The Different Types of Bonbons and Their Origins

Christmas crackers and bonbons have become an integral part of the festive season. While crackers are known for their popping sounds and hidden surprises, bonbons are known for their colorful appearance and sweet treats inside. However, not all bonbons are the same, and their origins can vary greatly. In this article, we'll explore the different types of bonbons and where they come from.

Traditional Christmas Bonbons

The traditional Christmas bonbon is a cylindrical paper container filled with small toys, sweets, and other treats. These bonbons originated in the UK during the Victorian era and were initially called 'crackers'. They got their name from the sound they made when they were pulled open, which sounded like a crackling fire. Over time, the crackers evolved into bonbons, and their contents became more varied and elaborate.

Today, traditional Christmas bonbons are still popular in the UK and other parts of the world. They're typically made with brightly colored paper and decorated with festive designs. The treats inside can include small toys, jokes, puzzles, and sweets.

French Bonbons

In France, bonbons are a type of candy that's made by boiling sugar and other ingredients to create a soft, chewy texture. French bonbons come in a wide range of flavors and colors, and they're often shaped like fruits or other objects. These sweets are typically sold in small, individually wrapped packages and are popular during the festive season.

Italian Confetti

In Italy, the term 'confetti' is used to refer to small candies that are often coated with a sugary shell. Confetti can be traced back to the 15th century, when they were used during weddings and other celebrations. Today, confetti is still popular in Italy and is often given as a gift during the festive season. These sweets can be made with almonds, chocolate, or other flavors and colors.

German Marzipan

Marzipan is a type of almond paste that's used to create a variety of sweets and treats. In Germany, marzipan is a popular ingredient in Christmas baking and is often shaped into festive objects like snowmen, trees, and stars. Marzipan can also be used to create small bonbons that are filled with chocolate or other flavors. These sweets are often wrapped in colorful foil and sold in gift boxes.

Australian Bonbons

In Australia, bonbons are similar to the traditional Christmas crackers found in the UK. They're made with paper and filled with small toys, jokes, and treats. However, Australian bonbons often have a unique twist, with designs that feature native animals or other Australian-themed elements. These bonbons are typically sold in sets and are a popular addition to Christmas celebrations in Australia.

The Origins of Bonbons

The origins of bonbons can be traced back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and the Greeks, who used honey and nuts to create sweets. Over time, the art of candy-making spread throughout Europe, and new varieties of sweets were developed.

The modern bonbon as we know it today is thought to have originated in France during the 17th century. The word 'bonbon' comes from the French phrase 'bon pour bon', which means 'good for good'. These sweets were originally made by wrapping almond paste in a thin layer of sugar, but over time, the recipe evolved to include other flavors and ingredients.