Viking Cruises

Swedish style Christmas Elves VANILLEKIPFERL Vienna, Austria Delicately crescent-shaped and meltingly tender, vanillekipferl are a Christmas staple in Austria. Made with ground almonds and dusted in vanilla sugar, these dainty cookies are as elegant as the city's Christmas markets, where they're often nestled among marzipan fruits and chocolate truffles. LEBKUCHEN Nuremberg, Germany Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is legendary for its lebkuchen— soft, spiced gingerbread rounds glazed or chocolate-coated and often almond-studded. Fragrant with nutmeg, cloves, and honey, these handcrafted treats are a nostalgic bite of Germany's festive spirit and make for the perfect edible souvenir. FEUERZANGENBOWLE Salzburg, Austria Part drink, part fiery spectacle— Feuerzangenbowle is a dramatic variation of glühwein. A rum- soaked sugarloaf is set ablaze and slowly melts into a pot of hot mulled wine below. You'll find this theatrical treat in Salzburg's festive squares, where the flames dance as merrily as the music. FOIE GRAS & OYSTERS Paris, France For a touch of Parisian luxury, many markets offer foie gras and fresh oysters, often paired with Champagne. These delicacies are especially popular at upscale markets like Notre Dame and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where gourmet French fare meets festive elegance. DRESDNER STOLLEN Dresden, Germany With its rich, buttery dough packed with candied citrus, raisins, and a dusting of powdered sugar, stollen is Germany's crown jewel of festive baking. Now a UNESCO-protected tradition, the most authentic version can be found in Dresden's Striezelmarkt, where bakers follow centuries-old recipes in celebration of Saxon heritage. See our recipe on page 17 to make your own at home. KARTOFFELPUFFER Cologne, Germany Crispy, golden, and irresistibly comforting, Kartoffelpuffer— Germany's beloved potato pancakes—are a staple at Christmas markets across the country. Made from grated potatoes, onion, and flour, they're pan-fried until crisp and served piping hot. Traditionally paired with sweet applesauce, they're also delicious with sour cream or smoked salmon. Vanillekipferl Kartoffelpuffer Dresdner Stollen viking.com | 11 C H R I S T M A S I S S U E 2 8

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