With Christmas only a week away, the time has come to consider exactly what to serve for the holiday. Just like at Thanksgiving, many families have beloved traditions and set menus — to them, we say, Merry Christmas.
However, for those who want something a little different, some of Houston’s top bakeries (and a high-flying visitor from New York) are offering up a range of sweets that should provide a memorable conclusion to any holiday meal. Here's five of our favorite options.
Fluff Bake Bar
The Midtown bakery will once again sell its signature stump de noel ($48): a six-inch tall, six-inch in diameter twist on the classic buche de noel made with devil's food cake and salted caramel buttercream. Alternatively, diners may want to consider purchasing a pistachio cake topped with whipped marscapone ($28). Order by 7 pm on December 21.
Common Bond
This popular spot has a full range of breads, cakes, and sweets that will complement any holiday meal. Why buy a boxed panettone at some warehouse store when a freshly made, locally baked option exists? Other treats include a decorated Santa cake (filled with chocolate mousse), gingerbread men, and all the usual pies. Pick-up available December 23 and 24.
Harris & Essex
The farmers market fave offers a full range of holiday dessert options, including pies and cookie boxes. The yule log, which features chocolate cake filled with vanilla cream that’s rolled into a log and decorated with chocolate buttercream, marzipan, and meringue, looks particularly tempting. Order by December 20.
Lady M Confections
As it did during Mother’s Day weekend, the New York City-based bakery will once again hold a pop-up in the Galleria. Unlike in May when customers could purchase individual slices, this time around only whole cakes are available in medium (serves four to six) or large (serves 10 to 14) sizes. Whether opting for the vanilla-flavored “signature” or green tea flavor, each cake is made up of at least 20 ultra-thin crepes held together by pastry cream. Pre-order online or risk a lengthy wait by walking up.
Café Poêtes
Add a little French flair to that holiday table courtesy of this Midtown cafe that specializes in sweet and savory eclairs. For Christmas, Café Poêtes is selling a Croquembouche ($84), a petite version of the special French cake made of 28 stacked, crème-filled choux pastries combined with caramel. Orders require 72 hours notice, so act fast.
Behold the Croquembouche.
