Candied fruit in Provence | history, how it's made, and where to find it

The history of candied fruits

The tradition of candied fruit, or fruits confits, has origins that stretch back to ancient civilisations. Early techniques can be traced to the Middle East, where honey was used to preserve fruit, offering a way to enjoy nature’s sweetness long after the harvest. By the 14th century, this preservation method had made its way to Europe, where the increasing availability of sugar transformed the process. In Provence, the art of candying fruit flourished during the Renaissance, fuelled by the region’s bountiful orchards and expanding trade routes that brought sugar from distant shores.

Provence’s warm climate and fertile soil provided ideal conditions for growing an abundance of high-quality fruit, from plump apricots to delicate pears. Local artisans in towns like Carpentras perfected the candying process, slowly infusing fruit with sugar over weeks to create translucent, jewel-like confections. Carpentras soon became renowned as the capital of fruits confits, a title it holds to this day. Over the centuries, these delicacies became a cherished part of Provençal culture, preserving the delicious flavours of summer well into the winter months and earning a place in celebrations, from Christmas feasts to the iconic gâteau des rois, the King’s Cake of Epiphany.

Candied fruit in Provençal traditions

In Provence, candied fruit is more than a confection - it is a symbol of heritage and celebration, deeply woven into the region’s cultural fabric. Whether adorning festive desserts or presented as thoughtful gifts, fruits confits carry a sense of tradition and craftsmanship generations old.

Christmas celebrations

Throughout the holiday season, candied fruits take centre stage in Provençal festivities. They are a favoured alternative to chocolates, often gifted in elegantly arranged boxes that showcase their vivid colours and glossy textures. Families incorporate these sweet delicacies into traditional desserts, such as the treize desserts de Noël - the thirteen desserts served after Christmas Eve dinner, representing Christ and his apostles. Learn more about this in our previous article focused on the traditional thirteen desserts. Among dried fruits and nougat, candied fruit brings a luxurious burst of flavour and a connection to the region’s rich culinary history.

Epiphany and the King’s Cake (Galette des Rois)

In Provence, Epiphany is celebrated with a distinct version of the Galette des Rois, which differs from the almond-filled puff pastry commonly found in northern France. The Provençal version is a golden brioche ring, lightly scented with orange blossom water and adorned with jewel-like candied fruits and a sprinkle of pearl sugar. These vibrant fruits - often including cherries, melon, and citrus - symbolise the festive spirit and add a delightful sweetness to the celebratory cake. The tradition also includes hiding a small fève (a figurine) inside the cake, with the lucky finder crowned king or queen for the day.

Beyond these festive moments, candied fruit continues to hold a special place in Provençal households, enjoyed as a delicacy year-round and reflecting the region’s dedication to preserving the finest flavours of its sun-ripened harvests.

Where to find candied fruit in Provence

Confiserie Lilamand, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Founded in 1866, Confiserie Lilamand is one of the oldest and most respected candied fruit makers in Provence. Specialising in a wide range of fruits - from whole candied oranges to delicate pineapple slices - their offerings reflect a meticulous attention to detail and quality. Visitors can step inside their workshop to observe the intricate process that transforms fresh fruit into glossy, flavourful confections, all while soaking up the rich history of this family-run establishment.

Maison Jouvaud, Carpentras

Located in the centre of Carpentras, a town renowned for its long-standing association with candied fruit, Maison Jouvaud is a haven for sweet indulgence. Their shop presents an impressive selection of beautifully packaged fruits confits, making them an ideal choice for festive gifting. With a focus on traditional techniques and artistic presentation, Maison Jouvaud offers a true taste of heritage in every bite.

Apt Union, Apt

Apt, in The Luberon region, has earned a reputation as a key hub for candied fruit production, and Apt Union stands at the forefront. Operating as a cooperative, they work closely with local farmers to source the finest produce, ensuring exceptional quality and authenticity. Their selection ranges from vibrant candied cherries to luscious melon slices, showcasing the diversity of the region’s harvests. The cooperative’s commitment to preserving local traditions makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the story behind Provence’s iconic treats.

Maison Brémond 1830, Aix-en-Provence

For a touch of Provençal luxury, Maison Brémond 1830 in Aix-en-Provence offers an elegant selection of candied fruits alongside other regional specialties, including nougat and fine olive oils. Their carefully curated range celebrates the finest ingredients Provence has to offer, with exquisite presentation that makes them perfect for special occasions. Whether purchasing for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, Maison Brémond’s offerings encapsulate the essence of the region’s culinary excellence.

Markets of Provence

Beyond these renowned establishments, Provençal markets remain one of the best places to discover candied fruit in its most authentic form. From busy town squares to charming village stalls, local markets offer an opportunity to browse an array of handcrafted fruits confits, often sourced directly from small-scale producers. Whether in the weekly markets of Apt, Saint-Rémy, or Aix-en-Provence, these lively gatherings provide a true taste of tradition, allowing visitors to sample and purchase these sweet treasures while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Provence. Learn more about the markets of Provence here.