As the winter season approaches, many of us start to crave the warm and cozy flavors of traditional German Christmas treats. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory, crunchy or soft, Germany has a rich array of festive recipes to bring joy to your holiday gatherings. From classic Stollen fruit bread to decadent Christstollen cake, there’s something for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 traditional German Christmas recipes that will make your mouth water and your heart feel merry. From cookies and cakes to savory dishes and drinks, these authentic German recipes are sure to become new holiday favorites. So grab a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) and get ready to indulge in the magic of German Christmas baking!
Stollen (German Christmas Fruit Bread)
Stollen is a classic German Christmas fruit bread that’s sweet, buttery, and filled with dried fruits and spices. This traditional recipe is perfect for the holiday season, making it an excellent addition to your festive spread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
– 1/2 cup candied citron, diced
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and orange liqueur (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in candied citron, raisins, and chopped almonds.
5. Shape into a log and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
These soft and spicy gingerbread cookies are a traditional Christmas treat in Germany. With their sweet and savory flavors, they’re perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Raisins or nuts for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, honey, oil, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. Stir in chopped crystallized ginger and egg until well combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christstollen (Classic German Christmas Cake)
Christstollen, a classic German Christmas cake, is a sweet and fragrant bread filled with raisins, nuts, and spices. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and its sweet aroma fills the air during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, sugar, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Beat in egg and mix until smooth.
4. Fold in raisins, almonds, cinnamon, and cardamom.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pfeffernüsse (Spiced German Christmas Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are a staple of the holiday season, filled with warm spices and perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee. With their unique blend of flavors and delicate texture, Pfeffernüsse are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Marzipankartoffeln (Marzipan Potatoes)
A sweet and savory twist on traditional potatoes, Marzipankartoffeln combines the warmth of marzipan with the comfort of mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup marzipan (almond-based), finely ground
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, sugar, marzipan, salt, and pepper.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
These delicate cookies, known as Vanillekipferl, are a staple of German baking. With their crispy edges and chewy centers, they’re the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., crescents, circles).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Star Cookies)
These sweet and spicy cookies are a traditional German treat, perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add cinnamon, baking powder, and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs, then gradually add flour until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into stars using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each star.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spekulatius (Spiced German Shortbread Cookies)
Inspired by traditional Dutch and German recipes, these buttery cookies are infused with the warm aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a sweet gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and mix well.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Almond Cookies)
Bethmännchen, a beloved German cookie, combines the sweetness of marzipan with the crunch of almonds. These delicate treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) marzipan
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine marzipan, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in sliced almonds and beaten egg.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Printen (Aachener Spiced Honey Cake)
This classic German dessert is a sweet and spicy delight, perfect for the holiday season. With its rich honey flavor and warm spices, Printen is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, honey, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dominosteine (Layered Christmas Pastry)
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this classic German holiday treat! Dominosteine, or layered Christmas pastry, is a delightful combination of buttery dough, sweet marzipan, and festive spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup marzipan, divided into 3 equal pieces
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place one-third of the marzipan on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon, cardamom, and sugar.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 two more times.
8. Place pastries on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Christmas Cookies)
Springerle cookies are a classic Christmas treat originating from Germany and Austria. These anise-flavored wonders have been a holiday tradition for centuries, with their intricate designs and sweet aroma filling homes during the festive season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add anise extract and mix well.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then gradually add flour.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Glühwein (Mulled Wine)
Warm up with this traditional German mulled wine recipe, perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 2 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced oranges and lemon, whole cloves, and cinnamon pieces.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it warm for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, add the brown sugar and water, stirring until dissolved.
5. Serve hot in mugs or cups, garnished with additional citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Enjoy your warm and cozy Glühwein!
Feuerzangenbowle (Flaming German Punch)
This traditional German punch is a showstopper at any holiday gathering or special occasion. With its fiery presentation and rich flavors, Feuerzangenbowle is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 shot of rum (optional, but recommended for the full experience)
– 1 tablespoon rum-soaked raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine red wine, apple cider, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. If using rum, carefully ignite the raisins (or a shot of rum) with a lighter or match.
5. Carefully pour the flaming punch into a large punch bowl or individual cups.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the oohs and ahhs!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Kartoffelsalat (German Potato Salad for Christmas)
This traditional German potato salad is a staple at many Christmas gatherings. With its creamy dressing, tangy vinegar, and sweet potatoes, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, and mustard (if using).
4. Add the cooled potatoes to the dressing and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (potatoes) + chilling time
Sauerbraten (German Pot Roast for Christmas Dinner)
This classic German dish is a staple of Christmas celebrations, with its rich flavor and tender texture making it a crowd-pleaser. Sauerbraten, also known as “Pot Roast,” is a slow-cooked beef roast in a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (rump or round)
– 1 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, water, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Add beef to the marinade, making sure it is fully covered. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove beef from marinade and place in a large Dutch oven or pot roast pan. Pour remaining marinade over the beef.
5. Add carrots and celery around the beef.
6. Roast in preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until beef is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot with traditional German sides like potato dumplings (Kartoffelklöße) and red cabbage salad.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Rouladen (Beef Rolls with Gravy)
A classic German dish, Rouladen combines tender beef rolls with a rich and flavorful gravy. This recipe yields a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for special occasions or everyday dining.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup brown gravy mix
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Slice the beef into thin strips. Place a tablespoon of the mushroom mixture onto each strip, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up the beef strips tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the rolled beef in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Meanwhile, prepare the gravy by mixing brown gravy mix with tomato paste and butter.
9. Serve the Rouladen hot with the rich and savory gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut (Sausage with Fermented Cabbage)
This classic German dish combines the rich flavors of grilled bratwurst sausage with the tangy, slightly sweet taste of sauerkraut. A perfect combination for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the bratwurst sausages for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sauerkraut and caraway seeds; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauerkraut mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Serve the grilled bratwurst with the sauerkraut mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spread holiday cheer with these 18 traditional German Christmas recipes! From sweet treats like Stollen (German Christmas Fruit Bread) and Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies), to savory delights like Sauerbraten (German Pot Roast for Christmas Dinner) and Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut (Sausage with Fermented Cabbage), there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of gingerbread, marzipan, or mulled wine, these festive recipes are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
