Provence celebrates Christmas with a unique and delicious tradition: 13 Christmas dessertsThis ritual, rooted in Provençal culture, brightens the holiday season with powerful symbolism and a bountiful table. But what are these desserts and what do they represent? Discover this tradition, rich in meaning and flavor.
The History of the 13 Desserts: Between Faith and Indulgence
The tradition of 13 Christmas desserts dates back several centuries and is rooted in Christian symbolism. Indeed, these desserts represent Christ and his twelve apostles at the Last Supper. Their presentation, at the end of the Christmas Eve meal (the Gros Souper), is a solemn and festive moment. Custom dictates that these sweets remain on the table until December 27, so that everyone can help themselves at their leisure. This gesture reflects Provençal hospitality and generosity, values deeply rooted in the regional culture.
What are the 13 desserts?
The composition of the 13 desserts varies slightly from one family or village to another, but certain dishes are essential to respect this Provençal custom.
01
The Four Beggars: The Basics of Tradition
These dried fruits embody the mendicant religious orders:
- noix or hazelnuts for the Augustins.
- dried figs for the Franciscans.
- Almonds for the Carmelites.
- raisins for the Dominicans.
02
Black nougat and white nougat
These two sweets represent a perfect balance between bitter and sweet. black nougat, made with honey and toasted almonds, is slightly crunchy and bitter. In contrast, the white nougat, more tender, combines sugar, honey and egg whites for a melting texture.
We recommend the Laurmar Nougats, producer in Caumont-sur-Durance.
03
The oil pump: a typically Provençal delicacy
Also called gibassié, the oil pump is a brioche made with olive oil and delicately flavored with orange blossom. This brioche bread is a must-have that symbolizes abundance and unity.
According to tradition, it must be broken by hand, never cut with a knife, to avoid “damaging” the bread!
04
Fresh and exotic fruits
On oranges, clementines, dates and sometimes the grapes ou apples occupy an important place. They evoke openness to the world and celebrate the exchanges between Provence and distant regions.
05
Local and sweet treats
Families often add their personal touch with local specialties:
- On calissons d'Aix, a mixture of almonds, candied fruit and royal icing.
- On fruit pastes or candied fruit with seasonal flavors.
- On honey cookies or with spices, little homemade delights.
A table full of meaning and generosity
If the 13 desserts are a real feast For the taste buds, they also tell a story, that of a people attached to their roots and their values. The idea of this ritual is not to impress with luxurious desserts, but rather to celebrate simple and sincere abundance.
The moment the desserts are placed on the table is an event in itself. Children are often tasked with counting the dishes to ensure there are 13, which leads to laughter and family stories. Guests then sit down to pick from the platters, chat, and reminisce.
How to compose your 13 Desserts platter?
Want to incorporate this tradition into your Christmas? Here are some tips for making your tray a success:
- The essentials : Make sure you have the four beggars, the two nougats, and the oil pump. These items are the foundations of the 13 desserts.
- fresh fruit : Choose seasonal produce like clementines and oranges. Add dates for an exotic touch.
- Local specialties If you're in Provence, enjoy calissons and artisanal biscuits. If you're elsewhere, adapt with regional sweets.
- The presentation : Arrange desserts on large platters or in beautifully decorated bowls. Don't forget the oil pump as the centerpiece!
Provençal markets: The best place to find your 13 desserts
To compose your platter, nothing beats a stroll in the Provençal Christmas markets.
Here you'll find quality dried fruits, artisanal nougats, and even freshly made olive oil pumps. These markets are also an opportunity to meet passionate producers and soak up the warm, festive atmosphere.
An evolving tradition
Although the 13 desserts are a ancient custom, it continues to adapt to the modern tastesToday, some families are replacing calissons with chocolates, adding macaroons, or even iced desserts. The important thing is to maintain the spirit of sharing and conviviality.
For expatriate Provençals or those discovering this tradition, the 13 desserts are often a way to recreate the atmosphere of Christmases of yesteryearThey embody this simple but precious idea: celebrating together the joys of life with what we have available.
The 13 desserts, an invitation to share
The magic of the 13 desserts lies in their ability to bring generations together around the table. This unique moment marks the end of the Christmas meal, but also the beginning of a convivial evening where everyone can freely help themselves, savoring the sweets while sharing stories and laughter.
Experience the spirit of Christmas
Find here our suggestions for activities in the Grand Avignon to enjoy the holiday season!
On 13 Christmas desserts in Provence are not just a culinary tradition: they are a true art of living, a celebration of simplicity, terroir and human connection. So, whether you are Provençal by birth or simply curious about this custom, let yourself be tempted by this gourmet and symbolic universe. And this year, why not set up your own platter of the 13 desserts? Whether to honor tradition or simply to share a warm moment with your loved ones, one thing is certain: this sweet abundance will make the eyes of young and old alike sparkle!
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