German Christmas market food guide: 20 foods to try
The holiday vibes in Germany aren't just about twinkling lights and festive decor – they're also about the mouthwatering goodies at Christmas markets. These places are a goldmine for traditional German treats that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. So, whether you're sipping warm Glühwein or munching on a hearty Bratwurst, German Christmas markets are basically foodie heaven.
What many people seem to not know about German Christmas markets is that it is not about the market stalls selling Christmas gifts or decorations. The markets are social events in Germany. People go with friends, colleagues, family to have a good time, drink a little (or a lot) and enjoy the food.
Here's the lowdown on 20 family-friendly foods that you've got to get your hands on at these awesome markets.
Glühwein (Mulled Wine): Grab a cup of Glühwein to warm up. It's like a cozy blanket for your insides – red wine mixed with cloves, cinnamon, and a citrusy kick. This is a basic. You can’t go to a market without trying one. Personally, I also love the mulled ciders. hummmmm!
Sausages (Bratwurst): Can't miss the sizzle of Bratwurst. These grilled sausages in a roll are a meat lover's dream. Kids love them, of course.
Hot Smoked Salmon (Lachs): Feeling a bit fishy? Hot smoked salmon is your go-to – flaky, flavorful, and perfect for a quick bite. This is probably my own personal favourite food to try there.
Hot Smoked Salmon
4. Flammkuchen: Think of it as German pizza – a thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Crispy, cheesy goodness. Many will come with fancy toppings, but simple and basic work best.
5. FlammBrot (Flat Bread): Similar to Flammkuchen but with even more topping choices. A flatbread canvas for all your favorite flavours.
6. Pretzels (Brezeln): Soft, doughy, and sprinkled with salt – pretzels are a snack-time superhero. Dunk them in mustard for an extra kick. Some regions of Germany will also add butter inside (my own kids’ favourite snack).
7. Nuts/Almonds (Gebrannte Mandeln): Caramelized almonds on the go – sweet, crunchy, and seriously addictive.
8. Schupfnudeln: Potato dumplings pan-fried to golden perfection. Think gnocchi in a different shape. Pair them with sauerkraut or a dollop of applesauce for ultimate comfort food.
Schupfnudeln
9. Langos: Deep-fried flatbread topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese. A savoury delight with a Hungarian twist.
10. Käsespätzle: German mac 'n' cheese – egg noodles baked with layers of gooey melted cheese. Cheese lovers, rejoice!
11. Stollen: The Christmas fruitcake of Germany. Loaded with dried fruits, nuts, and dusted with powdered sugar – a sweet slice of holiday heaven.
12. Lebkuchen: Gingerbread cookies in all shapes and sizes. Iced or chocolate-coated – a festive treat for your sweet tooth.
13. Marzipan: Almond and sugar goodness shaped into fruity or animal forms. A cute and tasty holiday treat.
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14. Chestnuts (Maroni): Roasted chestnuts for a warm and nutty snack. Keep those hands toasty while strolling through the market.
15. Quarkbällchen: Sweet, deep-fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar. Light and airy – a sweet indulgence for everyone.
16. Potato Twister (Kartoffellanzen): Imagine a spiral-cut potato on a stick, deep-fried to perfection. Crispy outside, soft inside – a spud-tastic snack. Fun as well as tasty!
Potato Twister
17. Eierpunsch: Warm eggnog-like drink made with eggs, sugar, and milk. Creamy and comforting without the alcohol kick. Not my favourite but it is popular.
18. Waffles (Waffeln): Freshly made waffles, topped with whipped cream and fruits. A sweet delight with an irresistible aroma though, obviously, not typically German.
19. Crepes (Pfannkuchen): Versatile and satisfying dessert – filled with Nutella, fruit, or simply dusted with sugar. A crowd-pleaser the world over.
20. Roasted Apples (Bratapfel): Healthy dessert option – roasted apples filled with nuts, raisins, and cinnamon. Warm and comforting, just like the holidays.
German Christmas markets are a foodie's dream, offering a buffet of savoury and sweet treats that cater to every palate. Whether you're a fan of sausages and Flammkuchen or have a sweet tooth for Lebkuchen and marzipan, these 20 family-friendly foods will make your visit to a German Christmas market a deliciously memorable experience. So, bundle up, explore the stalls, and treat your taste buds to the rich flavors of the holiday season. It's a yummy adventure waiting to happen!
