Christmas in Finland is a magical time of year, marked by serene snow-covered landscapes, warm gatherings, and a mix of ancient and modern traditions. As the home of Santa Claus, or Joulupukki, Finland has a unique and globally recognized approach to this festive season. Here’s how the Finns celebrate Christmas in their own enchanting way.
Advent and Christmas Preparations
The Christmas season in Finland begins with Advent, a period of anticipation and preparation. Families clean their homes thoroughly, symbolizing a fresh start and making way for festive decorations. Candles, stars, and wreaths adorn windows and tables, brightening the long, dark winter nights. Many homes also feature an Advent calendar, with doors revealing chocolates, small gifts, or even activities to enjoy daily.
In towns and cities, Christmas markets (joulutorit) become the heart of the festive season. These markets offer everything from handmade crafts and ornaments to traditional Finnish delicacies like gingerbread cookies (piparkakut) and mulled wine (glögi). The bustling atmosphere is a cherished part of the holiday season.
Santa Claus and His Finnish Roots
Finland is proud to be the official home of Santa Claus. The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, located in the Arctic Circle, attracts visitors from around the world. Here, children and adults alike can meet Santa, visit his post office, and even send letters with an authentic Arctic Circle stamp. This magical village operates year-round but becomes especially lively in December, adding to the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Eve: The Heart of the Celebration
While December 25th is significant, the true celebration in Finland happens on Christmas Eve, December 24th. The day begins with the declaration of the “Christmas Peace” in the city of Turku, a tradition dating back to the 13th century. This solemn announcement, broadcast across the country, sets the tone for a peaceful and joyous holiday.
Families gather for a festive meal, which often includes:
• Baked ham (kinkku): The centerpiece of the meal, typically roasted to perfection.
• Casseroles (laatikot): Dishes such as potato, carrot, and rutabaga casseroles are common.
• Rosolli salad: A colorful beetroot salad served with a dollop of whipped cream.
After the meal, Finns exchange gifts, often delivered by Santa Claus himself. In Finland, Santa is said to knock on the door and ask, “Are there any well-behaved children here?” before handing out presents, making the experience magical for young and old alike.
The Sauna Tradition
A quintessential part of Finnish Christmas is the sauna. Families visit the sauna on Christmas Eve as a way to relax, cleanse, and connect with the spiritual side of the holiday. This tradition is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and symbolizes purity and renewal.
Midnight Mass and Christmas Day
For those observing the religious aspects of Christmas, attending midnight mass on Christmas Eve or a morning church service on Christmas Day is a meaningful tradition. Churches are beautifully lit with candles, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the frosty outdoors.
Christmas Day itself is a time for rest and reflection. Many families spend the day quietly, enjoying the company of loved ones, sipping hot drinks, and indulging in leftovers from the Christmas feast.
The Magic of Finnish Winter
The natural beauty of Finland plays a big role in the Christmas atmosphere. Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights create a backdrop that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Many Finns embrace outdoor activities such as sledding, skiing, and ice fishing during the holiday season, making the most of their winter wonderland.
Boxing Day and Beyond
In Finland, Boxing Day, or St. Stephen’s Day, is also a public holiday. While less formal than Christmas Eve or Day, it is a time for socializing, outdoor fun, or visiting extended family. The festive season continues into the New Year, with Finns cherishing the lingering warmth of the holidays.
Christmas in Finland is a heartwarming blend of tradition, nature, and togetherness. Whether it’s the anticipation of Santa Claus, the joy of family meals, or the tranquil beauty of the Finnish winter, the season captures the essence of peace and goodwill. For Finns, Christmas isn’t just a holiday—it’s a time to connect with loved ones and celebrate the magic of life.
Recipe for Korvapuusti (Finnish Cinnamon Rolls)
Korvapuusti, meaning “slapped ears,” are traditional Finnish cinnamon rolls with a distinctive twisted shape. These sweet, aromatic buns are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or to accompany coffee during kahvittelu (coffee breaks). Here’s how you can make them at home.
