage net bags used in French markets; this modernized version has a wide black strap that makes it comfortable to carry around. Bunched up, it can fit into the pocket of a coat or purse. When an impromptu grocery run happens, they’ll always be ready—and trendy!
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For the Cuddler: Squishmallow Mystery Box
Kids (and kids at heart) will shriek with delight when they unwrap this Squishmallows mystery box. It includes a mix of three oh-so-soft 8-inch toys that are ready for cuddling and perfect Secret Santa gifts. This makes for a great St. Nick gifttoo.
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For the Jokester: Hot Dog Phone Case
Looking for a stocking stuffer for a hot dog-obsessed husband, or a Secret Santa gift for someone who loves sausages? This hilarious hot dog iPhone case costs less than $15, and they’ll agree it’s well worth the money! Made of soft, shock-resistant silicone, it has three-dimensional features and textures, making it much more interesting than the average phone case. And if hot dogs aren’t really their thing, the company also offers cases shaped like other foods, like avocados, pears and cheese.
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For the Sweet Tooth: Rancho Meladuco Dates
You might not believe someone could get excited about dates—we had our doubts ourselves. But then we tasted these California-grown Medjool dates from Rancho Meladuco, and suddenly, all we wanted were dates for Christmas. They have intense notes of buttery, dark toffee and undertones of an aged whiskey. We knew dates were delicious, but we had no idea they could possibly taste this good. Buy one for them and one for yourself—you’ll thank us later.
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For the Wino: Tipsy Balancing Bottle Opener
They’ll never need to worry about their bottle opener going missing again because this Tipsy Balancing Bottle Opener is so stunning, that they’ll want to show it off all the time! This functional gift doubles as a piece of art, defying gravity while its chrome finish shines.
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For the Charcuterie Queen: Cheese Knife Set
If you need a gift for foodies that costs less than $10, this set of cheese knives and charcuterie utensils is the answer! Packed in an attractive box that’s ideal for gifting, it includes a thin knife for semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, a chisel for crumbly cheeses like feta or firm, waxy cheeses like Parmesan, a versatile heart-shaped knife for smooth, soft cheeses and a small serving fork. There are also four miniature forks for serving nibbles like olives and meats and four small spoons for spreads and dips.
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For the Baker: Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Extract
Need Secret Santa gifts for a baker? You can’t go wrong with a bottle of the good stuff. This 4-ounce bottle of Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon pure vanilla extract will amp up cookie dough, cake batter, buttercream and any other sweet bakes.
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For the Snail-Mail Sender: Card Set
Sending a sweet note to a friend is a guaranteed way to make their day. We love this inspirational “Send Your Feelings” card set featuring colorful cards, envelopes and stickers. Messages like “You Got This” and “The Best Is Yet to Come” are ideal for sending a pick-me-up via snail mail.
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For the Noodle Slurper: Japanese Ramen Bowl
Japanese Ramen Bowl Instant ramen becomes a fancier affair when it’s eaten in a beautiful noodle bowl like this one from Bokksu Market. Made in Japan, this extra-special bowl has a moss-colored glaze with a snow-like design. It’s dishwasher-safe, too! Buy one for the college kid who needs something nicer to eat out of than a styrofoam cup!
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For the Pet Parent: Custom Pet Ornament
For the person who can’t stop talking about her furbaby, this custom pet ornament is the way to go. Choose from a variety of bows and stain colors to create a Secret Santa gift as unique as Fido. Unwrap more holiday pet gift ideas.
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For the Cookie Monster: McConnell’s Cookies
Santa shouldn’t be the only one getting treated to cookies and milk this Christmas! McConnell’s has been famous for its rich, decadent ice cream for more than 70 years, and now the company is shipping its famous homemade cookies (perfect for ice cream sandwiches!) from coast to coast, too. We’re partial to the Peanut Butter Crunch, adorably packaged in ice cream pints, but you can’t go wrong with the Brownie or Chocolate Chunk, either!
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For the Dram Drinker: Personalized Whiskey Stones
Need a gift for a new brother- or sister-in-law or a boss you’re looking to impress? Custom whiskey stones as Secret Santa gifts are a solid choice. These stones are hand-cut from natural soapstone, which is renowned for its ability to hold a chilled temperature for long periods of time.
