Around the world in 10 Christmas sweets not to be missed
As the Christmas holidays approach, culinary traditions take center stage in every country's celebrations. From Italy to Brazil, every corner of the world has typical desserts that delight young and old alike. Here we present a tour of ten of the most emblematic Christmas sweets in the world that not only sweeten these dates, but also reflect the culture and festive spirit of their places of origin.
1. Panettone - Italy
Panettone is a classic that is always present on Italian tables during Christmas. This spongy brioche usually filled with candied fruit and raisins is perfect to accompany a good coffee or a sweet mulled wine. Although its origin is in Milan, today it has become a universal symbol of Christmas. You should not miss our version filled with chocolate chips and topped with a delicious chocolate glaze.
2. Roscón de Reyes - Spain
In Spain there are many traditional sweets that are consumed during these special days: turrones, mantecados, roscos de vino... but if there is one that cannot be missed is the roscón de reyes. A crown-shaped sponge cake, decorated with candied fruit and sugar that is eaten on January 6. Its charm lies in the surprise of finding a figure and a bean inside. Ideal to share with the family along with a cup of hot chocolate.
3. Christmas log - France
The classic version of the Christmas log or Bûche de Noël is a rolled sponge cake filled with whipped cream and decorated to look like a log. Nowadays, we find a multitude of variations to suit the tastes of different diners. Among our favorites are: the lemon meringue tart log, the tiramisu and raspberry log or the mango and raspberry log. Any of them will be perfect to end the festive meal on a note of pure indulgence. You can find all our yule logs HERE.
4. Gingerbread cookies - UK
These cookies, decorated with colorful icing, are an unmistakable symbol of British festivities. Their spicy aroma and crunchy texture make them irresistible, as well as a favorite at family activities. Gingerbread cookies find their prettiest version in gingerbread houses (like the one shown in the cover photo). You can find the step-by-step explanation to make it Here.
5. French toasts - Rabanada - Portugal
Rabanada, also known as fatia dourada (golden slice) or, fatia parida (broken slice) is a sweet made with slices of bread that could remind us of the typical French toasts. It consists of slices of bread that are soaked in milk, wine or syrup and then dipped in egg to be baked or fried. They are then served sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. In other countries, such as Spain and Mexico, this humble but very tasty snack is part of the typical Lenten and Easter cuisine, but it is an essential sweet on the Christmas tables of Brazil and Portugal.
Scroll to learn more about French toasts during Christmas in Portugal!↓↓
6. Brigadeiro - Brazil
Although better known as a typical birthday sweet, brigadeiro is also enjoyed at Christmas on Brazilian tables. It is a chocolate and condensed milk balls, coated with chocolate noodles that are a highly addictive treat. This basic recipe finds more sophisticated variations to be at the height of the Christmas holidays. A nice and original option is to serve it in individual cups.
7. Pavlova - Australia
Light and refreshing, Pavlova is a classic Australian Christmas treat. Its crunchy meringue base is combined with fresh fruits such as mango, kiwis and passion fruit. Perfect for the warm summer Christmas in the Antipodes. This dessert is a balance between sweetness and freshness that conquers all.
8. Pecan Pie - United States
Pecan Pie is more than a dessert in America: it's a celebration in every bite. Its sweet and creamy filling, made with pecans, combines perfectly with the crunchy crust, this pie is a symbol of homey warmth. Its sweet and comforting taste makes it one of the must-have treats on Christmas and Thanksgiving tables, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
9. Black Forest - Germany
Black Forest cake is a symbol of Christmas in Germany. It combines layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream and cherries, with a touch of kirsch. Its balanced flavor and elegant presentation make it a festive favorite.
10. Spritz Cookies - Austria
Spritz cookies are an Austrian Christmas classic. Made from butter dough, they are molded into festive shapes and decorated with chocolate or powdered sugar. They are simple, delicious and perfect for sharing with the family.