From savory classics to sweet treats, here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and drinks you’ll find at German Christmas markets.
Imagine twinkling lights, festive melodies, and the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling sausages and spiced wine – that's the magic of a German Christmas market. But the true stars of the show? The traditional treats that make these markets so unforgettable. Get ready to discover the unique culinary treasures and must-try experiences that await you on your next visit!
Savory Sandwiches + Dishes
Bratwurst (Sausages)
No visit to a German Christmas market is complete without enhjoying a sizzling bratwurst. These juicy sausages, grilled to perfection, are a classic German treat. Enjoy them nestled in a warm roll and topped with tangy sauerkraut and your choice of mustard or ketchup. It's a quick and affordable bite that will warm you up as you explore the festive market.
Beyond the traditional bratwurst, you'll find a variety of delicious sausages. Spicier options will tantalize your taste buds, while the delicate Weißwurst, a Bavarian specialty, offers a unique flavor profile. This pale sausage, often enjoyed for breakfast, is typically paired with a pretzel for an authentic Bavarian experience.
Currywurst (Curry Sausage)
Elevate your bratwurst experience with Currywurst. This iconic German street food features grilled sausage sliced and generously coated in a tangy tomato-based curry sauce. The sweet and savory combination is simply irresistible. For the ultimate indulgence, pair it with a side of crispy fries.
Nürnberger Rostbratwürste (Nuremberg Roast Sausages)
If you find yourself in Nuremberg, don't miss the chance to savor the legendary "Nuremberg Rostbratwürste." This local specialty features three miniature grilled sausages nestled in a crusty roll. A touch of mustard enhances the smoky flavor of these bite-sized delights, making them a perfect and easily portable market snack.
Flammlachs in der Semmel (Salmon Sandwich)
A true showstopper, Flammlachs offers a unique and flavorful experience. Fresh salmon fillets are expertly grilled over an open fire on cedar slabs, imparting a smoky aroma and flavor. The result? Flaky, succulent fish served in a crusty roll with a creamy dill sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser you won't want to miss.
Ochsensemme (Ox Roll)
For a heartier option, seek out the Ochsensemmel. This flavorful sandwich features tender, slow-cooked ox meat served on a soft roll. Often accompanied by a drizzle of rich gravy or a touch of horseradish sauce, it's a satisfying and flavorful treat. You can find this delicacy at Munich's Christmas markets, such as the Chinese Tower Market and the Tollwood Christmas Market.
Fleischküchla (Meatball Sandwich)
Fleischküchle is a classic Bavarian dish featuring a savory meatball served in a soft roll. Enhance the flavor with a touch of mustard or onions for an authentic German experience. It's a satisfying and flavorful bite, reminiscent of a hearty hamburger.
Spaetzle (Egg Noodles)
Warm up on a chilly market night with a bowl of Spaetzle. These German egg noodles are a comforting and satisfying dish, similar to mac and cheese. Topped with melted cheese and crispy onions, they make a delicious and filling snack. You'll find Spaetzle at many Christmas markets, making them a popular choice for a warm and satisfying meal.
Sweet Treats
Pretzels
Soft, chewy pretzels are a quintessential Christmas market snack. Whether you prefer them plain or topped with butter, or sprinkled with coarse salt, they're a satisfying treat to enjoy while exploring the festive stalls. You'll likely encounter a pretzel vendor at any Christmas market, and you might be surprised by the variety beyond the classic salted pretzel. We tried a poppyseed pretzel, and it was an unexpected and tasty treat!
Strudel
No Christmas market visit is complete without indulging in a slice of warm, flaky strudel. Filled with spiced apples, cherries, or poppy seeds, this classic dessert pairs perfectly with a hot drink on a frosty evening. We personally enjoyed a delicious Lebkuchen (gingerbread) strudel, a unique and flavorful twist on this timeless treat.
Kaiserschmarren (Austrian Torn Pancakes)
This Austrian specialty is a must-try at any Christmas market. This fluffy pancake is torn into bite-sized pieces and generously dusted with powdered sugar. Typically served with a side of sweet apple compote or plum sauce, Kaiserschmarren is a sweet indulgence that will warm you from the inside out. We had the pleasure of savoring Kaiserschmarren with blueberries and a vanilla sauce at the Salzburg Christmas Market, and it quickly became a personal favorite.
Mandeln (Candied Almonds)
The aroma of roasted almonds is one of the first things you’ll notice at a Christmas market. These sweet, crunchy treats are coated in a caramelized sugar glaze and make the perfect snack or gift to take home. It is almost impossible to walk past a stall selling these sweet smelling nuts and not buy a cone full.
Chimney Cakes (Kürtőskalács):
A must-try at many German Christmas markets, chimney cakes are a truly unique and visually stunning treat. These cylindrical pastries are made from sweet yeast dough that is rolled around a wooden stick and then grilled over an open fire, creating a hollow, chimney-like shape. As the dough cooks, it's continuously rolled to ensure even baking.
Once cooked, chimney cakes are often coated in a sweet glaze, sprinkled with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts, and sometimes even filled with delicious ingredients like Nutella, whipped cream, or even cheese. They are a satisfying sweet treat that perfectly complements the festive atmosphere of a German Christmas market.
Schneeballen (Snowballs)
Schneeballen, or snowballs, are treats that involve dough cut into strips, formed into a ball and fried then covered in toppings. These toppings could be anything from chocolate to marzipan to nuts. However, be warned. Schneeballen may look exciting and delicious. But they taste super flavourless and are very dry in texture. I wouldn’t recommend it (unless your curiosity really gets the better of you).
Elisenlebkuchen (Soft Cookies)
If you want to try some of the best lebkuchen in the whole country, I’d highly recommend heading to the Bavarian city of Nuremberg. Here, you’ll find elisenlebkuchen, which are a flourless variation of lebkuchen. Instead of flour, ground nuts and almond paste are used to provide a wonderful texture to the cookie. They are moist, chewy and absolutely delicious!
Festive Drinks
Glühwein (Mulled Wine)
Glühwein is the quintessential Christmas market beverage. This warm, spiced red wine is served in festive mugs that you can often keep as a souvenir. It’s the perfect way to stay warm while exploring the market.
Kinderpunsch (Alcohol-Free Mulled Punch)
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Kinderpunsch is a festive alternative. Made with spiced fruit juices, this hot drink is just as festive and warming as its wine counterpart.
Feuerzangenbowle (Fire-Tongs Punch)
For a truly unique experience, try Feuerzangenbowle. This dramatic drink begins with a glass of Glühwein. A sugar cube soaked in rum is then placed atop the glass and set ablaze, creating a spectacular display. The melted sugar infuses the Glühwein with a sweet and smoky flavor. The Medieval Market in Munich serves Feuerzangenbowle in distinctive clay goblets, often with a hefty deposit required. However, this deposit is fully refundable upon returning the goblet, or you can choose to keep it as a souvenir.
Final Thoughts
German Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, with food playing a central role in the festive experience. From hearty ox sandwiches and warm strudel to steaming cups of Glühwein, the culinary offerings of these markets are sure to be memorable.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
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