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Impossible to imagine Christmas in Provence without the famous table of the 13 desserts. A true invitation to indulgence and sharing, this array of sweet treats is part of the holiday magic.
Dried fruits, nougat, calissons, papillotes... as many little wonders to savor without moderation (or almost!) to end the meal on a festive note. Discover this gourmet tradition.
The symbolism of the 13 desserts
In Provence, the end-of-year celebrations last for several weeks, from December 4 (the day of Saint Barbara) until Candlemas (February 2), culminating on December 24 with its 13 desserts bringing together young and old around the table.
These desserts represent Jesus Christ surrounded by the 12 apostles at the Last Supper. But beyond this symbolism, the 13 desserts embody celebration, comfort, and generosity.
The “big supper”
On the evening of December 24, families gather around the “big supper,” a hearty meal: soup, fish, vegetables. The table is carefully set with three white tablecloths, in reference to the Holy Trinity. The finest tableware is used, and an extra place setting is placed, in case a poor person happens to pass by. But the eagerly awaited and favorite moment for all is the dessert.
What are the 13 desserts?
There are as many versions of the 13 desserts as there are Provençal villages and families, but here is what is most commonly found on the table of the 13 desserts: 1. The pompe à huile (oil pump): a sweet fougasse with olive oil, soft and fragrant. 2. Dates 3. Black nougat 4. White nougat 5. The four mendicants 6. Calissons d’Aix 7. Quince paste 8. Fresh fruits: apples, pears, oranges, ... 9. Walnuts 10. Watermelon: a green melon that keeps until Christmas 11. Dried figs 12. Papillotes 13. Candied fruits
Traditionally, Provençal 13 desserts are accompanied by mulled wine*, made from grape must.
Our favorite Provençal desserts
At Comptoir de Mathilde, we love desserts! We offer you a selection of treats to enjoy on Christmas Eve... or at any other convivial moment: - Our bag of chocolate papillotes with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and fruit paste: to bring a festive and indulgent touch to your table. - Our Sweet Christmas box: an assortment of calissons, nougats, and caramels to evoke the magic of the holidays - Our mendicant box: delicious discs of dark or milk chocolate filled with dried fruits in the Provençal tradition
And many other Christmas treats to discover by clicking here.
Whether you strictly adhere to the Provençal custom or adapt it to your taste, the essential thing is to celebrate conviviality, generosity... and indulgence. The entire Comptoir de Mathilde team wishes you a Merry holiday season!
*Excessive drinking is harmful to health, to be consumed in moderation.
