10 Christmas Recipes from around the World: SparkRecipes SlideShow

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10 Christmas Recipes from around the World

by Stepfanie Romine, Staff Writer

For most families, Christmas revolves around food as a way to unite loved ones, evoke memories, and even show others that you care. This country is a melting pot, and during holidays our diverse traditions and customs take center stage. Whether you want to reconnect with your family's roots or simply find a new recipe for your Christmas celebration, we've gathered traditional dishes from around the world that we hope will find a special place on your holiday table.

Stollen (Germany)

This fruit bread is traditionally flavored with rum and candied fruit and gets a whole-grain boost for added taste and fiber.

Buche de Noel (France)

Buche de Noel translates to "Christmas log," but don't let that deter you. This is actually a spongy chocolate cake with a creamy filling and chocolate frosting. You can flavor the cream as you desire (try: orange, peanut butter, or peppermint).

Panettone (Italy)

At Christmastime, bread studded with dried fruit is common across Europe. This Italian version is soft and fluffy, with crunchy walnuts and lemon peel, and it's easily made in a bread machine.

Toffee Pudding (Great Britain)

While you might know the American version of pudding, a cooked custard flavored in any way imaginable, you might not be familiar with the British version. Quite delicious and rich, this toffee pudding is closer to a soufflé than a custard, with a thick sauce.

Mince Pie (Great Britain)

Don't let the name or description of mince pie deter you: Bits of chopped meat (or beef suet) mixed with dried fruit, plenty of spices and a fortified liquor like brandy are baked into a crust. The result is a rich pie that's full of flavor--you don't even taste the meat. We love these mini double-crusted mince pies.

Coquito (Puerto Rico)

You've likely had eggnog, but have you ever had it with coconut and rum? This Puerto Rican version adds both for a delightful and unexpected twist. Serve this traditional Christmas beverage well-chilled.

Speculaas Cookies (Netherlands)

Cookie butter has gained popularity in recent years, and it is made from traditional spiced Speculaas (Speculoos) cookies, a holiday favorite in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and northern France. These crunchy cookies don't rise much, but they are packed with sweet, spicy flavor.

Tourtiere (Canada)

This Québécois meat pie is a savory dish that could serve as the center of your Christmas dinner. Though the dish might be new, the flavors are familiar: beef and pork; mushrooms, celery, and onions; and spices like cinnamon, cloves, and pepper.

Lebkuchen (Germany)

These German fruit and spice cookies have all the flavors of stollen, in cookie form. They have a rich flavor and dark appearance, thanks to the combo of honey and brown sugar.

Wassail (Great Britain)

Wouldn’t a mug of hot mulled cider or wine be comforting after a cold evening spent looking at holiday lights or singing carols? No matter which version you choose, you'll feel warm and cozy inside.