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For the Cluttered Cook: Spice Shelf
Tiered spice shelves are practically a necessity in the kitchen, but most are sorely lacking in the looks department. Not this three-tier spice shelf! Made from sustainable, renewable wood resources and recycled plastic, it can expand to fit the width of any cabinet but is attractive enough to be used on the countertop.
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For the Lemonhead: Dreamfarm Lemon Fluicer
A spritz of fresh lemon juice is often just what a dish needs to come alive, and this innovative kitchen tool makes it easy! The Fluicer is a citrus press that folds up flat, so instead of a bulky juicer that takes up space, they’ll have a sturdy tool that fits neatly in a kitchen drawer. Its award-winning design makes it seamless to squeeze, so it’s a great gift for grandmas who love to cook, bake or make lemonade.
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For the Animal Lover: Sloth Sponges
Doing the dishes is a drag. But these hanging sloth sponges as Secret Santa gifts will make the chore a little more fun. This set of three is ready for any soapy, scrubby mess.
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For the Christmas Movie Critic: Hot Chocolate Mix
Unlike most grocery store powders, this luxe hot cocoa drink mix is made from actual chocolate shavings that melt down into a creamy, rich beverage when mixed with hot milk. Top with homemade marshmallows for a downright decadent experience. While classic bittersweet chocolate is always a safe choice, you can also buy Williams-Sonoma hot chocolate mixes in other flavors like double dark, salted caramel and peppermint.
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For the One With a Mop: Bamboo Hair Towel
This hair towel is a luxurious item at an affordable price point! Made of bamboo viscose, it quickly wicks moisture away, drying hair naturally and reducing the need for harsh heat tools. An elastic loop keeps it secure, so they can keep their hair up and out of the way while applying makeup, getting dressed or laying on the couch for a few hours of binge-watching before bed. Need another last-minute gift idea? Amazon Prime is your new best friend.
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For the Breakfast Club: Mini Snowflake Waffle Maker
Breakfast lovers, rejoice! This adorable mini waffle maker has everything your recipient needs to whip up a snow day breakfast. This clever gift for cooks makes adorable 4-inch waffles in mere minutes. Pass the syrup, please!
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For the Person Who’s Always Cold: Blanket Scarf
The coworker or friend who’s always cold will enjoy unwrapping this oversized blanket scarf. Available in over a dozen colors and patterns, this pretty accessory is ideal for any occasion.
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For the Chocoholic: Truffle Gift Box
Chocolate is one of the safest Secret Santa gifts you can buy. And this truffle gift box from Seattle Chocolate adds a whimsical, festive spin. We love the window-shopping packaging and assortment of delicious flavors. Malted milk ball truffle, anyone?
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For the Golfer: Personalized Tees
Fore! The golfer or brother on your squad will go bunk-ers over these personalized tees. Pick from natural wood or white tees, then add an engraving of their name, special date, cheeky saying or other text.
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For the Goal Getter: 100 Things To Do Poster
For the parents who just retired, consider this “100 Things To Do” scratch-off poster. They’ll get a variety of exciting prompts, such as “stay up until sunrise,” “switch off personal devices for 48 hours” and “learn a second language.”
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For the Tailgater: Can Cooler
Take game day to the next level with a YETI insulated can cooler. This tailgate essential holds cans of beer, seltzer or soda and keeps them ice cold for hours. Choose from over 10 pretty colors and, for an additional fee, customize with text or graphics. Talk about a great gift for beer lovers!
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For the Trendsetter: Pollastrini di Anzio Sardines Variety Pack
Tinned fish is trendier than ever (some even call it “hot girl food”), and if they’re a foodie, they’re likely acquainted with the wonders of Mediterranean sardines. This sampler set includes four tins of sustainably sourced sardines imported from Italy. Pollastrini di Anzio has been catching, hand-selecting and tinning fish in Italy since 1889.
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For the Homebody: The Hygge Game
As winter approaches we’ll be spending more time indoors, so why not keep occupied with a fun and cozy game? The Hygge Game is designed to spark conversation and bring people together. Since it doesn’t involve game pieces, spinners or other accessories, The Hygge Game can even be made Zoom-friendly for distant gatherings.
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For the Quirky Cook: Red the Crab Silicone Utensil Rest
This friendly red kitchen crab will keep their seafood boils from boiling over and their cooking tools clean. The sturdy silicone claws hold spoons for stirring, ladles for serving and tongs for lifting. Your giftee can rest him on the counter or clip him onto the sides of their stockpot.
