It’s the holiday season, and in Europe, that means festive markets, glowing lights, and—most importantly—the foods that make this time of year so magical. Think panettone with delicate candied fruits, steaming mugs of hot Aperol, and spiced cookies that smell like Christmas. It’s a season of indulgence, but if you can’t make it to Europe this year, don’t worry. You can still bring some of that magic into your home with carefully chosen treats and a few simple recipes.
One of my favorite holiday traditions is the world of panettone. At first glance, it’s easy to think they’re all the same—just a tall, dome-shaped bread with fruit, right? But once you start trying different kinds, you realize the flavorings, quality of ingredients, and price points vary widely. Some are simple and traditional, while others are more creative, featuring flavors like candied chestnut, white chocolate with pecan, or limoncello.
This year, we went with a candied pear and chocolate panettone, which has a beautiful balance of sweetness and richness. My tip? Always check the label to see if it’s made in Italy, as true Italian panettone has a distinct lightness and flavor that’s extremely difficult to replicate. And if you have leftovers, use them to make bread pudding—just swap in the panettone for a festive, elevated dessert.
Another treat I turn to this time of year is speculoos cookies from Belgium. I first tried them a few years ago while shopping for holiday treats, and I’ve been hooked ever since. These spiced cookies, flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, are crisp and subtly sweet, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
If you’re buying them, look for ones with the EU Organic certification label, which guarantees they’re made without GMOs or harmful pesticides. The quality of European food standards is something I really appreciate, and the organic label gives me extra peace of mind. Bonus: crushed speculoos cookies make an excellent topping for ice cream or even a cheesecake base.
For a taste of Germany, we highly recommend Dresden Stollen PGI. Years ago, we toured the Christmas markets in Germany, and Dresden was a highlight with its grand buildings, festive atmosphere, and, of course, signature stollen. This rich, fruit-filled bread is coated in powdered sugar and feels like a celebration in every bite.
What makes Dresden Stollen special is its Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) certification, which means part of the production must take place in Dresden, following traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. You can find authentic Dresden Stollen online in the U.S., making it an easy way to bring a bit of German Christmas into your home.
If you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for something special for Christmas morning, or just craving a taste of Europe, these treats are a delicious way to celebrate. Keep an eye out for the EU certification labels to ensure quality and authenticity, as well as support Europe’s artisanal producers. This year, let your holiday table be filled with flavors that connect you to centuries of tradition.
Note: This article was sponsored by the European Union.