35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (2024)

Table of Contents
Starters: Cold Spanish Christmas Food 1. Entremeses: Chorizo, cheese, lomo… 2. Boiled Shrimp 3. Iberico Ham 4. Spanish Garlic Shrimp Spanish Garlic Shrimps Recipe Ingredients Instructions Notes 5. Boquerones en vinagre 6. Marinated Cazon Fish 7. Tetilla Cheese Puffs Spanish Tetilla Cheese Puffs Ingredients Instructions Notes Recommended Products 8. Gambas a la Plancha 9. Pulpo a la Gallega 10. Ensaladilla Rusa First Course: Warm Spanish Food for Christmas 11. Seafood 12. Sopa de Galets 13. Cured Ham Croquettes Spanish Ham Croquettes Recipe (Croquetas) Ingredients Instructions Recommended Products 14. Spanish Berenjenas con Miel 15. Bacalao a la Vizcaína Second Course: Hearty Spanish Christmas Food 16. Cochinillo Asado 17. Lamb 18. Paella Paella Recipe Ingredients Instructions Notes Recommended Products 19. Baked Fish with herbs Spanish Baked Fish with Herbs Ingredients Instructions Notes 20. Pavo Trufado de Navidad Spanish Christmas Desserts & Sweet Food 21. Spanish Christmas Cookies – Spanish Almond Cookies (Polvorones) Spanish Almond Cookies Ingredients Instructions Notes 22. Turrón 23. Mantecados 24. Roscón de Reyes 25. Marzipan 26. Spanish Flan Spanish Flan Ingredients Instructions 27. Churros con chocolate 28. Yemas 29. Alfajores 30. Leche Frita Spanish Christmas Drinks 31. Cava 32. Sangría 33. Jerez Dulce 34. Ponche Navideño 35. Vino Dulce Quick Overview of Christmas traditions in Spain The legendary Spanish Lottery Christmas Mass in Spain Reyes Magos bring the gifts A short FAQ about Spanish Dishes for Christmas What is a traditional Christmas treat in Spain? What are some Spanish Christmas traditions? What are typical Spanish Christmas desserts? How to say food in Spanish? What does Spain eat for Christmas? What do Spanish people eat on Christmas? What do people in Spain eat for Christmas? What do Spanish people eat at Christmas? What do they eat in Spain for Christmas? References
A Foodie Guide to Spanish Christmas Food, including Starters, Warm Spanish Food, Desserts & Christmas Desserts

Christmas is a big deal in Spain.

Not only because it has a lot of festivities going on during this holiday season, but also because people get to spend special time with family and friends.

Well, to be honest, there are a few unique traditions I look forward to when visiting Spain during this time of year.

The best one is that I get to enjoy the Spanish Christmas food that tastes even better when shared in such a genuine atmosphere.

The ultimate goal is to enjoy Christmas and New Year, and it just so happens that I am writing about the 35 best Spanish foods for that purpose.

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Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough of Spain? Have a look at my other posts:

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  • Off-The-Beaten-Path Spain Attractions

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Table of Contents

Starters: Cold Spanish Christmas Food

1. Entremeses: Chorizo, cheese, lomo…

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When it comes to tasty and easy Spanish food, entremeses is among my top choices. They are appetizers that are extremely easy to make, and they are an essential part of the Spanish Christmas menu.

They mainly consist of hand-carved food slices and the most authentic Spanish food that goes in entremeses are chorizo, cheese, and lomo.

Still, if you have some Jamon, you can mix it up a bit.

You just need a few minutes and a bit of creativity, andvoilà, it’s done! Enjoy your Spanish holiday foods!

Buy Spanish chorizo here

2. Boiled Shrimp

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Another super easy dish that is on my top list of Spanish food to prepare is the boiled shrimp.

Spanish people love it, and it’s no wonder that preparing seafood is not only famous Spanish food in general but also a Spanish Christmas tradition.

You don’t need many ingredients (except shrimp; you need water, some ice, sea salt, and a slotted spoon).

