Must Have Sweets & Cookies for Christmas in Rhode Island

December 12, 2023

In the heart of Rhode Island, where winter’s chill embraces the holiday landscape, Christmas cookies take on a special significance during the holidays. From the quaint kitchens of Providence to the coastal towns lining Narragansett Bay, the artistry of cookie-making becomes a cherished ritual both at home and by talented local bakers celebrating Christmas in Rhode Island.

Whether baking from scratch or buying a selection from their favorite bakery, Rhode Islanders, known for their warmth and community spirit, elevate the seasonal cookie exchange to an art form. In many cases, each confection is a unique reflection of the state’s diverse heritage. As snow blankets the streets, the aroma of gingerbread and sugar cookies wafts through homes, weaving a tapestry of festive flavors that define Christmas in the Ocean State.

Here are some of our favorite places to find holiday sweets and cookies in the tradition of Rhode Island:

Pastiche, Providence, Rhode Island

Christmas in Rhode Island wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the heart of the Federal Hill neighborhood – the epicenter of the state’s Italian-American community. Pastiche Fine Desserts transforms the season into a symphony of sweetness with its exquisite array of holiday cookies. As you step into this culinary haven, the air is infused with the irresistible scents of spiced gingerbread, buttery shortbread, and delicate Linzer cookies. Pastiche’s masterful bakers craft each treat with precision, capturing the essence of the season. From intricately decorated sugar cookies to decadent yule logs, the display at Pastiche reflects a commitment to tradition and innovation. Enjoy assorted cookie baskets and boxes with almond Biscotti, chocolate chip cookies, Russian tea cakes, chocolate walnut truffles, rugelach, and lemon squares. Prices range from $22-$75. Pastiche, 92 Spruce Street, Providence.

Ellie’s, Providence, Rhode Island

Ellie’s Bakery unfolds a winter wonderland with its enchanting bûche de Noël ($60) and holiday treats. A culinary gem, Ellie’s transforms the French yule log into a masterpiece of flavors, where sponge cake meets velvety ganache in a symphony of chocolate indulgence. The holiday treats, adorned with festive charm, extend beyond the bûche de Noël to include intricately decorated sugar cookies, delicate macarons, and other seasonal delights. Pick up the pre-wrapped Holiday Cookie Collection with an assortment of lime glazed, ginger spice, peanut butter, oatmeal chip, and fig cookies, as well as chocolate bouchons, for $45. Ellie’s artistry and commitment to quality make each bite a journey through festive bliss, elevating the holiday experience in Providence for years. Ellie’s, 225 Weybosset Street, Providence.

Sin Bakery, Providence, Rhode Island

Sin Bakery crafts holiday magic with their delectable treats, featuring the enchanting allure of holiday yodels ($15 for 4), Orange Cranberry Cheesecake ($30-$50), and an array of seasonal delights. Sin’s holiday yodels, a festive twist on Drake’s classic treat, blends rich chocolate and creamy filling, creating a bite-sized celebration. The Orange Cranberry Cheesecake is a symphony of flavors, combining zesty citrus with tart cranberries for a decadent holiday indulgence. Sin’s cookies can be made as a two-dozen platter or a five-dozen platter, and will delight any gift recipient or party hostess ($36-$90). Sin’s commitment to creative culinary artistry transforms each treat into a delectable masterpiece, making the holidays in Providence a sensory delight of sweet surprises and festive flavors. Sin, 1413 Westminster Street, Providence.

Scialo Bros. Bakery, PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND

Scialo Bros. Bakery has stood as a beacon of Italian culinary tradition at Christmas in Rhode Island since 1916. Renowned for its commitment to authenticity, Scialo Bros. elevates the season with a homemade special treat – Torrone. This traditional Italian nougat, crafted with honey, nuts, and egg whites, is a festive delicacy that transports taste buds to the heart of Italy. With each bite, Scialo Bros. weaves a tale of generations past, preserving the essence of Italian heritage in Providence and creating a cherished connection to the sweet traditions of the old country. Scialo’s famed cookie trays are available in 3lb., 5lb, 8lb., or a whopping 10b.! Their Menu di Natale (Christmas menu) includes struffoli, Pan di Zenzero (gingerbread cookies), Crostata di Noci & Lampone (Linzer Tart with walnut crust and raspberry filling), pound cakes in flavors including butter rum almond, cappuccino walnut, cranberry orange, lemon poppy, and more, plus pies, cakes and more. (Contact for pricing). Scialo Bros. Bakery, 257 Atwells Avenue, Providence.

