I remember when my infatuation with olive oil desserts began. I saw an article on Food52 for olive oil gelato. One word: drool.

So last week, as I browsed the web for great holiday gift ideas that come from the kitchen, I found this Hazelnut and Olive Oil Spread with Chocolate by Giulia of the wonderful Italian/English blog, Juls’ Kitchen.

This spread is made of rich dark chocolate and ground hazelnuts, and it gets a depth of fruity flavor from good, Italian extra virgin olive oil.

It’s ideal for making in large batches and portioning into decorative glass jars. Just a few holiday-appropriate embellishments, like red ribbons or a hand-written tag, and you’re well on your way to being the favorite gift-giver of the 2012 holiday season.

What are your favorite homemade gifts to give for the holidays?