It takes no more than 7-8 minutes to prepare them, perfect for the busy holiday season!

3. Iberico Ham

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Jamón Ibérico is a ham that Spain takes pride in. It is one of the most popular Spanish food.

Also, it is one of the main ingredients in numerous meals, whether we are talking tapas, SpanishChristmas appetizers, or meals during regular days or holidays.

Iberico ham has an incredible taste, and it can be served on its own. It’s the ultimate Spanish Christmas food and cannot be missed at any party.

However, you can mix it with all sorts of vegetables, eggs, cheese, and so on.

I typically make beautifully decorated plates to enjoy while watching Spanish Christmas movies with my friends.

Shop Iberico Ham here

4. Spanish Garlic Shrimp

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In the case of Spanish culture food, nothing beats a good tapa. Gambas al Ajillo, or garlic shrimp, is a classic spicy Spanish food dish.

It is very popular to prepare seafood during the holidays. This one is exciting because it has a rich flavor, and it is one of the easy Spanish food recipes.

Follow this recipe and try to make it on your own:

Yield: 4

Spanish Garlic Shrimps Recipe

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In the case of Spanish culture food, nothing beats a good tapa. Gambas al Ajillo or garlic shrimp is a classic spicy Spanish food dish.

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time10 minutes

Total Time25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound shrimps
  • 5-6 garlic cloves
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup butter – unsalted
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

    1. Sauté butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and pepper in a pan over medium heat for about a minute.
    2. Add shrimps, lemon juice, and paprika afterward and continue to sauté for another few minutes.
    3. When the shrimps are done, season it, and serve the whole dish with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

Shrimps take no time to get cooked, so make sure you have all the ingredients ready and close by. Nobody likes overcooked shrimps.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 367Total Fat: 27gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 270mgSodium: 1154mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 26g

5. Boquerones en vinagre

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Marinated anchovies or boquerones en vinagre is another traditional Spanish Christmas food that is commonly made not only during Christmas but in general.

You can find it all year round, but I like it served as Spanish Christmas food as it is one of the most traditional Spanish tapas for Christmas.

If you want to make them at home, you should know that the secret of the boquerones is that they are marinated in vinegar and virgin olive oil.

Also, they are usually dressed with parsley and minced garlic.It’s one of the top choices of Spanish Christmas food.

Recipe: Spanish Boquerones en Vinage

6. Marinated Cazon Fish

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Are you particularly fond of Spanish finger food? And a fan of Andalusia?

Then, you’ll be happy to know that during Christmas, it is customary to prepare one of its most famous tapas: marinated Cazón fish, one of my absolute favorites!

It’s not complicated to make, and you don’t need a lot of ingredients – dogfish and a lot of seasoning (oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, vinegar, garlic, and oil).

But to get the most out of the taste, you’ll need to leave it in the fridge before frying it for at least 7 to 8 hours.

Also, if you happen to have vegetarian or vegan friends over for the holidays, there are alternative recipes that include tofu or nori flakes rather than fish.

Check the recipe here

7. Tetilla Cheese Puffs

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One of the main reasons I love Christmas is that I get to eat a lot of homemade food.

So, for a person who wants something simple, delicious, and yet to be a traditional Christmas food in Spain recipe, Tetilla cheese puffs are a perfect choice.

What makes these cheese puffs typically Spanish is its main ingredient – Tetilla cheese made in Galicia, a region in north-western Spain.

Buy Spanish tetilla cheese here

You can try out the recipe below:

Yield: 4

Spanish Tetilla Cheese Puffs

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What makes these cheese puffs typically Spanish is its main ingredient – Tetilla cheese made in Galicia, a region in north-western Spain.

