© Shutterstock

Candy canes -

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.

© Shutterstock

Yule log cake (bûche de Noël) -

Inspired by the ancient Yule log tradition, this rolled sponge cake originated in 19th-century France and remains a festive dessert staple.

© Shutterstock

Eggnog -

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.

© Shutterstock

Fruitcake -

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.

© Shutterstock

Mince pie -

Originally made with minced meat and spices, mince pie has evolved into sweet pastries filled with dried fruits.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.

© Shutterstock

Gingerbread -

Gingerbread originated in 15th century Europe, with figure-shaped biscuits emerging in the 16th century. Queen Elizabeth I famously gifted guest-shaped gingerbread figures.

© Shutterstock

Panettone -

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.

© Shutterstock

Christmas pudding -

Christmas pudding, a steamed dessert with dried fruits and spices, hails from England and has been a tradition since the 14th century.

© Shutterstock

Stollen -

Stollen, a traditional German Christmas bread, dates back to 1427, originally made with flour, water, and oil.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.

© Shutterstock

Hot chocolate -

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.

© Shutterstock

Pavlova -

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.

© Shutterstock

Marzipan figures -

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.

© Shutterstock

Mulled wine -

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.

© Shutterstock

Chocolate coins -

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.

© Shutterstock

Candied almonds -

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.

© Shutterstock

Trifle -

A layered English dessert of sponge cake, custard, and fruit, trifles have been enjoyed at Christmas since the 18th century.

© Shutterstock

Russian tea cake -

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.

© Shutterstock

Clementines -

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.

© Shutterstock

Buñuelos -

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.

© Shutterstock

Roasted chestnuts -

Roasted chestnuts, popularized in 16th-century Europe, are often sold by vendors in booths at Christmas markets, particularly in Vienna.

© Shutterstock

Peppermint bark -

This treat, combining crushed peppermint and chocolate, gained popularity in the US during the 20th century, becoming a holiday favorite.

© Shutterstock

Turrón -

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.

© Shutterstock

Linzer cookies -

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.

© Shutterstock

Fudge -

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.

© Shutterstock

Rice pudding -

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.

© Shutterstock

Rabanadas -

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

© Shutterstock

Rum balls -

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.

© Shutterstock

Candy apples -

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.

© Shutterstock

Saffron buns -

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) 

See also: Delicious holiday cookies from around the world

© Shutterstock