Top Five Sweet Greek Delicacies to Try During Christmas

In Greece, Christmas is one of the most important holidays; it’s the season that brings families together. Sharing stories from the past, eating, drinking and, of course, enjoying local delicacies.

There are many traditional recipes for Christmas dishes in Greece and even more different versions for each one of them, depending on the region. What they all have in common though, is the love the masterminds behind them put into them while cooking. And by masterminds, I am referring to the amazing Greek people who pour their heart and soul into their recipes.

I narrowed down the list by including only desserts – I am a sweet tooth; it’s more than obvious, I guess. So get inspired and enjoy!

Melomakarona

One of my favorite desserts of all time and a reason to expect Christmas. These delicious cookies are a combination of cinnamon, orange and honey, dipped in syrup once baked and topped up with sprinkled nuts. Some people stuff them with nuts or add chocolate as well. However, the traditional recipe is by far the best.

Kourabiedes

Another dessert saying that Christmas is around the corner! Kourabiedes are shortbread cookies, usually made with nuts and dusted with icing sugar. A truly mouthwatering experience!

Both melomakarona and kourabiedes are never absent from any house in Greece during the festive season. Just a friendly reminder: remove them from easily accessible areas; you will not resist eating them all in one go!

Diples

Diples means “folded,” and it’s a dough folded, covered with honey, cinnamon, and walnuts.

Christopsomo

A very popular Greek tradition, “christopsomo” means “Christ’s bread”. It’s a loaf of bread, made with pure and fine ingredients and offered with nuts or honey.

Vasilopita

The New Year’s Day cake contains a coin, which brings good luck to the one who finds it in their slice. There are many vasilopita recipes, and it’s usually sweet to symbolize the happiness of the new life.

Enjoy!

Insights Greece - Top Five Sweet Greek Delicacies to Try During Christmas
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Cover image Akis Petretzikis