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For the Faraway Friend: State Tea Towels
If your Secret Santa gift exchange crosses state lines, these colorful tea towels are a fun gift for far-away friends. Each includes sweet graphics and an ode to your state of choice.
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For the Entertainer: The Cheese Board Deck
For the hostess on your list, this set of 50 food board ideas is a must-own. These creative cards go way beyond basic charcuterie, with themes like “Build Your Own BLT,” “Crudit-Yay” and “Baked Brie.” Each card includes a gorgeous photo, ingredient lists and expert tips. It’s one of our favorite cheese board gift ideas!
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For the Astrologist: Zodiac Socks
Imprinted with their Zodiac sign, these comfy socks will help your friend stay cozy as she interprets her star chart. Bonus: Each pair is made with sustainable materials too.
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For the Hot Head: Pepper Jelly Set
This jelly collection is a fun and tasty choice for a spice-loving in-law or acquaintance. The spreads are delicious on plain toast, but they really come alive when served on crackers or used as a glaze on chicken or pork. Pair with some crackers and a bottle of wine for an easy, inexpensive gift basket.
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For the Puzzler: Pretty Jigsaw Puzzle
If your recipient can’t swing a trip to France, this jigsaw puzzle is a thoughtful consolation prize. It offers the soothing scene of a Paris street, complete with the Eiffel Tower in the background. Add it to a White Elephant gift exchange too.
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For the Bird Watcher: Window Bird Feeder
Want to feel closer to nature? This handy window bird feeder is a good first step. It attaches directly to glass for a personal view of cardinals, bluebirds, chickadees and more.
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For the Barbecuer: Meat Claws
Make the most of a BBQ with these hilarious meat claws. They’re designed for lifting and shredding everything from pork to chicken, plus they’re dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. This gift for grillers is one of our top picks.
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For the Flower Lover: Paper Flowers
Fresh-cut flowers only last a short while, but these pop-up flower bouquets last forever! After the recipient takes them out of the envelope, all they need to do is push up the sides and voila! A beautiful 12-inch paper bouquet in its very own vase. Made of 100% recyclable materials, it comes in four styles: Nantucket hydrangeas, tropical blooms, vividly pink tulips or buttercups with butterflies.
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For the Tea Drinker: Infuser Cup
We could all use a bit of extra self-care this year, which is why this tea infuser cup makes such a thoughtful gift. It includes a reusable strainer that the recipient can fill with their favorite loose-leaf teas.
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For the Aromatherapist: Shower Steamers
No matter who they are or what they like, everyone can use a relaxing spa treatment. Give them a spa-worthy experience at home with this set of shower steamers that they can throw in the tub to wash away the day’s stress. These tablets contain essential oils that turn their shower into an aromatherapy steam bath. They’ll find six soothing scents: Eucalyptus Mint, Citrus Grove, Lavender, Jasmine, Bergamot Spring and Chamomile.
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For the College Student: Premium Popcorn
For a crowd-pleasing snack, try this oh-so-sweet candy popcorn set. It offers a salty and sweet treat with both classic caramel and milk chocolate flavors. Harry & David is stocked with tons of other amazing Christmas presents too.
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For the Craft-Coffee Drinker: Seasonal Latte Set
Everything your giftee needs to make an amazing latte—wrapped in a cute little box. Copper Cow Coffee offers a seasonal latte set with flavors of classic, churro, peppermint, pumpkin spice and vanilla.
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For the Wintry One: Warm Mittens
These plush mittens may be even cozier than Santa’s. Lined with oh-so-soft faux fur and available in five gorgeous hues, this practical Secret Santa gift is a welcome choice.
Additional research contributed by Taste of Home Senior Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski.
Allison Robicelli
Allison Robicelli is a James Beard-nominated food and recipe writer, humorist, and the author of four (quite good) books. Her writing credits include the Washington Post, Bon Appetit, Food & Wine, Wine Enthusiast, Eater, Food52, The Takeout, and other major publications. Before becoming a full-time writer, she spent over a decade as a working chef, and was the co-owner of the acclaimed Robicelli's Bakery in Brooklyn. In addition to food and comedy, she also writes about history, parenting, and cannabis. She lives in Baltimore with her two teenage sons and four patient cats.
