Gift Buckets Galore

I recently was asked by my husband to create something that he could gift to members of his team at work.  After some thought and consideration, I decided to go with a gift basket, but using a bucket instead, thinking this was a more "manly" choice.

I dipped pretzel rods in milk chocolate and added a variety of toppings (nuts, white chocolate chips, coconut, white chocolate drizzle, etc).

I then made home made caramel popcorn and sealed that first in plastic bags which were then placed into burlap bags I had sewn together and tied shut with a fabric remnant.

The biggest and most time consuming undertaking was the homemade caramels dipped in chocolate.  However, they were definitely worth the work!  They were a huge hit.

Aunt Emily's Soft Caramels
2 c sugar
1 c packed brown sugar
1 c softened butter
1 c milk
1 c whipping cream
1 c light corn syrup
1 t vanilla

Directions:  In a 4 qt saucepan combine all ingredients except vanilla.  Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and butter is melted (20-25 minutes).  Contineu cooking without stirring until candy thermometer reaches 248 degrees or a small amount of mixture dropped into ice water forms a firm ball (about 2 hours).  Note:  Usually I have to go a good bit longer than 2 hours to reach 248.  Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, pour into buttered 13x9 pan (I used glass) and cool completely.  Cut into small squares.

I added various items to each bucket as well as personalized it with a wooden monogram.

It was a huge success!  The guys loved it (especially the chocolate!)

The finished product:

Linked to:  Making Monday Marvelous, Meet Me Monday