Prep Time20 minutes

Cook Time10 minutes

Total Time30 minutes

Ingredients

  • flour (2/3 cup)
  • 2 eggs
  • baking powder
  • paprika (1/2 teaspoon both)
  • tetilla cheese (3 ounces)
  • Manchego cheese (1/4 cup)
  • salt and olive oil

Instructions

    1. Mix the flour, baking powder, paprika, and a bit of salt in one bowl
    2. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with tetilla cheese, Manchego cheese, egg yolks, and the previous flour mixture.
    3. Put the mixture in the fridge for a 20min.
    4. Heat the oil, and in the meantime make rolls out of the refrigerated mixture.
    5. Fry the puffs and use the paper towels to remove the excess oil.

Notes

If you don’t have Manchego you can use parmesan cheese

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 242Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 107mgSodium: 380mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 10g

8. Gambas a la Plancha

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Let me share with you a delightful holiday treat that’s practically a party on a plate – Gambas a la Plancha, aka grilled prawns.

Trust me, if you’re a seafood lover, this one’s going to be a game-changer for your festive spread!

The thing about Gambas a la Plancha is the simplicity that turns into sheer perfection.

The prawns are grilled to juicy, smoky goodness, creating a flavor explosion with every bite.

So, if you’re aiming to add a dash of coastal celebration to your holiday festivities, Gambas a la Plancha is your seafood go-to.

You’ll definitely have a traditional Spanish Christmas dinner.

9. Pulpo a la Gallega

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Pulpo a la Gallega, or Galician-style octopus, is a dish that’s like a culinary journey to the charming northwest of Spain.

If you’re up for a tasty adventure, this traditional delight is a must-try that’s bound to make your taste buds do a happy dance.

So, imagine a tender octopus perfectly cooked in that sweet spot where it’s neither too chewy nor too soft.

The paprika adds a smoky kick, the salt enhances the natural oceanic goodness, and the olive oil ties it all together in a symphony of flavors.

You will absolutely enjoy a Christmas dinner in Spain once you try this recipe!

Check the complete recipe here

10. Ensaladilla Rusa

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While its name might suggest Russian origins, Ensaladilla Rusa is actually a beloved Spanish Christmas starters that is also enjoyed during the Christmas season.

This creamy potato salad is typically made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, carrots, peas, and sometimes tuna or olives.

With its rich, flavorful taste and satisfying texture, it is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside other holiday dishes.

Whenever I’m in Spain during the holiday season, Ensaladilla Rusa is one of my absolute must-try!

Recipe: Spanish Potato Salad

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First Course: Warm Spanish Food for Christmas

11. Seafood

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Seafood plays a major role in the Spanish kitchen.

Whether I talk about traditional or modern dishes, it is difficult to imagine that meals, especially in Southern Spain, don’t have one or more seafood ingredients.

In fact, many of the most popular Spanish food include seafood as the main part and integral part of Spanish Christmas meal ideas.

The frequently eaten seafood is usually shrimp and all kinds of fish because they are delicious, affordable, and not complicated to prepare.

You now have Spanish Christmas dinner ideas for the next holiday!

12. Sopa de Galets

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A traditional Christmas lunch in Catalonia wouldn’t be complete without warm soup known as Sopa de galets.

There is more than one way to prepare Sopa de galets, so you can choose if you’d like to use only vegetables, meat, or both.

I make this recipe the usual way, which is to make this soup, is to make pasta and broth or to make pasta and broth and add meatballs to it.

Make sure you eat it warm, as it is the way they eat it in Catalonia. It’s one of the best Spanish Christmas food from this region.

13. Cured Ham Croquettes

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Croquettes are another example of typical Spanish food, and the number of variations in recipes is enormous.

When it comes to ham as one of the common ingredients in Spanish meals, it should be no surprise that ham croquettes are also present as a Christmas food in Spain.

Most of the ingredients, such as eggs, bread crusts, salt, pepper, milk, flour, onions, and oil, can be found in our homes, making it one of the easiest Spanish Christmas food recipes.

The only thing I bought is the ham itself, and then I can start cooking following a simple recipe. It’s an inexpensive dish, yet a feast to the senses.

