Gifts from the Kitchen - AVAILABLE NOW!
We all know the conundrum: What can I gift to somebody who has everything? What can I bring to a party? Home-made food presents may be just the solution: They carry a spirit of warmth, care, and a personal touch. They are a way of saying, "I thought about you; I made something special for you." And they are gifts that won’t catch dust on the shelf, be returned or re-gifted.
This book is a collection of recipes and ideas that transform ingredients into memorable gifts and irresistible party fare. Whether you are crafting a jar of special jam, assembling a cheese platter, or baking a festive pastry, creating food for others is an expression of generosity and joy, one that can brighten someone's day or elevate a party.
This book invites you to explore recipes that suit a wide range of occasions, from small gatherings to vibrant celebrations. You will find sweet treats, savoury snacks, bakes, drinks and so much more. Each recipe is designed to be reasonably easy to make, so that even the inexperienced cook has great success. Many are also very flexible, encouraging you to experiment and add your personal touch, swapping out and adjusting ingredients to your taste.
This book is designed not just to provide recipes but to inspire. It encourages you to think of your kitchen as a workshop of creativity. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just beginning to explore the world of homemade gifts and party food, here you will find ideas and techniques that invite you to slow down, enjoy the process, and make something beautiful and delicious.
An added bonus is the inclusion of guest recipes by some of my friends: Andreas Skriver Hansen, Angela Taylor, Corey & Everett Kulczycki, Janice Riegen, Kitanya Riegen, Kurt Aronson, Marisa Abascal, Renee Bachmann and Neil Gussey.
Welcome to a journey where every dish is a gift waiting to be shared, and where your kitchen becomes a hub of celebration, generosity, and love.
Testimonials
"Many years ago, Micha gifted me a jar of his wonderful red pepper relish. I can still see it’s ruby-red colour and taste its flavour, bursting with end of summer brightness – a perfect accompaniment to some cheeky pre-dinner cheese and crackers. His most recent book, Gifts from the Kitchen is a generous reminder that a homemade gift carries something no store-bought one can: time, care, and a little bit of the giver's heart. Micha’s recipes (with a little bit of help from some of his friends) will inspire you to head into your kitchen to share some love of your own. Whether it’s the perfect hostess gift, something to share with friends at Christmas, or just a little gift to yourself, Gifts from the Kitchen has wonderful sweet and savoury recipes for every gifting occasion. And yes, the recipe for the red pepper relish is in the book!"
Tracy Berno
Professor in Food Studies & author of three multiple international award-winning cookbooks
Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
"As an educator and coordinator in gastronomy, I am constantly reminded that the true essence of food extends far beyond technique, precision, and presentation. At its heart, cooking is a fundamental act of human connection. While professional kitchens often strive for perfection, the home kitchen holds a different kind of magic: it is a space of warmth, generosity, and personal expression.
In this inspiring collection, Michael Lück captures that magic brilliantly. Michael represents the very best of the artisan home cook—someone driven not by commercial pressure, but by a genuine passion for the craft and a deep love for sharing the fruits of his labor. His dedication over recent years to documenting his recipes into this book series is a testament to the joy of continuous learning and creative exploration.
What makes this book so compelling is its invitation to return to the roots of hospitality. In a world dominated by instant convenience, giving a homemade culinary gift—whether a carefully crafted jar of preserve, a freshly baked loaf, or a thoughtful party spread—communicates care in a way no store-bought item ever could. Michael makes this art form approachable for everyone, encouraging cooks of all skill levels to step into the kitchen, experiment with seasonal ingredients, and embrace the pleasure of making something by hand.
This journey is brought to life through the lens of Neil Gussey, whose photography captures the rich textures, colors, and inviting atmosphere of Michael’s creations. Neil’s visual storytelling elevates every page, offering readers not just a clear view of the finished dish, but a glimpse into the celebration and warmth that each recipe represents.
Whether you are an experienced cook looking for new inspiration or someone just beginning to explore handcrafted food, this book will remind you why we cook in the first place: to nourish, to celebrate, and to bring people together."
Alex Scherer Leibold
Head of Operations and Marketing / Academic Quality
La Universidad Anáhuac & Le Cordon Bleu México
México City
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