December 10, 2015
The holidays are a time to cherish family, traditions and food, the latter of which may arguably be the most highly anticipated part of the season.
Holiday treats, passed down through generations with recipes from around the world, often carry memories that last well beyond the cravings.
But sometimes these beloved treats disappear from our holiday spread, whether it's with the passing of a loved one or because of the time and energy they take when we're overwhelmed with shopping, wrapping and ugly Christmas sweater partying.
But behold, below are four traditional holiday desserts created by professional chefs that you can find at local restaurants. No cooking required.
Panettone is an Italian sweet bread that's often given to friends and family as a gift around the holidays. As Italians Piergiorgio and Amy Nicoletti wrote at DeLallo, "Natale without panettone would be considered a sad Christmas indeed."
High Street on Market, located in Philadelphia's Old City neighborhood, makes homemade panettone and pies that Nonna would be proud of. They can be ordered and picked up to be brought to your table or given as gifts.
For details, click here.
Gingerbread has become synonymous with Christmas, and according to foodtimeline.org, it's probably the first cake or cookie traditionally associated with the holiday.
Everyone loves gingerbread as a cake, cookie or even a candy-laden homemade house. Old City's Farmicia helps keep the flavors and tradition alive with its lemon ginger cake, served year-round and in high demand during the holidays.
For details, click here.
Christmas pudding, sometimes called plum pudding, has roots in medieval England. Today, it has made its way around the world, including to Philadelphia, where it is made and served at The Victoria Freehouse in Old City.
The Victoria Freehouse serves a variety of Christmas puddings, including sticky toffee pudding and gingerbread trifle.
For details, click here.
Old City's Cuba Libre is known for bringing a bit of spice and creative flair to its culinary concoctions.
The Cuban Milk dessert martini is a boozy, seasonal delight that infuses white Crème de Cocoa, nutmeg and gin in a sprinkle-rimmed glass.
For details, click here.
