With the advent of Christianity and the changes in heating and cooking technologies, the tradition of the Yule Log changed from burning a large log to baking a dessert the resembles a log.
Marzipan is a confection consisting primarily of sugar or honey and almond meal (ground almonds), sometimes augmented with almond oil or extract.
Chocolate is treat that so many of us love and crave, however, it seems that many admirers do not understand the shelf life of chocolate. It actually has a fairly long shelf life, lasting for six months to a year depending upon whether it is milk or dark chocolate and if it includes any additives like coconut, nuts or dried fruit.
From Italy, we have one option that is said to be about 500 years old, Panettone. It is typically, a tall light and fluffy bread made with butter eggs, dried raisins, pieces of orange and lemon or lime juice with a tall paper wrap to help keep its shape.