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The origin of the Thirteen Desserts seems to be part of the tradition of opulence in the Mediterranean regions. Combined with the religious element, this tradition gave the Christmas season its festive character well before gifts inundated households. The thirteen desserts are in reference to Jesus and his twelve apostles at the Last Supper. As tradition goes, there must be at least thirteen sweets available.
They are all served at once, and each guest must have at least a small bite of each dessert. Upon returning from Mass, the table was set with three tablecloths representing the Holy Trinity, upon which the Thirteen Desserts were set.
The tradition is to break the bread into individual servings with the fingers, rather than cut the bread with a knife. Walnuts stand for the Augustinians, almonds for the Carmelites, raisins for the Dominicans, and figs for the Franciscans. A platter of fresh fruit usually counts as one dessert, and is always served after Gros Souper.
Any combination of seasonal fruit is welcome, and fresh berries rarely make the list, although they would be considered acceptable, as well.
