People have envisioned Christmas cakes as trees due to our deep spiritual connection with forests that dates back to antiquity. Evergreen trees and logs symbolize the renewal of life and the arrival of light—eternal symbols bonding humanity with nature.

Shaped like a log, the Bûche de Noël cake (Yule log) symbolizes a family gathered around the hearth praying for the new year. The layered Baumkuchen cake, which represents a tree’s growth rings, is a sweet delight that celebrates rings of prosperity and longevity.

Cakes with forms taken from trees bring gratitude for nature and prayers for renewal to the dining table, suggesting a sense of reverence for nature and peace.

This year’s theme, Woodland Noël, depicts a fantastical stage with forest owls and deer dancing, vibrant colors and lively rhythms. While solemn reflection is never amiss, why not also express heartfelt gratitude for nature’s bounty through this light-hearted tale of forests and trees?

Yasuko Sato
Art Director