As the festive season in America arrives, it’s more than just decorating and gathering with loved ones. It’s also a time when the country’s bakeries showcase their innovation and skill, producing savoury delights that are not only delicious but also visually impressive. With everything from playful cakes to gingerbread masterpieces, the holiday dessert scene in America is a remarkable display that caters to diverse preferences and customs.
So join us on a delightful journey through some of the most beloved holiday treats that have captured the hearts and satisfied the cravings of Americans.
Santa Down The Chimney Cake at Deerfields Bakery
Located in the charming town of Buffalo Grove, IL, sits Deerfields Bakery, a magical two-story bakery that could easily be mistaken for Shakespeare’s very own abode. While they offer a plethora of delightful treats, one confection in particular reigns supreme during the festive season – the “Santa Down The Chimney Cake.” This playful cake showcases none other than Santa himself, belly-first into a chimney, with his plump, red frosting-covered behind stealing the show. Available in chocolate or vanilla, this delectable creation is filled with creamy buttercream, making it a must-try for any holiday celebration.
When you enter Deerfields Bakery, you’re not just buying a cake but immersing yourself in an unforgettable experience. The charming cafe beckons you to relax with a steaming cup of coffee and soak up the holiday spirit while marvelling at the impressive array of seasonal treats. And for those who like to get their hands dirty, both locations offer DIY cookie kits to unleash your creativity and create your own Hanukkah confections at home.
Gingerbread Pinecone by Dominique Ansel
The Gingerbread Pinecone, a true masterpiece, is the brainchild of renowned chef Dominique Ansel, whose innovative culinary skills always push boundaries. With incredible attention to detail, Ansel has handcrafted this charming dessert, delicately shaping over 60 petals to give it a stunning appearance. Layers of spiced speculoos, ganache, ginger-infused mousse, and moist spice cake create a perfect blend of flavours. The gingerbread pinecone is coated in rich dark chocolate and dusted with a flurry of confectioner’s sugar, resembling a winter wonderland. Indulging in this delicious creation is genuinely a treat for all the senses.
Even though Ansel began his career in cooking in Las Vegas, his efforts are now concentrated in the Soho bakery in the centre of New York City. But in case you can’t make it to New York City, Ansel has locations in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Paris, and the Flatiron neighbourhood of New York.
Rosca de Reyes at La Monarca Bakery
In Los Angeles, the arrival of December marks the much-anticipated appearance of La Monarca Bakery’s traditional Rosca de Reyes cakes. Celebrating Three Kings Day, or Dia de los Reyes, these circular desserts are studded with dried fruit, reminiscent of the jewels adorning the crowns of the three wise men. To add an element of surprise and fun, a small plastic baby figurine is hidden within the cake, and whoever discovers it in their slice must throw a party later!
La Monarca uses a signature pan dulce dough, complemented by a cookie crust, candied cactus, and walnuts. The bakery offers multiple locations across Los Angeles, allowing patrons to indulge in the festive spirit by dining in or opting for convenient pick-up or delivery services.
Happy Hanukkah Bundt Cake at Nothing But Bundt Cakes
The Festival of Lights got even sweeter thanks to Nothing But Bundt Cakes’ latest creation – the Happy Hanukkah Bundt Cake. This delectable treat is available at their Peabody, MA, location and 500 other establishments across the US and Canada. The best part? You can customize it to your liking! With various flavours like vanilla, red velvet, carrot, and lemon, and an array of frosting options, including their signature frosting petals and drizzle frosting, the possibilities are endless.
The cake comes adorned with a quote card on a stick that wishes a “Happy Hanukkah,” accompanied by a black and white photo card showcasing dreidels. A royal blue bow sits atop the cake, and the entire creation is elegantly gift-wrapped in cellophane, presenting a beautiful and delicious gift for the holiday season.
Peppermint Bark Shake at PLS on Post
For those seeking a refreshing and indulgent treat, the Peppermint Bark Shake at PLS on Post in San Francisco is a true delight. This creation hails from a new restaurant within the Hotel Zeppelin, paying homage to the city’s 1960s counterculture with the acronym PLS, standing for Peace Love Soul.
Experience a sensory explosion with every sip of the Peppermint Bark Shake. This festive treat boasts a blend of chocolate and vanilla ice cream blended with peppermint essence, topped with candy canes, sprinkles, and two types of Ghirardelli peppermint bark. The finishing touches of whipped cream, chocolate sauce, chocolate frosting along the rim, and a cherry on top genuinely capture the essence of the holiday spirit, creating a feast for the senses.
Mont-Blanc Dessert at La Grande Boucherie
For a taste of traditional French elegance during the holiday season, head to La Grande Boucherie in New York City. Amidst the beautiful holiday decorations, indulge in the exquisite Mont-Blanc dessert. Named after the iconic mountain due to its towering chestnut cream peaks, this dessert is a visual and culinary masterpiece.
The Mont-Blanc dessert begins as a vanilla tart shell filled with a delectable combination of pear, black currant, and chestnut. Adorned with gleaming gold leaves atop the “mountain,” it pays homage to a 15th-century Italian dessert that found its way to France. While its origin might be debated, one thing is sure—executive pastry chef Jean-Baptiste Scordel creates a beautiful and delicious holiday dessert that transports your taste buds to a world of refined indulgence.
Conclusion
Let’s celebrate America’s diverse and delicious holiday sweets as we end. With abundant flavours, textures, and creative masterpieces, there’s something to tantalize every palate. From charming cakes to intricate gingerbread wonders, from cultural classics to decadent shakes, there’s no shortage of festive delights to tempt us. So, indulge in the sweet magic this holiday season and let these culinary wonders add an extra dash of joy to your celebrations.
