Global Christmas Food Traditions

Christmas is the perfect time to sample traditional treats from around the world. Learn about some of World Market's most popular global holiday foods!

Germany

From delicate marzipan candies to decadent cakes and chocolates, German desserts bring a sweet finish to holiday dinners. For a post-meal treat, serve yourself a slice of cake-like Stollen. It’s best enjoyed with dark coffee or a cup of hot tea.

Our advent calendars let you count down the days to Christmas Eve with luscious German chocolates, while our beautifully crafted marzipan morsels make eye-catching (and mouthwatering) gifts.

Sweden

In Sweden, spices were historically rare and reserved for the holidays. Classic Pfeffernusse "pepper nut" biscuits and spiced Speculoos shortcrust biscuits were traditionally baked for St. Nicholas' feast. Nyåkers are sweetly spiced ginger cookies based on a secret family recipe and age-old baking techniques. Complete any Swedish Christmastime meal with a splash of Glogg, a heated spiced mulled wine.

Italy

As the traditional sweet bread served during the holidays in Italy, panettone is perfect with breakfast coffee or as dessert. In fact, a popular Italian holiday hostess gift is panettone and a bottle of prosecco, to be served together after the feast. Along with the classic fruit-studded loaves, we offer a variety of flavors.

British Isles

Our brilliant desserts from across the pond will set your mouth watering. Try Christmas pudding, a tasty fruitcake or spiced mincemeat. We also carry a selection of authentic shortbread, including Walkers, Grandma Wild’s and Border, which crafts its assortment using traditional recipes. Presented in elegant tins, shortbread makes a wonderful holiday gift.

Netherlands

Soft, fragrant and rich, Daelmans Stroopwafels’ story began in 1904, in a little family bakery in the southern Netherlands. Now, millions worldwide have fallen in love with these delicious thin layers of dough filled with caramel syrup. Serve on top of a cup of hot coffee or tea and let the steam soften the cookie and melt the filling. A perfect treat for any time of day!

France

If you want a classic French taste over the holidays, look no further than our selection of madeleines. These small cakes are made by Maison Colibri, a historic workshop that’s been creating baked goods from authentic French ingredients for over 120 years. A tasty treat anytime, serve madeleines with coffee or tea (dipping encouraged).

Scotland

For over a century, the Walker family has been crafting exquisite shortbread in the village of Aberlour. Rooted in tradition, this delicious treat harks back to 16th century Scotland when it was reserved for special occasions like weddings and Christmas celebrations. Take part in a Scottish Christmas custom: leave some out for Santa alongside a single malt and a slice of mince pie.

Denmark

From a family-owned bakery in Denmark, these butter cookies have been wowing cookie enthusiasts for over 50 years. Made with natural ingredients and no preservatives, these cookies are delicately crunchy and richly buttery. And, the iconic tins make useful storage boxes!