Christmas is all about red and green outfits, lots of feasting, decorating everything with lights, and having a good time with friends and family. Among the many holiday traditions, Christmas cakes hold a special place on dessert tables worldwide. While most people are familiar with the plum or rum cake, there is a range of delicious and special Christmas cakes in different parts of the world. This Christmas, embrace the global spirit of celebration with cakes from around the world.
Here Are 5 Traditional Christmas Cakes Worldwide:
1. Christmas Cake – England
The England-style Christmas cake has become a beloved holiday dessert worldwide. This dense fruit cake is packed with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices – all soaked in spirits like brandy, rum, or cognac. The flavours of the cake are a unique mix of sweet, spicy, and boozy.
2. Buche de Noel – France
In France, Buche de Noel is a popular Christmas cake. This iconic dessert is a light sponge cake rolled into a log shape. The outer layer is coated in chocolate or coffee – flavoured buttercream and textured to resemble tree bark. To add a Christmas-special touch, it is decorated with powdered sugar, edible leaves, and meringue mushrooms.
Photo: iStock
3. Bolo Rei – Portugal
Portugal’s traditional Christmas cake looks fascinating and tastes amazing. Bolo Rei means ‘King’s Cake,’ and that’s what it looks like. The cake is shaped like a crown with a hole in the centre. Just like bright gems, it is adorned with candied fruits and nuts. As per tradition, a fava bean is hidden in the cake, and whoever gets that slice has to buy the cake next Christmas.
Photo: iStock
4. Panettone – Italy
Italy’s classic recipe is another favourite Christmas cake across Europe and beyond. This sweet cake is dome-shaped and has a bread-like texture-light, airy, and yeasty – similar to sourdough bread. Panettone also contains raisins and candied fruits. The true origin of Panettone lies in the medieval custom of enriching the daily bread during the Christmas period.
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5. Bibingka – Philippines
Christmas is a cherished holiday in the Philippines, celebrated with a holiday-special cake called bibingka. This traditional rice cake is made with coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaf moulds, giving it a unique aroma and interesting presentation. It is often topped with caramelized coconut strips.
Which is your favourite cake for Christmas celebrations? Share with us in the comments section.