Aleppo Sweets, Providence, Rhode Island

This authentic Syrian bakery transports patrons on a gastronomic journey, bringing the flavors of Aleppo to the Ocean State. Renowned for its commitment to tradition, Aleppo Sweets crafts an array of delicacies, each bite a testament to the flavors that define Syrian cuisine. With warmth and authenticity, this bakery not only satisfies cravings, but also fosters a sense of connection to the vibrant, diverse culture, and beloved hospitality of the Syrian people.

This time of year, indulge in the variety of authentic Syrian baklava, handmade fresh by refugees. Get classic baklava with chopped almonds, chopped pistachios, or chopped walnuts, or try the Lady Fingers – crushed pistachios tossed in orange blossom extract, rolled in layers of crispy phyllo dough, and lightly drizzled with simple syrup. Our suggestion: get the variety tray with a selection of four varieties of baklava. 2 pounds or approximately 24-28 pieces. $45-$80. Be sure to order ahead! Aleppo Sweets, 107 Ives Street, Providence.

Navad Bakery, Farmer’s Markets Statewide & Providence Pick Up

Formerly known as Buns Bakery, Navad Bakery is still owned and operated by baker Guy Hanuka, who grew up  in Tel-Aviv. From slightly sweet challahs to decadent rugelach, Navad Bakery captures the essence of Israeli baking traditions. With each golden crust and rich filling, patrons experience a taste of the Mediterranean, celebrating the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Israeli cuisine. This time of year, indulge in the delights of Sufganiyot, the irresistible Hanukkah treat. Sufganiyot, the traditional Israeli jelly-filled doughnuts, are a triumph of flavors that have been enchanting taste buds for generations. Picture a cloud-like pillow of perfectly fried dough, coated in a fine dusting of powdered sugar, and generously filled with luscious, velvety jelly. Available at farmers’ markets statewide and order pickups at East Providence headquarters. Navad.co Pickup at Farmers markets around the state and preorders can be picked up at their East Providence HQ’s.

The French Confection, Middletown, Rhode Island

The French Confection in the heart of Aquidneck Island is a delectable escape into the world of French-inspired delights. Since 1991, the bakery has been bringing the highest quality patisserie to its customers from a fifth generation French baker and pastry chef from Reims, a city in northeastern France’s Grand Est region. As the season descends, this bakery turns out a festive display, enchanting locals with an array of traditional French holiday treats. From delicate éclairs to flaky croissants, each creation reflects the meticulous artistry and timeless elegance of French pastry. The scent of butter and the sight of intricately decorated holiday confections create an atmosphere of joy and indulgence.

The Christmas menu here includes fruit cake with cognac, gingerbread cookies, Christmas tea cookies, truffles, sugar plums, deep dish pies, Linzer tortes, and of course, bûche de Noël (in a few flavors, including Grand Marnier buttercream). The French Confection is a destination where the spirit of French patisserie intertwines with the magic of the holiday season. The French Confection, 72 East Main Rd., Middletown.

JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT: The Annual Cookie Walk 

This annual event at The Warren Baptist Church is much anticipated each year. It is their #1 fundraiser and worth the wait! The parishioners bake and decorate over 5000 beautiful cookies each year to the delight of all that go. From ugly sweaters to traditional Santa’s, trying to find the most unique design each year is so much fun! Doors open to a flood of people at 9 am, Saturday 12/16 where everyone hustles to fill their boxes. $15 per pound. Such a great tradition at Christmas in Rhode Island! Warren Baptist Church,16 Miller St., Warren (on the corner of Main & Miller).

Sharing these festive confections brings families and friends together, creating cherished moments and traditions. And if you’re looking for one-on-a-kind places to do your holiday shopping in Rhode Island, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s the warmth of gingerbread, the sweetness of sugar cookies, or the richness of peppermint delights, these treats embody the essence of the season, making holidays brighter and memories sweeter. In each cookie exchanged, the spirit of generosity and merriment prevails, making the season truly magical.