Yield: 4

Spanish Ham Croquettes Recipe (Croquetas)

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The most popular croquettes areCroquetas de Jamonand the secret of their divine taste lies in a special type of ham –Serrano Jamon.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup/100 mL chicken broth
  • 8 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3/4 cup/107 grams flour
  • 1 1/2 cups/350 mL milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Dash of ground pepper
  • 1/2 cup ham (very finely hand-minced, so it can be mixed thoroughly with the dough)
  • 2 eggs, beaten lightly
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
  • 1​ bottle Spanish olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Dice the ham and the onion. Meanwhile, you need to melt the butter in a pan, and to add onions, nutmeg, and ham.
  2. Make sure to sauté until it gets a nice color. Start stirring constantly while adding the flour. Note that if you stop stirring the flour will burn.
  3. When you see the brown color, start adding milk slowly without stopping to stir. Once it is done, let the mixture cool.
  4. Put the whole amount in the plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours. You need to make small logs afterward if you want to get a nice croquette shape.
  5. Before frying the logs, make sure to pass each one through the bread crumbs.

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14. Spanish Berenjenas con Miel

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I find the tapa culture in Spain amazing and diverse. For example, if I visit Sevilla, Berenjenas con Miel, one of their signature tapas, is a must eat.

This one is especially popular among people who don’t eat meat as it is one of the few original tapa recipes that are not altered to be vegetarian.

The great thing is that you need about 15 minutes to prepare it, and you need two eggplants, flour, pepper, milk, salt, olive oil, and honey.

It is a delicious fried and crispy tapa that can quickly become Spanish food from Spain you’d regularly enjoy.

Check the complete recipe here

15. Bacalao a la Vizcaína

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Let me introduce you to a Spanish holiday dishes that’s basically a flavor party on a plate – Bacalao a la Vizcaína, or salted codfish in a rich tomato and red pepper sauce.

The thing about this dish is that it’s comforting yet sophisticated.

The salted cod brings a unique depth of flavor, and the tomato and red pepper sauce elevates it to a whole new level.

Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up that delectable sauce, and you’ve got yourself Spanish holiday recipes for royalty.

Second Course: Hearty Spanish Christmas Food

16. Cochinillo Asado

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If you want to feel Spanish for Merry Christmas during the big family gatherings, you should consider Cochinillo Asado or the roast suckling pig.

It is the most typical among the traditional Christmas dinner in Spain recipes, and it originated in the city of Segovia.

The preparation of the roast suckling pig is not complicated, but it does take time and skill, as you need to get the seasoning right.

Also, you should keep in mind that this pig, unlike the pigs we are used to seeing in the markets, is a lot smaller, so make sure to search for the proper one.

Recipe: Spanish Roast Suckling Pig

17. Lamb

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Depending on the region you want to explore in Spain, the Spanish Christmas dinner can be very different.

Still, the simplest dishes are usually the best ones, and a proper roast lamb is just that. Like with any other meat, it takes time to roast a lamb to perfection.

You should keep it at a low temperature for at least a few hours to get a tender and smooth texture. To make it even more traditional, you can serve it with potatoes and onions.

For me, an essential Spanish Christmas eve dinner would not be complete without this!

18. Paella

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There is no chance to talk about Spanish cuisine without mentioning Paella as it is one of the things on what is Spain known for.

It is by far the most known dish from Spain, not to mention its incredibly interesting historical background and the variety of recipes.

To make a real paella, you’d need to have a special paella pan. It is usually made with either seafood or chicken and rice.

Although it isn’t quite the same, there are ways to make paella without having any special equipment and enjoy this exquisite food journey through Spanish history.

This is one of the Spanish Christmas food recipes I look forward to!

Yield: 4

Paella Recipe

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The all-time classic dish from Spain

Prep Time30 minutes

Cook Time1 hour

Total Time1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon of pepper, rosemary, and saffron
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 diced onion
  • 1 diced paprika
  • 1 cup of rice
  • ¾ pounds of boneless chicken
  • 1 freshly squeezed lemon

Instructions

  1. You need to heat the oil inpaella(a flat pan specially made for this dish).
  2. Add vegetables (onions are a must, but garlic and paprika are also needed)
  3. Make sure to season the meat you choose to put inpaella(commonly it is chicken, rabbit, or snails) while pan-frying it.
  4. The next step is to add water, rosemary, and saffron, and let everything boil. Make sure to remove rosemary once it starts falling apart.
  5. The last step is to add rice and simmer everything until the rice is cooked. Note that the most common way to garnishpaellaastypical Spain foodis to squeeze a lemon over the meal.