Ingredients
For the dough:
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 100°F (37°C)
• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3½ cups (420 g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
For the filling:
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For topping:
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Pearl sugar (or coarse sugar)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
• In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
• Stir in the sugar, salt, egg, and melted butter. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
• In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
3. Shape the Rolls:
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16 x 12 inches or 40 x 30 cm) on a floured surface.
• Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly over the dough.
• Roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log. Trim the edges if needed.
4. Cut and Shape the Rolls:
• Slice the log into 12–14 equal pieces.
• To create the traditional Korvapuusti shape, gently press down the center of each roll with the back of a knife or your thumb, flattening it slightly to spread the layers outward.
5. Second Rise:
• Place the shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Cover with a towel and let them rise for 20–30 minutes.
6. Bake the Rolls:
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the rolls with beaten egg and sprinkle pearl sugar on top.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
• Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
• If you can’t find pearl sugar, coarse sugar or even a light sprinkling of regular granulated sugar can work.
• These rolls freeze well. Store extras in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Korvapuusti with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy Finnish fika moment!
Recipe for Lusikkaleivät (Finnish Spoon Cookies)
Lusikkaleivät, or “spoon cookies,” are a classic Finnish treat. These buttery, crumbly cookies are filled with jam and shaped using a spoon, giving them their distinctive look. Perfect for holiday gatherings or with a cup of coffee, they are a must-try Finnish dessert.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
• 200 g (1 cup) unsalted butter
• 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 300 g (2½ cups) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
For the filling:
• ½ cup (120 g) raspberry or apricot jam (or your favorite jam)
For coating:
• 50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
Instructions
1. Brown the Butter:
• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns a golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
• Remove from heat and let the butter cool slightly until it begins to solidify but is still soft.
2. Mix the Dough:
• In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Take a teaspoon and press a small amount of dough into the bowl of the spoon to form a domed shape. Gently slide the dough out and place it on the baking sheet, flat side down. Repeat with the remaining dough.
4. Bake the Cookies:
• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Assemble the Cookies:
• Once the cookies are cool, spread a small amount of jam on the flat side of one cookie. Press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
6. Coat with Sugar:
• Roll the assembled cookies gently in granulated sugar to give them a sweet, sparkly finish.
Tips:
• Use a small spoon (about 1 teaspoon size) to shape the cookies for the traditional look.
• Store Lusikkaleivät in an airtight container. They taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
Enjoy these delicate Finnish cookies with coffee, tea, or as part of your Christmas cookie spread!
Recipe for Joulutorttu (Finnish Christmas Star Pastries)
Joulutorttu, or Finnish Christmas star pastries, are a classic treat enjoyed during the holiday season. These flaky, buttery pastries are filled with sweet plum jam and shaped into festive stars. Here’s how you can make them at home.
Ingredients
For the dough:
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (250 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
• A pinch of salt
For the filling:
• 1 cup (250 g) prune or plum jam (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: A splash of orange juice or cinnamon to enhance the jam’s flavor
For finishing:
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough:
• In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Stir in the sour cream and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
2. Prepare the Filling (Optional):
• If using store-bought jam, you can enhance its flavor by gently heating it with a splash of orange juice or a pinch of cinnamon. Let it cool before using.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch (3 mm) thickness. Cut the dough into 3-inch (7.5 cm) squares.
4. Shape the Stars:
• For each square, make a small diagonal cut from each corner toward the center, stopping about ½ inch (1 cm) from the middle. Place a teaspoon of plum jam in the center.
• Fold one corner of each triangle toward the center to create a pinwheel or star shape. Press gently to seal.
5. Egg Wash and Bake:
• Place the shaped pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Cool and Dust with Sugar:
• Let the pastries cool slightly on a wire rack, then dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips:
• The dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
• If you can’t find prune jam, other jams like apricot, raspberry, or apple work well as substitutes.
Serve these delightful pastries with a cup of coffee or glögi (Finnish mulled wine) for an authentic Finnish Christmas experience.
Not Your Grams Kitchen 