Around The World In Winter Solstice Sweets

By Ujjainee Roy

Intro

Try these exotic desserts which are prepared around the world to celebrate winter solstice. Nom nom!

Sesame Balls (Korea)

Sesame balls or Gyeongdan are small rice cake balls coated in sweetened sesame powder, usually prepared during the winter solstice

Mince Pies (United Kingdom)

The classic mince pies are filled with a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and sometimes brandy and their origin can be traced back to old-timey solstice celebrations

Tangyuan (China)

The sweet rice dumplings are served during the Dongzhi Festival, which aligns with the winter solstice. They are often filled with sweet sesame paste, red bean paste, or peanuts.

Yule Log (France)

The popular Yule log cake, or Bûche de Noël is a traditional French dessert which symbolizes the ancient tradition of burning a Yule log during the winter solstice.

Saffron Buns (Sweden)

Saffron Buns or Lussekatter are sweet, saffron-infused buns shaped into spirals or S-shapes and are traditionally enjoyed on St. Lucia's Day.

Pfeffernüsse (Germany)

Pfeffernüsse are iced gingerbread cookies which are small and round and are flavored with a mix of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom

Kutia (Ukraine)

Kutia is a sweet grain pudding traditionally prepared in Ukraine during Christmas. It is usually made with cooked wheat, honey, poppy seeds, and nuts.

Polvorones (Spain):

Polvorones are crumbly shortbread-like cookies associated with Christmas and they tend to contain ground almonds and a nut mix and are topped with powdered sugar.