Notes

The paella needs to cook until the broth is fully absorbed

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As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 270Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 76mgSodium: 82mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 27g

19. Baked Fish with herbs

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If you’d rather have fish for your big Christmas meal rather than lamb or pork, Spanish cuisine won’t fail you (it is not called a foodie paradise for no reason).

It is one of the easiest Spanish Christmas dishes.

The packed flavor can come from many things, but one commonly known in north-west Spain involves herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano, among other ingredients.

Here is an easy Spanish Christmas recipe:

Yield: 4

Spanish Baked Fish with Herbs

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The packed flavor can come from many things, but one commonly known in north-west Spain involves herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano, among other ingredients.

Prep Time1 hour 50 seconds

Cook Time20 minutes

Total Time1 hour 20 minutes 50 seconds

Ingredients

  • oregano
  • rosemary
  • thyme (2 teaspoons each)
  • red pepper (2 tablespoons)
  • garlic (1 minced clove)
  • onion (1, minced)
  • ripe tomatoes (150g, sliced)
  • lemon (1, juiced)
  • white vine (150ml)
  • potatoes (800g, sliced)
  • bread crumbs (2 tablespoons)
  • olive oil (4 tablespoons)
  • fish (1kg)

Instructions

    1. Cut the vegetables in small dices
    2. Take the baking pan and arrange potatoes, onion, garlic, and pepper while sprinkling oil over it.
    3. Add tomatoes and bake for an hour and a half.
    4. While the potatoes are baking, prepare the herb mixture in a bowl
    5. Add lemon and vine
    6. Set aside the fish sprinkled with salt and oil
    7. When the potatoes are ready, put the fish over them
    8. Cover with the herb mixture
    9. Let it cook in the oven for another 15 minutes

Notes

You can use any type of fish, just make sure that it is cooked right (avoid overcooking)

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 185Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 84mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 3gSugar: 5gProtein: 14g

All information presented and written are intended for informational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. The writers and publishers of paulinaontheroad.com are not nutritionists or registered dietitians. Statements within this site have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

20. Pavo Trufado de Navidad

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Oh, you’ve got to hear about this mouthwatering Christmas tradition they have in Spain – the Pavo Trufado de Navidad, or as I like to call it, Christmas turkey with truffles.

So, imagine your classic Christmas turkey, right? Now, add a touch of luxury with truffles. It is one of the best Spanish Christmas recipes you shouldn’t miss.

The truffles bring this earthy, rich flavor that pairs ridiculously well with the tender turkey.

It’s like they were made for each other – a holiday power couple, if you will.

Spanish Christmas Desserts & Sweet Food

21. Spanish Christmas Cookies – Spanish Almond Cookies (Polvorones)

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Almond cookies are Spanish Christmas cookies that are also known as Polvorones.

It’s interesting to know that Polvo means dust in Spanish, and the name is connected with the fact that these cookies are covered with a lot of sugar that makes them ”dusty”.

Just like Paella, these cookies also have a rich historical background rooted in the era of the Spanish Inquisition.

They are easy to make and certainly a perfect choice for the whole family to enjoy while setting Spanish Christmas decorations to enjoy the full experience of Spain.

Buy traditional polvorones here

The Spanish almond cookies can be made by the following recipe:

Yield: 4

Spanish Almond Cookies

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Almond cookies are Spanish Christmas cookies that are also known asPolvorones.

It’s interesting to know thatPolvomeans dust in Spanish, and the name is connected with the fact that these cookies are covered with a lot of sugar that makes them ”dusty”.

