German Christmas Food Recipes You Can Easily Try!

Ready to explore German Christmas food recipes for your holiday spread? German cuisine offers a wide range of festive dishes that are perfect for Christmas celebrations. From hearty appetizers and main courses to delectable desserts, I’ve put together a list of the best German Christmas food recipes for you to try this holiday season!

Sweet and Sour Cabbage

Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Bacon would be a standout item on a German Christmas table because it blends traditional German flavors like smoky bacon and tangy sauerkraut, which are beloved during the festive season. This dish offers a hearty, comforting complement to the rich meats and desserts typically served during German holiday feasts.

Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Bacon

This Sweet and Sour Cabbage recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys robust, tangy flavors. It’s simple to prepare and serves as the perfect side to richer main dishes. Why not introduce this delightful dish at your next family dinner or gather friends for a cozy, casual meal? It’s sure to bring smiles and satisfy any palate, especially on those chilly evenings!

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German Celeriac Salad with Walnuts

This German Celeriac Salad with Walnuts is the perfect mix of crunchy, creamy, and tangy. It’s a healthy, flavorful salad that works great as a side dish or a light meal.

German Celeriac Salad with Walnuts

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Cheese Spätzle

Let’s kick off this list with a cheesy start by diving into this German twist on mac n’ cheese! It’s creamy and comforting, and makes a perfect appetizer for your holiday menu. I swear, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all the time!

Cheese Spaetzle Recipe (German Käsespätzle)

Cheese Spaetzle (Käsespätzle) is the German version of Mac and Cheese! Made with homemade German egg noodles and lots of Emmental cheese.

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German Hamburgers (Frikadellen)

I’m a big fan of this German take on the classic hamburger! The tasty flattened meatball is full of flavor, and it pairs perfectly with a side of fresh veggies – which is something I absolutely like! It’s a versatile dish that can be served with salad or tucked into a roll.

German Hamburgers (Frikadellen)

This frikadellen recipe with ground pork and beef, onion, parsley, egg, and hot paprika makes a batch of delicious pan-fried German meat patties.

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German Ham and Noodle (Schinkennudeln)

I’m in love with this pasta dish! Everyone loves a good pasta, and this Schinkennudeln is sure to be a hit with its simple yet delicious combination of ham and noodles. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any meal.

Schinkennudeln (German Fried Pasta with Ham and Egg)

Schinkennudeln is a classic German fried pasta with egg and ham dish. Learn how to make this quick and easy recipe.

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Bread Knödel

These savory German bread dumplings are tender and flavorful, made with bits of bacon for a hearty side dish. Perfect alongside roasts or stews, they’re a filling and delicious addition to any meal.

Bread Knödel

‘Knödel’ are German Bread and Bacon Dumplings. They are tender, savory, and incredibly delicious and make a perfect and filling side dish.

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Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels

These buttery, golden soft pretzels are chewy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. A classic German treat, they’re perfect as a snack or paired with mustard or cheese dip.

Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels

Make your own buttery soft pretzels at home with just five simple ingredients. They’re delicious, soft and fluffy inside, with a chewy, golden crust.

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German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potato pancakes are a simple yet delicious dish. Serve them with applesauce for a sweet touch or sour cream for a savory twist.

German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

These irresistible German Potato Pancakes are perfect when you’re craving a crispy potato dish with a fluffy inside that is also simple to make! Kartoffelpuffer are golden brown, deliciously fried potato fritters for any time of the day made with only a couple of staple pantry ingredients. This traditional dish can be served with applesauce or sour cream.

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Sweet and Sour German Red Cabbage

I’m already a fan of anything sweet and sour, and wow, this red cabbage recipe is incredible! The flavor is spot on, and that vibrant color makes it perfect for Christmas. It’s a delicious side dish that adds a festive touch to any meal.

You’re Going to Love This Sweet and Sour Side Dish

This 4-ingredient sweet and sour red cabbage makes an easy side dish for any meal in just 30 minutes. The whole family will love it with sausages or pork chops, but it works well with tons of your favorite main dishes.

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Roast Duck with Oranges

This slow-roasted duck is stuffed with garlic, thyme, and shallots, yielding a juicy and flavorful dish. The addition of oranges brings a zesty brightness, making it a stunning holiday main course.

Roast Duck with Oranges

A slow, oven-roasted duck is a great alternative to the traditional turkey for your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. You’ll love this simple roasted duck recipe, stuffed with garlic, thyme and shallots yields a flavorful and juicy bird!

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White Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise sauce is something else—it pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of white asparagus. The creamy, rich sauce really elevates the vegetable, making it an absolute must-try when asparagus is in season. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that never disappoints.

White Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

White asparagus with hollandaise sauce is a German dish that is enjoyed by everyone while it’s in season as it’s super tasty and easy to make!

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German Cabbage Roll

Another cabbage recipe (they’re definitely one of my faves!)—this cabbage roll is the perfect healthy addition to your Christmas menu. The savory braised cabbage with bacon bits wrapped in crunchy filo dough is incredibly satisfying. Paired with a simple horseradish-dill sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

German Cabbage Roll (Krautstrudel)

German Cabbage Roll also called Krautstrudel is a filo dough rolled up around braised cabbage and bacon bits, served with a simple horseradish-dill sauce!

