Get in the holiday spirit by embarking on a sweet adventure around the world! While presents and trees are certainly festive, it’s also about sharing delicious treats with loved ones. We’re excited to take you on a culinary journey, featuring mouthwatering Christmas sweets from far-flung lands. From Germany’s crispy gingerbread cookies to Italy’s fluffy Panettone, each recipe offers a unique flavor profile that will leave your taste buds singing.
Put on your favorite holiday tunes, don your apron, and let’s dive into this global confectionary extravaganza! And for even more sweet treats to enjoy on Christmas eve and day, be sure to check out our best no-bake desserts and vintage dessert recipes. Buckle up for a sugar-filled ride that takes you from the North Pole to the South, one scrumptious cookie at a time.
SPITZBUBEN COOKIES (GERMAN CHRISTMAS COOKIES)
Indulge in the quintessential Christmas treats from Germany – Spitzbuben cookies! These scrumptious morsels boast a buttery exterior giving way to a tangy jam center that’s simply irresistible. For an added layer of richness, complexity and tenderness, incorporate ground nuts into the dough. A delightful combination that will leave you craving more. If you’re looking for more German cookie inspiration, check out our curated list of Best German Cookie Recipes.
CZECH VANILLA CRESCENT COOKIES
Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Czech Christmas cookies, Vanilkove Rohlicky, as you savor the buttery aroma and nutty essence. The crescent-shaped treats are a masterclass in texture, with a satisfying crunch giving way to a soft, slightly chewy center. And don’t miss the crucial step of rolling them in vanilla sugar while still warm – it’s this subtle nuance that elevates the cookie from merely delicious to utterly irresistible.
KOURABIETHES (GREEK CHRISTMAS SHORTBREAD COOKIES)
Indulge in the warm, festive spirit of Greek Christmas Shortbread Cookies, where East meets West. These buttery treats blend traditional Scottish shortbread with Greek flair, incorporating toasted almonds and a hint of brandy to create a delightfully complex flavor profile. The finishing touch is a light dusting of icing sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the crumbly, textured cookies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
MILLE FEUILLE CREAM PASTRY
Indulge in the opulence of French patisserie with the iconic mille-feuille, a masterpiece of simplicity and decadence. Delicate layers of flaky puff pastry harmonize with rich vanilla cream to create an experience that’s as much about texture as it is about taste. This beloved dessert embodies the French passion for crafting desserts that are both humble and sublime.
TURRÓN DE JIJONA
Indulge in a festive Spanish escapade this Christmas by exploring the rich traditions of Turrón de Jijona. This beloved holiday confection from Alicante is characterized by its diverse range of almond nougat forms. As you savor each piece, you’ll be delighted by the intriguing contrast between soft, peanut-butter-like textures and firmer, snappy bites that will leave you eager for more.
SANS RIVAL
This holiday season, treat yourself to a taste adventure with Sans Rival, the Philippines’ iconic cashew meringue cake. Envision tender layers of golden-brown cashew meringue smothered in a luxurious French buttercream spread, a match made in sweet heaven that’s impossible to resist.
MEXICAN BUÑUELOS
Indulge in the sweet and crispy charm of Mama Maggie’s Kitchen’s Mexican Buñuelos, authentic fritters that transport you to a culinary haven. These bite-sized treats, drizzled with cinnamon and sugar, are a festive must-have that will leave your taste buds singing and craving more.
ICELANDIC CHRISTMAS COOKIES
Indulge in the sweet charm of traditional Icelandic Christmas cookies, Marens Kornflexkokur, which offer a delightful treat made with cornflakes and salted chocolate. This effortless recipe requires only 5 simple ingredients and 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal festive delight to share with loved ones.
DANISH HAVREGRYNSKUGLER
Kick off the holiday season with a delightful twist on a timeless Danish tradition: Havregrynskugler, or oat balls. These versatile treats can be customized to suit every palate, from classic to creative and even adult-oriented variations. Whether you’re seeking a flexible yet authentic Danish Christmas delicacy, look no further than these addictive little bundles of joy.