Prep Time1 minute

Total Time1 minute

Ingredients

  • flour (1 and a half cup)
  • almonds (3/4 cup, raw)
  • margarine (4 ounces)
  • sugar (3/4 cup)
  • cinnamon (2/3 teaspoon)

Instructions

    1. Toast the flour and the almonds in a separate baking pan for about 10 minutes.
    2. When baked, put the almonds in the food processor and make an ‘’almond flour’’ out of it.
    3. In a bowl, mix all of the above ingredients with the flour and almonds.
    4. Flatten the mixture with the rolling pin and use a cup to make even circles from the dough.
    5. Bake the cookies for about 25 minutes and let them cool completely.
    6. You can sprinkle extra sugar over the cookies.

Notes

These cookies are served cold as they might fall apart otherwise.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 147Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2mgCarbohydrates: 26gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 3g

22. Turrón

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Turrón is one of the special and unavoidable Christmas sweets in Spain, one of the top things that Spain is known for.

It is also one of the most popular Spain Christmas recipes.

It is said that historically, Moors brought it while trying to conquer the land somewhere in the 13th century.

Although there are plenty of Turrón recipes throughout the country, the classic version has one special ingredient – toasted nuts. You also need eggs, sugar, and honey to fully enjoy it.

It would be hard to imagine that almost every house in Spain during Christmas doesn’t have at least one kind of Turrón, and nowadays, they often make it any time of year.

If you are spending winter holidays in Spain, you can’t leave without tasting Turrón from small, local shops.

Buy turrón from Spain here

23. Mantecados

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Another Andalusian Christmas food I look forward to – this time a sweet one, that will make you feel the joy of Christmas.

Polvorones and mantecados are an essential part of the Christmas tradition, and they are usually homemade and served as cookies in oval and round shapes.

Mantecados got their name from the type of fat that is used as an ingredient.

Although some people won’t find them fancy, these cookies are one of the best ways to make you feel at home. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about anyway?

Buy mantecados here

24. Roscón de Reyes

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Well, the festivities in any Spanish house wouldn’t be complete without making the Kings’ cake to celebrate January 6th, the day of Reyes Magos.

This is a crown-shaped sweet bread like a cake made once a year.

It is usually topped with something colorful and sweet and stuffed with whipped cream or chocolate.

It is also customary to put a ceramic figurine in the cake, and whoever gets it in the slice gets good luck for the year.

It’s one of the most typical Spain Christmas foods.

Check the complete recipe here

25. Marzipan

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One of the most famous marzipan is marzipan de Toledo, a Christmas dessert from the Toledo region in Spain.

It is made from almonds, sugar, flour, eggs, and water and in different shapes.

Just like the almond cookies, marzipan is also a very popular homemade dessert.

It is super easy and affordable to make, and once you try it, you must love it. It is a great dessert to enjoy the holidays without worries.

Buy Spanish marzipan here

26. Spanish Flan

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One of the must-try items on a Christmas dessert menu is Spanish flan. It is one of those sweets that makes you jiggle inside in a positive way.

It takes only four ingredients to make it, and in less than an hour and a half, you get to enjoy one of the most popular Spanish desserts for Christmas.

It is smooth and silky, and it is vanilla; you can’t go wrong with that.

Yield: 4

Spanish Flan

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Flanis a traditional Hispanic cold dessert that has a characteristic creamy and smooth taste. The best thing aboutflanis that you can experiment with adding different flavors and still get to eat a refreshing and flavorsome snack.

This is another easy-to-make recipe suitable even for those who are not kitchen masters.

Ingredients

  • 1 can of condensed milk
  • 1 can of evaporated milk
  • White sugar
  • 1 spoon of vanilla extract
  • Water
  • 6 eggs

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the sugar into 1 spoon of water and boil until you get caramel syrup when done pour into the pie dish.
  2. On the other hand whisk eggs with both types of milk, sugar, and extract of vanilla until you get a smooth mass.
  3. Add it over the caramel and cover it with aluminum folia.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours afterward.
  5. When done, invert theflan, letting the caramel flow over.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 267Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 309mgSodium: 219mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 0gSugar: 16gProtein: 16g

27. Churros con chocolate

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (45)

Did you know that the oldest churrerias in the world are located in Spain?

