Europe is magical any time of year, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a dreamscape of twinkling lights, festive markets, and iconic desserts that have been cherished for generations. For future AESU travelers, exploring these treats is more than a delicious pastime; it’s a way to connect with the cultures you’ll soon experience firsthand. And while we’re eagerly waiting for the 2026 travel season, you can still enjoy a taste of Europe right here at home. Below is your passport to a few classic holiday sweets across Europe, and where to find their American counterparts while you countdown to departure. Read on to learn more!
Panettone (Italy)
Light, airy, and beautifully domed, panettone is the quintessential Italian Christmas bread. Studded with raisins or candied citrus, it’s equal parts dessert and breakfast, perfect alongside cappuccino or espresso. Walking through an Italian market around the holidays, you’ll see colorful boxes stacked to the ceiling, signaling celebrations ahead.
Many gourmet grocery stores carry imported versions during November and December. Brands like Bauli and Loison show up at Costco, World Market, Whole Foods, and even some local bakeries. Warm it lightly in the oven and pair it with coffee to mimic the Italian holiday vibe.
Lebkuchen (Germany)
Germany’s beloved gingerbread-style cookie is softer, spicier, and more aromatic than its American cousins. Whether coated in dark chocolate or glazed with a sugar icing, lebkuchen fills German Christmas markets with the unmistakable scent of cloves, nutmeg, and honey. Enjoyed with mulled wine, it’s a staple of the country’s Advent season.
Look for imported Nürnberger Lebkuchen at Aldi, Trader Joe’s, or online. Some German-style bakeries stateside prepare their own versions, often just as good as what you’d find in Munich or Nuremberg’s famous Christkindlesmarkt.
Bûche de Noël (France)
A French masterpiece, the Bûche de Noël is as whimsical as it is decadent. Shaped like a yule log and often decorated with meringue mushrooms or powdered “snow,” this rolled sponge cake is filled with rich buttercream or mousse. Each bakery brings its own artistic flair, turning dessert into a centerpiece.
French bakeries and patisseries frequently offer holiday bûches during December. Ladurée, Maison Kayser, or local patisseries often take pre-orders. If you’re in a major city, you may even find modern twists like pistachio, hazelnut-praline, or raspberry versions.
Kourabiedes (Greece)
These almond shortbread cookies are a snowy, melt-in-your-mouth experience thanks to the thick dusting of powdered sugar. Served during Christmas and New Year celebrations, kourabiedes are deeply tied to Greek hospitality and family traditions.
Greek bakeries, church bazaars, and Mediterranean grocery stores often offer authentic kourabiedes during the holidays. If you prefer homemade treats, these cookies are surprisingly simple to bake and make your kitchen smell like a Greek celebration.
Mince Pies (United Kingdom)
Small, buttery, and spiced with dried fruits, citrus peel, and warming seasonings, mince pies are the heart of the British holiday season. Enjoyed with tea or mulled wine, they’re part of centuries-old traditions and show up at every party, office gathering, and family table.
Stores like World Market, Wegmans, and British specialty shops carry imported mince pies each winter. Online British grocers also ship them to the States, making it easy to bring a little UK cheer to your holiday spread.
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal, designed just for people your age. We can also create custom trips tailored just for your group.
Experience an exhilarating adventure! New 2026 departure dates are now available at www.aesu.com/trips. Check out our most popular trips: the Cosmopolitan and the Great Escape trips! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640 or filling out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.