There’s just something about fall that makes you want to give people things. Maybe it’s the cozy vibes. Maybe it’s the cinnamon-scented everything. Maybe you just need an excuse to buy a bunch of pumpkin-flavored snacks “for someone else.” Whatever the reason, a fall-themed gift basket is a ridiculously easy way to spread a little seasonal cheer.
Whether you’re putting together a thank-you for your kid’s teacher, a birthday treat for your PSL-obsessed bestie, or a just-because surprise for your favorite neighbor, this list has you covered.
We’re talking cozy picks, delicious treats, and creative little touches that feel thoughtful (even if you pulled it together in 15 minutes with help from Target and Trader Joe’s).
Grab a basket (or literally any cute container), pile in the fall goodness, and let’s get gifting.
Fall Gift Basket Basics
Before you start tossing pumpkin spice everything into a basket and calling it a day, here are a few simple tips to help your gift look thoughtful, pulled together, and not like you just panic-shopped the seasonal aisle at 9 p.m.
Start with a Solid Base
You don’t need a fancy wicker basket (though go for it if that’s your vibe). A wooden crate, metal tin, mixing bowl, or even a cute storage box works just as well—and sometimes becomes part of the gift itself.
Tip: Check out your local thrift store for baskets and containers.
Add a Filler Layer
Crumpled paper, tissue, shredded kraft paper, or even a folded scarf can help prop things up and fill out the space. It makes the whole thing look fuller and more intentional.
Stick to a Color Palette
This isn’t mandatory, but a consistent color scheme—think burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep green, cream—can make everything look more cohesive without much effort.
Mix Up the Contents
The best baskets have a little variety. Try to include:
- Something to eat (snack, treat, or mix)
- Something to sip (tea, cider, coffee)
- Something cozy or useful (candle, socks, mug, small seasonal item)
Wrap It Up
Clear cellophane and a ribbon always work. Or leave it unwrapped and just add a cute handwritten tag. Bonus points for using a mini pumpkin or fall leaf as decoration.
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s just a matter of picking a theme—and I’ve got plenty of those coming right up.
Cozy & Comfort-Themed Baskets
When in doubt, lean into peak fall vibes: warm drinks, soft socks, and a whole lot of carbs. These cozy gift basket ideas are perfect for anyone who deserves a little “treat yourself” energy this season.
1. Cozy Night In Basket
Everything they need for a relaxing night on the couch. Fill it with:
- Fuzzy socks or slippers
- A fall-scented candle
- Microwave popcorn
- A small blanket or throw
- A packet of hot cocoa or tea
- A good book or Netflix gift card
2. Self-Care Fall Spa Basket
Because fall is also “stay inside and do a face mask” season. Fill it with:
- Pumpkin or apple-scented bath bomb or body scrub
- Sheet masks or under-eye patches
- A cozy headband or scrunchie
- A mug + tea or herbal latte mix
- Mini lotion or lip balm
- A fall-themed nail polish
3. Comfort Food Basket
For the person who likes their self-care with a side of carbs. Fill it with:
- Gourmet mac and cheese or soup mix
- Artisan bread or cornbread mix
- Apple butter or jam
- Seasonal snacks (cheese straws, trail mix, caramel popcorn)
- A tea towel, baking utensils, or wooden spoon
4. Fall Book Lover’s Basket
Curl-up-and-read energy in basket form. Fill it with:
- A cozy novel or fall-themed mystery
- A cute bookmark
- A candle or book light
- A snack-size treat (dark chocolate, biscotti)
- A warm drink mix or coffee
- A lap blanket or fuzzy socks
Fall Holiday & Occasion Baskets
These baskets are tailor-made for those “what do I bring?” moments—whether it’s a dinner invite, a fall birthday, or a classroom party where you forgot to sign up but still want to look like you have it together.
5. Thanksgiving Hostess Basket
Because showing up empty-handed to Thanksgiving is frowned upon—and this is more fun than another bottle of wine. Fill it with:
- A fall-scented candle
- Flavored nuts or gourmet snack mix
- A jar of cranberry chutney or jam
- A tea towel with a cute fall saying
- A thank-you note or recipe card
6. Back-to-School Teacher Basket
Fall + caffeine = survival. Fill it with:
- A coffee shop gift card
- A travel mug or seasonal tumbler
- Trail mix or granola bars
- Sticky notes or fun fall pens
- A handwritten note from your kid (seriously, they love that)
7. Fall Birthday Basket
For the fall babies who just get cozy season. Fill it with:
- A candle or small self-care item
- A birthday treat (cookie, cake pop, cupcake-in-a-jar)
- A cozy pair of socks or scarf
- A notebook or seasonal stationery
- A “treat yourself” snack or drink
8. Halloween Treat Basket
Great for friends, neighbors, or teens who are technically too old to trick-or-treat but still want snacks. Fill it with:
- Candy, obviously
- Halloween socks or a themed mug
- A not-so-scary movie DVD or streaming gift card
- Glow sticks or spooky nail polish
- Hot cocoa mix and marshmallows
9. Game Day Snack Basket
Perfect for fall sports fans (or snack fans—same thing). Fill it with:
- Chips, dip mix, or pretzels
- Soda or local craft beer
- Popcorn or snack mix
- A team-themed item (napkins, koozie, mini flag)
- A reusable snack bowl or tray
Fall Gift Baskets for Kids & Families
These baskets are perfect for cozy nights in, school rewards, fall birthdays, or just because your neighbor’s kids helped rake your leaves and totally deserve a caramel apple (or three).
10. S’mores & Stories Basket
Instant fall night magic—just add a fire pit (or microwave).
Fill it with:
- Graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows
- A few skewers or roasting sticks
- A cozy fall-themed children’s book
- A fleece throw blanket
- A flashlight or headlamp for reading outside
11. Family Movie Night Basket
Make staying in feel like an event. Fill it with:
- A DVD or digital movie code (fall-themed or family favorite)
- Popcorn and popcorn seasonings
- Candy or trail mix
- Hot cocoa packets
- A popcorn bowl
- Cozy socks for everyone or extra large blanket
12. Craft & Cocoa Basket
For when it’s too chilly to play outside (or you just need 30 minutes of quiet). Fill it with:
- Mini pumpkins or wooden shapes to paint
- Washable paints, markers, stickers
- A fall-themed coloring book
- Hot cocoa mix + fun mugs or straws
- A sweet treat (cookies, muffins, or mini marshmallows)
13. Mini Pumpkin Painting Kit Basket
Messy in the best way. Fill it with:
- A few small pumpkins
- Non-toxic paint pots and brushes
- Stickers, glitter glue, googly eyes
- A plastic tablecloth or craft mat
- A cute note with painting prompts (“Make a silly face!”)
14. Fall Fun Night Basket
A little of everything, perfect for a family with mixed ages. Fill it with:
- A game (card game, puzzle, or fall trivia)
- Fall snacks (popcorn, cookies, cider mix)
- A simple craft or sticker activity
- A candle or essential oil roller for chill vibes
- A notepad for writing favorite fall memories or a gratitude list
Fall is the season of cozy vibes, warm drinks, and finding any excuse to give people thoughtful little things wrapped in ribbon.
Whether you’re making a basket for a teacher, a best friend, a neighbor, or just because someone survived a week of soccer practice and school drop-off lines, there’s something here for every kind of fall mood.
Grab your goodies, pick a theme, and go make someone’s day a little more pumpkin-spiced.
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