Lebkuchen (naumoid (123RF))
As you are strolling along at one of the many Christmas markets across Europe the sweet smells of desserts fill the air. As you gaze into the clear cases, mouthwatering, it can be hard to decide what to eat. A crunchy cookie? A soft fruity bread? A chocolate covered yule log?
Each country has its own iconic Christmas market treat. Our list can help guide you to the most traditional flavors Europe has to offer.
Germany – Christstollen or Weihnachtsstollen
Dusted with snowy powdered sugar, this sweet treat is reminiscent of raisin bread but also contains citrusy hints of lemon zest and candied orange peel.
Italy – Panettone
This dome-shaped sweetbread or fruitcake originated in Milan in the 15th century. It is filled with raisins. Toast it for a bit of a crispy crust and pair it with hot cocoa or gluhwein.
Pantonne (milla74 (123RF))
U.K. – Christmas Mince Pie
These filled pastries can be sweet or savory, depending on your personal tastes. No matter what you choose, it is customary to eat one pie per day for the 12 days of Christmas.
Portugal – Bolo Rei
Also known as “King Cake,” this ring-shaped cake features nuts, crystalized fruit and raisins. It is traditionally eaten on Christmas Day and King’s Day (Jan. 6).
Greece – Kourabiedes
These butter and almond cookies are the perfect crunchy treat. Each family tends to put their own spin on the recipe such as adding whiskey to the batter or switching the nuts for ouzo.
Kourabiedes with almonds on dark wooden background (lanam7 (123RF))
Hungary– Beigli
Marvel at the twirl of this poppy seed and walnut roll cake. The dough can also be flavored with lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
France/Switzerland – Bûche De Noël
Also known as a Yule log, this decadent sponge cake is rolled with whipped cocoa hazelnut cream and covered in a thick chocolate ganache.
Bûche De Noël. Traditional chocolate dessert on festive background (yuliaff (123RF))
The Netherlands – Banketstaff
These flaky treats come in log shapes, S-shapes and M-shapes. They are a simple confection that consist of only three ingredients: almond paste, egg and puff pastry.
Sweden – Lussekatter
These tiny S-shaped and cross-shaped yeast pastries get their yellow tint from saffron. They are traditionally baked on Dec. 13th, Lucia Day .
Czechia – Perníčky
These sweet snacks are very similar to gingerbread cookies, but they are chewier and get their flavor from fennel, anise, cinnamon and cloves.