VEGAN CHRISTMAS CAKE (IRISH-STYLE)
This holiday season, reimagine the classic Fiery Vegetarian recipe by renowned chef Darina Allen with a plant-based spin. The result is a rich, indulgent cake that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. By making this vegan variation, you’ll create a show-stopping centerpiece for your Christmas gathering that’s sure to impress guests and satisfy their sweet tooth.
AUTHENTIC LINZER COOKIES
Indulge in the quintessential taste of Austria this holiday season by baking authentic Linzer Cookies. The cookie dough is elevated by the addition of ground hazelnuts and almonds, while a blend of Christmas spices – including cinnamon and coriander – adds depth and warmth to each bite. This effortless recipe is sure to become a festive favorite.
DARK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES
Indulge in the rich flavors of France with Boots & Hooves Homestead’s delightful treat: Dark Chocolate Truffles. These bite-sized morsels are a perfect blend of decadence and nutrition, boasting an impressive dose of antioxidants that will satisfy your sweet tooth while also nourishing your body.
PFEFFERNÜSSE SPICE COOKIES
Indulge in the warm, nostalgic flavors of Pfeffernüsse Spice Cookies, a beloved holiday tradition that transcends borders. These sweet treats have been delighting families across the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark for generations, making them the perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations.
BREUDHER CAKE WITH BLOOD ORANGE GLAZE
Indulge in the aromatic charm of Sri Lanka’s beloved Breudher Cake, a timeless treat that transcends seasons and celebrations. The yeasted masterpiece boasts a distinct fusion of flavors and textures, effortlessly winning over hearts and palates alike.
INSTANT POT ARROZ CON DULCE
Indulge in the velvety smoothness of Arroz con Dulce, a traditional Puerto Rican rice pudding that bursts with aromatic warmth from its blend of spices and ginger. What’s more, this delectable dessert is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an accessible indulgence for those navigating dietary limitations.
SOUTH AFRICAN MALVA PUDDING
In the realm of South African baking, there exists a treasured dessert that embodies the perfect blend of sweet and savory – Malva Pudding. This delectable treat is characterized by its tender crumb, infused with the lusciousness of apricot jam and the richness of heavy cream. A beloved holiday tradition, Malva Pudding adds an unmistakable touch to any festive gathering, including Christmas celebrations.
GERMAN HONEY BARS
Step into the winter wonderland of centuries past with Lebkuchen, a traditional German honey bar that’s been delighting taste buds since the 14th century. Not only are these soft and spicy treats perfect for gifting loved ones this holiday season, but they’re also an excellent choice to share at your next Christmas cookie exchange. With their rich history and warm, comforting flavors, it’s no wonder Lebkuchen has become a beloved staple of German Christmas celebrations.
ENGLISH CHRISTMAS TRIFLE
The quintessential English Christmas treat, Trifle is a masterpiece of layered goodness. It typically consists of moist pound cake, rich custard, luscious fresh fruit, and fluffy whipped cream. This sweet creation embodies the essence of a traditional English Yuletide celebration, transporting anyone who partakes to a winter wonderland of festive cheer.
BOLO REI
Indulge in the festive spirit of Portugal’s Bolo Rei, a heavenly Christmas cake that combines fluffy texture with warm spices. This delightful treat is packed with an assortment of fruits and nuts, making it a breeze to bake at home. Experience the thrill of crafting your own King’s Cake crown this holiday season, just like the Portuguese do!
APPLE AND FIG POLENTA TORTA
Savor the rich flavors of Apple and Fig Polenta Torta, a traditional Italian dessert originating from San Marino. Typically baked in a fireplace and enjoyed during winter celebrations or casual Sunday gatherings, this ancient cake holds a special place in Romagna culture. Passed down through generations of housewives, the secret recipe remains a treasured tradition.
COZONAC (ROMANIAN SWEET BREAD)
The quintessential Romanian delight, Cozonac, is a tender, sweet bread that gets an extra boost from its decadent walnut filling. As a beloved tradition during the holiday season, it’s no wonder this pastry has captured hearts and taste buds alike with just one indulgent bite.
STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING
Indulge in the quintessential British treat, Sticky Toffee Pudding, a delectable fusion of sweet and sticky. This iconic dessert boasts a richly flavored date cake smothered in a warm butterscotch-toffee sauce that will leave you craving more. A staple in Scotland, England, and Ireland, it’s an experience not to be missed.
BRIGADEIRO
Indulge in the rich flavors of Brazil by whipping up a batch of Brigadeiros, decadent treats that require only four ingredients. With their deep, intense chocolate taste, it’s no wonder these bite-sized sweets are hard to put down. A perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth and a passion for all things chocolate.
VEGAN COCONUT BARFI
Indian sweets are renowned for their rich flavors and vibrant colors, with Coconut Barfi being a particularly beloved treat. In its vegan iteration, the dish takes on a striking blue hue courtesy of the inclusion of blue spirulina. This added twist not only elevates the visual appeal but also ensures that the sweet remains free from refined sugar, making it an accessible indulgence for those looking to satisfy their cravings while adhering to dietary restrictions. And the best part?
With just 15 minutes of preparation time required, this treat is a quick and easy delight.
RISALAMANDE
Indulge in the rich flavors of Denmark’s beloved Risalamande, a traditional dessert that combines the creamiest of rice puddings with the subtle nuances of sherry and almonds. As you savor each spoonful, the warmth of the sweet cherry sauce provides a delightful contrast, making this comforting treat as satisfying as it is indulgent.
PECAN DATE BARS
Indulge in the rich flavors of these innovative Pecan Date Bars, which reimagine the classic Pecan Pie formula with a dash of Parisian flair, Middle Eastern spice, and All-American charm. This healthier dessert alternative is sure to satisfy cravings and offer a welcome change from traditional sweet treats.
NATILLA COLOMBIANA
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary heritage of Colombia with a taste of their iconic Christmas dessert, Natilla. Characterized by its rich diversity, each family’s recipe adds a personal touch, offering an array of flavors to discover and savor.
CREMA DE FRUTA
Indulge in a taste of the Philippines with Crema de Fruta, a delightful dessert that defies expectations with its unique combination of tender sponge cake, velvety custard, and a medley of fruits suspended in gelatine. This sweet treat is sure to be the crowning glory at any festive gathering, offering a delightful respite from the usual desserts.
NORWEGIAN KRUMKAKE CHRISTMAS COOKIES
In many Scandinavian households, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the delightful Krumkake – a sweet treat that’s equal parts cookie and waffle. With its crispy edges and delicate texture, this traditional Norwegian dessert is sure to become a new family favorite, adding a warm touch of cultural heritage to your Christmas celebrations.
JAPANESE STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE
A beloved treat in Japan, Japanese Strawberry Shortcake – also known as Japanese Christmas Cake – is a light and airy dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. The combination of vibrant red strawberries, fluffy white whipped cream, and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar makes this sweet treat almost too beautiful to eat.
BUTTER TARTS
Canadian treats don’t get much more iconic than the butter tart, a sweet indulgence that’s sure to be a showstopper on any holiday dessert table. With its rich, buttery filling and flaky crust, this classic dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare – and once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! It’s little wonder that butter tarts have become a staple of Canadian cuisine, and one that’s sure to bring joy to anyone lucky enough to get their hands on one.
GUYANESE SPONGE CAKE
As we revel in the festive spirit, let’s embark on a culinary adventure across cultures! The Guyanese Sponge Cake, with its rich flavor profile akin to pound cake, is a decadent treat that’s often swirled with vibrant colors and savored during special occasions like birthdays and Christmas. Our journey has taken us through diverse traditions, bringing the magic of global celebrations right into our own homes.
There’s nothing quite like sharing these international sweets with loved ones to spread holiday cheer. By infusing our festive season with unique flavors from around the world, we’ve made this Christmas extra special. The true essence of the holiday season lies not in the destination, but in the joyful journey of baking and sharing these treasured treats. As you keep these recipes close, remember that they’re sure to become cherished traditions in your home, too.
Happy baking and happy holidays!