If I were asked about the first thing that comes to mind about food in Spain, most likely churros would be in the first two things.

It is one of the best snacks from Spain, and a must-try food to try in Madrid.

Spain indeed has many trademarks, but when it comes to food, churros are one of the most recognized.

It is no wonder why churros con chocolate can be found as one of the sweet parts of the Christmas celebration.

There are two main parts of this dessert – the fried dough and the chocolate sauce to dip the churros in. And that’s it, it’s as simple as that.

If you want to make it at home, have a look at this heart-warming Spanish hot chocolate recipe.

Check recipe here

28. Yemas

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (46)

Yemas or egg yolks are another traditional dessert. The term yemas is connected with Santa Teresa, and it is said that they originated from her birthplace, Ávila.

The yemas are just egg yolks with sugar and water, baked with a certain technique.

The secret is that after you finish, you have to let them sit for at least 24 hours before serving them.That way, you get a nice, crystalized yolk mixture that is nice to see and tasty to consume.

I really love this delicious Christmas dessert!

Recipe: Yemas de Santa Teresa

29. Alfajores

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (47)

After indulging in hearty Spanish Christmas foods for dinner, there’s nothing quite like capping off the meal with a delicious dessert.

One of my favorites is alfajores, a traditional Spanish cookie made with a blend of almonds, honey, and spices, sandwiched together with rich dulce de leche or jam, and often dusted with powdered sugar.

It’s one of the most extraordinary Spanish Christmas desserts and the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling after a wonderful Christmas celebration.

Recipe to make the best Alfajores

30. Leche Frita

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One of my all-time favorite Spanish Christmas desserts has to be Leche Frita. Despite its name, which translates to “fried milk,” this treat is far more decadent than it sounds.

It’s a traditional Spanish Christmas recipes made by thickening sweetened milk with flour and cinnamon, then chilling it until firm.

The result is a dessert that’s crispy on the outside, creamy and soft on the inside, and often dusted with sugar and cinnamon.

Leche Frita is comforting, indulgent, and a perfect way to end any holiday meal in Spain!

Check the recipe here

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Spanish Christmas Drinks

31. Cava

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Just as it is important to have the best food during the holidays, it is equally important to have a great wine to completely enjoy the days off. Spanish Cava is what we would know as champagne.

It goes back to the 19th century, and since then, it has been one of the most respected Catalan drinks.

Of course, everything sparkly just goes with the Christmas spirit, and what better drink to complement it than sparkling wine?

There are many varieties of Cava, and they all go incredibly well with Christmas lunch or dinner.

If you’re in Catalonia, don’t forget to visit wineries near Barcelona to learn more about the winemaking process.

Buy Spanish cava here

32. Sangría

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If you love the Spain food culture, don’t miss this drink! Sangria, a beloved Spanish drink, is very common in Spanish households.

You can combine sangria with other festive punch ingredients like cranberry juice, ginger ale, and pomegranate molasses.

Garnish with cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and cinnamon sticks for a stunning presentation.

It’s a festive, fruity option that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you warm.

33. Jerez Dulce

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Regardless of being stuck with some daily tasks or enjoying the most important holiday meal, Jerez Dulce is a drink to keep nearby.

They are naturally sweet, and since sherry, in general, needs a lot of time to age properly, Jerez Dulce can’t be a wrong choice.

If you’re wondering what to eat in Spain at Christmas time, Jerez wine is a must!

Buy Jerez Dulce from Spain here

34. Ponche Navideño

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After eating traditional Spanish food for Christmas, no celebration is complete without a glass of Ponche Navideño.

This traditional holiday drink is a warm and comforting blend of flavors that will leave you feeling cozy and festive.

Typically made with water, sugar, citrus fruits, cinnamon, cloves, and anise, it is often spiked with rum or brandy for an extra kick.

