The 13 desserts for a Provençal Christmas

Calling all sweet tooths! Are you familiar with the Provençal tradition of the 13 Christmas desserts? A delightful array of sweet treats is offered to guests to conclude the Christmas Eve dinner on December 24th, but why? Become an expert and draw inspiration from it if you're so inclined for an unforgettable festive table!

Why 13 desserts at Christmas?
While its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, this tradition, which originated in Provence, dates back several centuries. With its biblical theme, this custom commemorates the Last Supper by presenting 13 desserts, representing the number of guests: Jesus and the 12 apostles.

What is the list of the 13 Christmas desserts?
This list is not exhaustive as it has evolved over time. It also varies from city to city, but here is a list including the classics:

• The oil pump (also called orange blossom fougasse)
• Nut
• Almonds
• Dried figs
• Raisins
• Dates
• White nougat
• Black nougat
• Calissons from Aix
• Quince paste
• Oranges or clementines
• Watermelon
• White grape

The choice of this abundance of sweets is also linked to history and is a tribute to Christ's Last Supper with his apostles. The olive oil cake, for example, must be presented broken, just as the bread was at the Last Supper. The four dried fruits (walnuts, almonds, raisins, and dried figs) represent the four religious orders (mendicants): the Augustinians, the Carmelites, the Dominicans, and the Franciscans. The dates, for their part, are related to the Eastern origins of Jesus and the Three Wise Men. With their sweet honey flavor, the nougats in two different colors symbolize good and evil. A whole symbolism for this table rich in flavors that will delight the taste buds of all the guests!

The tradition of our time
Eaten on the return from Christmas Eve mass, these desserts are usually arranged on 3 white tablecloths, surrounded by 3 candles and the 3 bowls of wheat of Saint Barbara (the number being the symbol of the Trinity).
A true moment of sharing, each guest is invited to taste each dish to end this festive meal in style. And to prolong this convivial moment, these desserts remain available on the serving table for 3 days.

There you have it, you're now an expert on this Provençal tradition! You now have all the information you need to offer the 13 desserts to your guests or simply enhance your Christmas table with a few dishes from this list for a truly Provençal celebration...