There is this magical 24-day countdown to Christmas in Finland when children get to open a little door or drawer on their advent calendar every day. Behind each door, there’s a small chocolate or candy treat. But what if we, grown-ups, could also enjoy a more sophisticated countdown to Christmas with delicious Finnish food? Wera joulukalenteri can make it come true. But of course, there is nothing wrong with livening up your inner child with a traditional advent calendar. Still, it’s time to elevate your Christmas countdown game. We’ve got some delicious Finnish food ideas for you to try out this Christmas season. So sit back and let’s get started.
Piparkakut
Piparkakut, or Finnish gingerbread cookies, are a beloved holiday staple. Their warm spices and rich aroma evoke the spirit of Christmas in every bite. These cookies feature a delightful blend of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The dough is rolled thin and cut into festive shapes—stars, hearts, and even gingerbread men. Decorating them with icing adds an extra touch of creativity. In Finland, piparkakut is often enjoyed with a steaming cup of glögi—a spiced mulled wine that perfectly complements their sweetness. Families gather to bake these treats together, making it a cherished holiday activity filled with laughter and joy.
Joulutorttu
Joulutorttu is a delightful Finnish pastry that brings warmth to the holiday season. These star-shaped treats are made from flaky puff pastry, which perfectly cradles a sweet filling of prune or berry jam. The process of making Joulutorttu is as enjoyable as eating them. The dough is rolled out and cut into squares, where each piece gets a dollop of fruit filling right in the center. Folding the corners toward the middle creates an inviting shape reminiscent of festive stars twinkling on winter nights. Baking these pastries fills your kitchen with heavenly aromas. The combination of buttery layers and fruity sweetness makes every bite irresistible. Enjoying Joulutorttu with a cup of hot glögi or coffee adds charm during Christmas gatherings. It’s not just food; it’s part of cherished traditions that bring families together around warm tables filled with laughter and joy.
Salmiakki
Looking for something unique? Try Salmiakki. This candy brings together the boldness of ammonium chloride with a hint of sweetness, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. For many Finns, salmiakki isn’t just a snack; it’s nostalgia wrapped in black licorice. It often evokes memories of childhood and family gatherings during festive seasons. You might find it in various forms—hard candies, soft chews, or even ice cream. Curious about its texture? Salmiakki can be chewy or crunchy, depending on how it’s prepared. The salty kick adds depth to desserts, too, making them even more intriguing.
Kanelipulla
But what if you want something soft, pillowy, warm, and sweet? Well, Kanelipulla is definitely for you. This soft, pillowy pastry is often braided or twisted, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. The secret lies in the rich dough, which includes cardamom for an aromatic touch. Once rolled out, it’s generously smeared with butter and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. The combination creates a heavenly aroma while baking. Traditionally enjoyed during special occasions, Kanelipulla pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. It’s a must-try during the holiday season when families gather to share stories over freshly baked treats. Each bite offers comfort and nostalgia, reminding many of Christmases spent around the table.
As the holiday season approaches, Finnish treats bring warmth and joy to any Christmas celebration. Each bite of these delicacies brings you back to the core memory where you enjoy Christmas in Finland the most. Hopefully, it’ll also create new memories filled with flavor and festivity—making every day leading up to Christmas special in its own right.