This additive has been banned from cosmetics, but not from food
Christmas treats are an essential part of holiday celebrations, rich with history and tradition. From classic gingerbread cookies to fruitcakes and candy canes, these festive delights carry stories that span centuries and cultures. Many popular confections trace their roots to medieval feasts, while others became iconic in modern holiday festivities.
Click on to explore the fascinating origins and enduring charm of delicious Christmas staples that sweeten the season.
Candy canes, traditionally white with red stripes and peppermint-flavored, date back to a 1837 exhibition in Massachusetts. The "candy cane" was first mentioned in 1866, with Christmas references in 1874.
Inspired by the ancient Yule log tradition, this rolled sponge cake originated in 19th-century France and remains a festive dessert staple.
Eggnog, originating from the British medieval drink posset, became a popular holiday beverage in the US by the 18th century. It's made with eggs, milk, sugar, and often spiced rum or brandy.
Fruitcake, made with dried fruit, nuts, and spices, dates back to ancient Rome. It evolved in medieval Europe, becoming popular for Christmas and weddings by the 16th century.
Originally made with minced meat and spices, mince pie has evolved into sweet pastries filled with dried fruits. First appearing in 16th-century England, they remain a Christmas tradition in the English-speaking world.
Gingerbread originated in 15th century Europe, with figure-shaped biscuits emerging in the 16th century. Queen Elizabeth I famously gifted guest-shaped gingerbread figures.
Panettone is sweet Italian bread from Milan, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year's. It contains candied fruit, raisins, and a fluffy texture, with origins traced to the 16th century.
Christmas pudding, a steamed dessert with dried fruits and spices, hails from England and has been a tradition since the 14th century.
Stollen, a traditional German Christmas bread, dates back to 1427, originally made with flour, water, and oil. By the 15th century, Pope Innocent VIII allowed butter to be used, transforming the recipe.
Hot cocoa, first enjoyed by ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs, gained holiday significance in 17th-century Europe, becoming a cherished winter tradition associated with cozy celebrations.
Pavlova, named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, is a meringue-based dessert popular in Australia and New Zealand. Often served at Christmas, it features a crisp crust, soft interior, and is topped with fruit.
Marzipan, an almond-based treat molded into festive shapes since the Renaissance, became a popular Christmas confection, especially in Germany, symbolizing holiday joy and celebration.
Mulled wine, a traditional winter drink made by heating red wine with spices, dates back to Roman times and became popular across Europe, especially during the Christmas season.
Foil-wrapped chocolate coins, inspired by Saint Nicholas' generosity, became a Christmas tradition after chocolate's European introduction in the 16th century, symbolizing his acts of kindness.
Candied almonds are almonds coated in crunchy, caramelized sugar. Originating in 17th-century France, they're a popular festive treat, especially in Christmas markets across Europe.
A layered English dessert of sponge cake, custard, and fruit, trifles have been enjoyed at Christmas since the 18th century.
Also known as snowball cookies, these festive Christmas treats have uncertain origins, possibly linked to Eastern European shortbread cookies, and became popular in the US by the 20th century.
These sweet, seedless citrus fruits are a Christmas classic, especially in Europe and North America. Dating back to the Victorian era, their bright color adds a festive touch, symbolizing warmth and joy during the season.
Buñuelos, crispy fried dough fritters traditionally enjoyed at Christmas, are popular across Spain and Latin America. Often sweetened with sugar, cinnamon, or piloncillo syrup, they symbolize good luck in many cultures.
Roasted chestnuts, popularized in 16th-century Europe, are often sold by vendors in booths at Christmas markets, particularly in Vienna.
This treat, combining crushed peppermint and chocolate, gained popularity in the US during the 20th century, becoming a holiday favorite.
Turrón is a Spanish nougat treat with Moorish origins, typically made from almonds and honey. It's a cherished holiday staple, particularly during Christmas celebrations in Spain and Latin America.
Originating from Austria, Linzer cookies are jam-filled treats often enjoyed during the holidays, particularly at Christmas, and are known for their distinctive lattice design.
Fudge was invented in the late 19th century in the US. Since then, it has become a popular holiday treat, often in rich chocolate or nut variations.
Rice pudding has its roots in ancient Europe. It was once considered a lucky dish, with a hidden 'prize' symbolizing prosperity for the coming year.
Portuguese-style French toast, rabanadas are soaked in sweetened milk, fried, and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. It's a holiday favorite in Portugal and Brazil.
d
Rum balls, invented by the Danes, are truffle-like confections made with cookie butter, chocolate, and rum. Popular during Christmas, they're enjoyed across Europe, the US, and other countries.
Candy apples originated in the US in 1908. Coated in hard sugar syrup, they became a festive treat for Christmas and Halloween, popular in fairs and holiday markets.
Saffron buns, originating from Sweden, are traditionally baked for Saint Lucia Day on December 13. They symbolize light during winter's darkness and date back to the Middle Ages.
Sources: (The Spruce Eats) (Delicious) (Food & Wine)
A brief history of popular Christmas treats
Here's how these treats became holiday staples
FOOD Holidays
Christmas treats are an essential part of holiday celebrations, rich with history and tradition. From classic gingerbread cookies to fruitcakes and candy canes, these festive delights carry stories that span centuries and cultures. Many popular confections trace their roots to medieval feasts, while others became iconic in modern holiday festivities.
Click on to explore the fascinating origins and enduring charm of delicious Christmas staples that sweeten the season.