Every time I indulge in Ponche Navideño, I’m transported to lively holiday gatherings filled with laughter and cheer, making it an essential part of my Spanish Christmas experience.

35. Vino Dulce

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If you’re looking for a sweet and indulgent treat to complement your Spanish christmas meals, Vino Dulce is a must-try.

This sweet dessert wine, often made from Pedro Ximénez or Muscat grapes, is rich and luscious, with flavors ranging from caramel and dried fruit to honey and nuts.

It’s the ideal accompaniment to traditional Christmas desserts like turrón or polvorones, as its sweetness enhances the flavors of these treats.

Sipping on a glass of Vino Dulce, one of the best Spanish Wines, makes me feel a touch of luxury in my holiday celebrations, which makes me look forward to another celebration the next year.

Quick Overview of Christmas traditions in Spain

Spanish food culture is one of its most famous features, and for a good reason. It is a foodie paradise of sorts, and just imagine tasting Spanish Christmas food.

So, regardless of your location during the holiday season, here are some of the best meals you can try.

You can also prepare (I included a few Christmas recipes) for yourself or the people you plan to spend Christmas with.

Traditional Spanish Christmas lasts for days, and there are a lot of events going on.

Not only the most beautiful places in Spain but every single town in Spain is beautifully decorated during this time of the year.

The legendary Spanish Lottery

One of the biggest is the Spanish National Lottery, also known as El Gordo.

The fun fact is that it is the biggest lottery in the world (held since 1812), and more or less, the whole of Spain participates in it.

Also, it is customary that instead of the classical Spanish Christmas song, people sing the lottery winning numbers.

Christmas Mass in Spain

For those who are eager to celebrate their faith, there is also La Misa Del Gallo organized on Christmas Eve.

This Misa is also known as the Midnight mass. It is common to eat a Christmas dinner before or after this event.

Reyes Magos bring the gifts

Although there are many more interesting traditions from the country, I would mention two more because they are rather unique.

The first one happens on January 6th, and it is called Los Reyes Magos, or the three kings who are known to give sweets and presents to the children (not Santa Claus).

A short FAQ about Spanish Dishes for Christmas

What is a traditional Christmas treat in Spain?

The most traditional Christmas treats in Spain are turron, pestiños, and marzipan

What are some Spanish Christmas traditions?

Some of the most popular Spanish Christmas traditions are the Spanish National lottery, El Reyes Magos and Midnight mass.

What are typical Spanish Christmas desserts?

Some very typical Spanish Christmas desserts are Polvorón, Mantecados, Roscón de Reyes.

How to say food in Spanish?

To say ‘food’ in Spanish, you would use the word comida.

What does Spain eat for Christmas?

Some of Spain holiday foods include a variety of dishes such as roast lamb (cordero), seafood delicacies like bacalao (salted cod), and traditional sweets like turron and polvorones.

What do Spanish people eat on Christmas?

Christmas foods in Spain may include dishes like roast lamb, seafood, especially bacalao (salted cod), Spanish Christmas tapas, and various regional specialties, complemented by sweet treats like turrones and polvorones.

What do people in Spain eat for Christmas?

Spain Christmas food meals typically feature roasted lamb or suckling pig, seafood dishes like prawns, and desserts such as turrón (nougat), polvorones (crumbly shortbread), and marzipan.

What do Spanish people eat at Christmas?

People in Spain enjoy Spanish food on Christmas delicacies like jamón ibérico (Iberian ham), sopa de galets (a pasta soup), pavo trufado (truffled turkey), and desserts such as roscón de reyes (a ring-shaped cake) and mantecados (crumbly cookies).

What do they eat in Spain for Christmas?

Traditional food in Spain for Christmas includes cochinillo (roast suckling pig), bacalao (salted cod), and desserts like alfajores (almond and honey cookies) and leche frita (fried milk pudding).

You can’t get enough of Spanish Christmas food? Have a look at my below.

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (60)
35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (61)

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (62)

Paulina

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

35 Spanish Christmas Food You Must Try! - Paulina on the road (2024)

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