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Christmas Eve in Norway Tastes Like Tradition. One Dessert Dominates
The choice of dessert is strongly linked to Christmas traditions. Adobe Stock / licencja standardowa / gpointstudio
More than half of Norwegians choose riskrem (rice pudding with whipped cream) as their Christmas Eve dessert. According to a Norstat survey, 55 percent of people who have an established dessert tradition opt for this variant.
The survey was conducted in November 2025 on behalf of the Milk and Dairy Products Information Office (MELK). Riskrem is most often served with a red sauce (usually raspberry). The tradition of searching for an almond is also upheld. This custom accompanies the Christmas Eve dinner in many Norwegian homes.
According to MELK, the choice of dessert for Christmas Eve is strongly tied to long-standing traditions. Dairy-based desserts continue to dominate the holiday menu.
According to MELK, the choice of dessert for Christmas Eve is strongly tied to long-standing traditions. Dairy-based desserts continue to dominate the holiday menu.
Regional Differences in Dessert Choices
The study also points to clear regional differences. In Northern Norway and the Trøndelag region, a cream dessert with cloudberries is popular.
It is chosen by 33 percent of respondents. The cloudberry is a fruit characteristic of the northern and central areas of Norway.
It is chosen by 33 percent of respondents. The cloudberry is a fruit characteristic of the northern and central areas of Norway.
Cloudberries play an important role in local dessert traditions.Photo: flickr.com/John Boyd
Other Sweets on the Holiday Table
In addition to the two main desserts, Norwegians also reach for other sweets. Caramel pudding is chosen by 9 percent of respondents, and ice cream or ice cream cake by 7 percent.
Christmas cookies and fruit salad also appear on tables, each with 4 percent of responses. Other desserts account for 3 percent of answers.
Christmas cookies and fruit salad also appear on tables, each with 4 percent of responses. Other desserts account for 3 percent of answers.
Searching for the almond in the dessert is part of the tradition.Photo: MELK
The Role of Dairy Products in Norwegian Christmas Eve
The strong presence of cream-based desserts highlights the role of dairy products in Norwegian holiday traditions. The choice of dessert often depends on local customs and the availability of regional ingredients.
Thanks to this, the Christmas Eve menu in Norway remains diverse. Traditional recipes are still present in many homes.
Thanks to this, the Christmas Eve menu in Norway remains diverse. Traditional recipes are still present in many homes.
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