What's Cookin, Chicago?: 5 Quick Breads for Holiday Food Gifts

While many folks are making cookies for the holidays, here's another idea that may save you some time. Sweet quick breads are a great alternative to cookies. You can knock out a few mini loaves with one recipe, making it easy to bake in individual loaf pans. Once they're baked and cooled, wrap up with some festive cellophane and ribbon for an easy and delicious food gift. You can even include freezing instructions so your recipients can enjoy it even after the holidays. In addition to the recent Zucchini Bread I made, here are 5 Quick Breads for Holiday Food Gifts to try out this season...

* To freeze these quick breads, allow them to bake and cool completely. Wrap each loaf well in plastic wrap and then in foil. Place in freezer bags and freeze. To defrost, allow the loaves to thaw to room temperature and heat up in the oven if desired.

Classic Vanilla Pound Cake

A favorite any time of year, this pound cake is a classic that's best as is...