4 PEPPERMINT BARK Crunchy, creamy, minty. Peppermint bark is an American holiday icon that arrived in India through chocolate boutiques and quickly found its fans. While peppermint isn’t a traditional Indian flavour, it pairs naturally with the milk chocolates and dark chocolates we love. Many Indian chocolatiers add their own spin with layers tempered to perfection and flecks of desiinspired toppings like candied orange peel or toasted almonds. Its festive colours, ease of gifting, and refreshing bite make it a December hit, especially for those who like their sweets slightly cool and crisp. Where to buy: Chocolate Confusion (Mumbai), Zitter Chocolates (Chennai), Mozimo Chocolates (Chandigarh) PUMPKIN PIE The quintessential American holiday dessert, pumpkin pie feels unexpectedly at home in India thanks to its familiar warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These spices echo the masalas we use in everything from halwa to chai, making pumpkin pie instantly comforting. Indian bakers often use the locally loved “kaddu” purée, giving the pie a deeper earthiness. Its custard-like texture, flaky crust, and mellow sweetness make it a fresh yet rooted addition to India’s Christmas menu. Especially among those who enjoy experimenting with global flavours. Where to buy: Toujours (Mumbai), Crave by Leena (Bengaluru), Petite Pie Shop (Gurugram, Delhi) 5 THE CHRISTMAS PUDDING Few Christmas rituals are as theatrical as a flaming pudding! That iconic blue flame dancing atop a brandy-soaked dome. This British classic travelled to India with colonial households and stayed on through generations of Anglo-Indian and Goan families. Dense with dried fruits, candied peel, and warming spices, it tastes like winter distilled. In India, many households steam their puddings weeks in advance, allowing them to mature, deepen, and become heady with spirit. Served with custard or buttered rum sauce, a flambéed pudding brings old-world charm to Indian Christmas tables. Where to buy: American Express Bakery (Mumbai), Katy’s Kitchen (Mumbai), By The Way Bakery (Mumbai), Gaylord Bakery (Mumbai) 6 FRESH.DAILYPIONEER.COM • DECEMBER 2025 13
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