Discover the Best Food at German Christmas Markets

Nothing quite captures the spirit of Christmas like a traditional German Christmas market! With twinkling lights, festive music, and a warm atmosphere, these markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season. But perhaps the best part of these markets is the food. From savory sausages to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best food at German Christmas markets and give you all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

The Top 15 Must-Try Foods at German Christmas Markets

🍴 1. Currywurst – A delicious sausage dish smothered in curry ketchup and served with fries.

🍴 2. Lebkuchen – A spicy gingerbread cookie that’s a staple of German Christmas markets.

🍴 3. Glühwein – A hot mulled wine that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.

🍴 4. Bratwurst – A classic German sausage that’s grilled to perfection and served with mustard.

🍴 5. Kartoffelpuffer – A crispy potato pancake that’s often served with applesauce.

🍴 6. Stollen – A sweet bread filled with dried fruit and marzipan.

🍴 7. Flammkuchen – A thin-crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.

🍴 8. Gebrannte Mandeln – Sugar-coated almonds that make for a delicious snack.

🍴 9. Rostbratwurst – A grilled sausage that’s coated in a delicious herb and spice mix.

🍴 10. Schupfnudeln – A type of potato dumpling that’s often served with sauerkraut.

🍴 11. Reibekuchen – Another type of potato pancake that’s often served with apple sauce.

🍴 12. Maroni – Roasted chestnuts that are perfect for snacking on while you wander the market.

🍴 13. Apfelstrudel – A sweet pastry filled with warm, spiced apples.

🍴 14. Nürnberger Lebkuchen – A type of gingerbread that’s a specialty of Nuremberg.

🍴 15. Spekulatius – A type of spiced biscuit that’s perfect for dipping in hot drinks.

Introduction

Christmas is a time for traditions, and few traditions are as beloved as the German Christmas market. These markets have been a fixture of the holiday season in Germany for centuries, and they continue to draw visitors from all over the world. But while the festive atmosphere and twinkling lights are a big part of the appeal, there’s another reason why so many people flock to these markets each year – the food. From savory sausages to sweet treats, German Christmas markets are a paradise for foodies.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best food at German Christmas markets. We’ll explore the history behind each dish, give you tips on where to find the best versions of each dish, and offer suggestions on how to pair each dish with the perfect drink. Whether you’re planning a trip to a German Christmas market or just want to bring a taste of Germany to your own holiday celebrations, this article is for you.

What is a German Christmas Market?

German Christmas markets, also known as Christkindlmarkts or Weihnachtsmarkts, are outdoor markets that are held in the weeks leading up to Christmas. They originated in Germany in the Late Middle Ages, and over time they spread to other parts of Europe. Today, Christmas markets can be found in cities and towns throughout Germany, as well as in other countries around the world.

The markets are typically set up in town squares or other public areas, and they feature rows of wooden stalls decorated with lights and festive decorations. The stalls sell a variety of goods, including crafts, ornaments, and of course, food. The markets are often accompanied by live music or other entertainment, and they create a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

Why is the Food at German Christmas Markets so Special?

German Christmas markets are known for their delicious food, and for good reason. Many of the dishes that are served at these markets have been passed down from generation to generation, and they’re made using traditional recipes and techniques. This gives the food a unique flavor and character that’s hard to find anywhere else.

In addition to the taste, the food at German Christmas markets is also special because of the way it’s served. Many of the dishes are cooked right in front of you, giving you a chance to see the process and smell the delicious aromas. The food is also served on traditional dishes or in paper cones, which adds to the overall experience.

The Best Food at German Christmas Markets

Now that you know a little more about German Christmas markets and why the food is so special, let’s take a closer look at the top dishes you need to try.

1. Currywurst

Currywurst is a popular street food in Germany, and it’s a staple of German Christmas markets. The dish consists of a grilled or fried sausage that’s smothered in curry ketchup and served with fries. It’s the perfect combination of savory and sweet, and it’s sure to warm you up on a chilly evening.

Where to Find the Best Currywurst

Currywurst is popular throughout Germany, but some of the best versions can be found at Christmas markets in Berlin. Look for stalls that use high-quality sausages and homemade curry ketchup for the best flavor.

What to Drink with Currywurst

Currywurst pairs perfectly with a cold beer. Look for a local German brew to complete the experience.

2. Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen is a type of spicy gingerbread that’s a staple of German Christmas markets. The cookies are often shaped like hearts or stars and decorated with icing or sprinkles. They’re the perfect treat to snack on while you wander the markets, and they also make great gifts.

Where to Find the Best Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen is sold at almost every German Christmas market, but some of the best versions can be found in Nuremberg. The city is known for its Nürnberger Lebkuchen, which is made using a special recipe that dates back to the 14th century.

What to Drink with Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen pairs well with a hot cup of Glühwein. The warm mulled wine brings out the spice flavors in the gingerbread.

3. Glühwein

Glühwein is a hot mulled wine that’s a staple of German Christmas markets. The wine is typically spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and other warm spices, and it’s served hot in mugs. It’s the perfect drink to warm you up on a chilly evening.

Where to Find the Best Glühwein

Glühwein is sold at almost every German Christmas market, but some of the best versions can be found at markets in Munich and Frankfurt. Look for stalls that use high-quality wine and fresh spices for the best flavor.

What to Eat with Glühwein

Glühwein pairs well with savory dishes like Bratwurst or Kartoffelpuffer. The wine’s warm spices complement the savory flavors of the dishes.

4. Bratwurst

Bratwurst is a classic German sausage that’s grilled to perfection and served with mustard. It’s a staple of German cuisine, and it’s a must-try dish at any German Christmas market.

Where to Find the Best Bratwurst

Bratwurst is sold at almost every German Christmas market, but some of the best versions can be found in Nuremberg. The city is known for its Nürnberger Bratwurst, which is made using a special recipe that dates back to the 14th century.

What to Drink with Bratwurst

Bratwurst pairs well with a cold beer. Look for a local German brew to complete the experience.

5. Kartoffelpuffer

Kartoffelpuffer is a crispy potato pancake that’s often served with applesauce. It’s a classic German dish that’s perfect for snacking on while you wander the markets.

Where to Find the Best Kartoffelpuffer

Kartoffelpuffer is sold at almost every German Christmas market, but some of the best versions can be found in Berlin. Look for stalls that use high-quality potatoes and fry the pancakes to a