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German Sauerbraten Recipe

Let’s move on to the part we’ve all been waiting for—the main dishes, starting with this absolutely delicious German roast beef! The rich marinade of red wine, vinegar, herbs, and warm spices makes this roast incredibly flavorful. Braised to perfection, it’s a mouthwatering addition to your Christmas table.

Authentic German Sauerbraten Recipe

This authentic German Sauerbraten recipe makes the most tender and juicy roast beef and a wonderful sweet and sour gravy. The meat is succulent and tender—it’s so irresistible!

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Bavarian Pot Roast

I will never forget this classic Bavarian pot roast! The beef is unbelievably tender and full of comforting flavors that are perfect for any occasion – especially winter holidays!  It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel right at home with every bite.

Bavarian Pot Roast

Since all my grandparents were German, it’s no wonder that so many Bavarian recipes have been handed down to me. Because the Midwest has such a large German population, I feel this recipe represents the area well. —Susan Robertson, Hamilton, Ohio

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Classic German Goulash

For me, this is one of the most filling dishes ever! Just look at that tender meat simmered with tomatoes and spices. It’s the kind of food that really makes you feel that you devoured your food – it’s so good! 

Classic German Goulash

Classic German goulash recipe: beef, beef broth, onions, tomato paste, sweet paprika and other spices. This recipe does not use any thickeners and is naturally thick.

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German Beef Rouladen (Rinderrouladen)

This German beef rouladen looks so incredibly yummy! I love how it pairs perfectly with dishes like cheese spätzle and red cabbage, making it a great choice on any dinner table. I think another pro of this recipe is how easily you can make and prepare it! 

German Beef Rouladen (Rinderrouladen)

Beef Rouladen is a comforting German rolled meat dish made from thin beef filled with mustard, bacon, onions, and pickles.

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The Best Juicy Air Fryer Bratwursts

Air fryer bratwursts are golden brown and juicy, ready in just 15 minutes. Serve them with sauerkraut for a quick and delicious German-inspired meal.

The Best Juicy Air Fryer Bratwursts

Making air fryer brats is a great way to get juicy bratwurst golden brown without using a hot grill. This delicious dinner can be ready in about 15 minutes and can be served with a bit of sauerkraut for a classic meal that tastes great any time of the year.

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Traditional German Roast Goose

This traditional roast goose is a must-try for anyone looking to get into authentic German cuisine! The golden and succulent meat paired with tasty gravy makes it a showstopper at any table. This goose recipe is absolutely heavenly and deserves a spot on your holiday menu!

Traditional German Roast Goose

My recipe for perfect every time roast goose ensures beautifully bronzed and crispy skin and juicy, succulent meat.

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German Braised Red Cabbage (Blaukraut)

This braised red cabbage is flavored with apples, cloves, and juniper berries for a sweet and tangy side dish. It’s a traditional accompaniment to roast meats and a staple on festive tables in Germany.

German Braised Red Cabbage (Blaukraut)

No festive table in Germany would be without a big pot of braised red cabbage, flavoured with apple, cloves and juniper berries. Depending on where in the country you are, this could be called Rotkohl or Blaukraut and it is the perfect accompaniment to roast goose.

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Homemade Potato Dumplings (Kartoffelknödel) Recipe

These tender potato dumplings are a traditional German side dish, perfect for soaking up rich sauces. Their versatility allows for endless variations, making them a beloved classic.

Homemade Potato Dumplings (Kartoffelknödel) Recipe

Potato dumplings (Kartoffelknödel) are a traditional side dish in Germany, but this is just one type of dumpling. There are endless variations of this potato dumpling recipe.

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Sour Cream and Onion Potato Salad (No Mayo)

This creamy potato salad is made with sour cream and Greek yogurt, offering a tangy and oniony twist. A refreshing alternative to traditional mayo-based salads, it’s ideal for holiday meals.

Sour Cream and Onion Potato Salad {No Mayo}

This Sour Cream and Onion Potato Salad is for all the chip lovers out there (myself included). Tender gold baby potatoes covered in a creamy, tangy, oniony, mixture made with sour cream and greek yogurt that’s perfectly reminiscent of the crunchy potato chip.

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Mulled Wine

This warm, spiced drink combines red wine, brandy, and aromatic mulling spices for a cozy holiday treat. A staple at German Christmas markets, it’s guaranteed to bring festive cheer.

Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine is a traditional holiday drink made with red wine, brandy, and mulling spices like cloves, star anise, and cinnamon. It’s delicious, cozy, and guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

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Speculoos Cookies Recipe (Speculaas)

These spiced cookies are crisp and buttery, with caramel and brown sugar flavors that make them irresistible. A holiday classic, they’re perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.

Speculoos Cookies Recipe (Speculaas)

Speculoos cookies, also known as Belgian Speculaas, are crisp roll out cookies made with spices, caramel, butter, and brown sugar to name a few of the flavors that make these cookies so wonderful. If you’ve had Biscoff cookies, you’ve already had speculoos cookies (just a different name).

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Chocolate Marzipan Cherries

These chocolate-dipped marzipan cherries are luxurious, festive treats that are easy to make. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a holiday indulgence, they’re gluten-free and customizable.

Chocolate Marzipan Cherries

Delicious homemade Chocolate Marzipan Cherries. Perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s, Easter, gifting or ‘just because’… Gluten Free. Dairy Free. Optional Nut Free.

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Enchanted Black Forest Cupcakes

These rich chocolate cupcakes are paired with cherry pie filling for a decadent, festive dessert. A modern twist on the classic Black Forest cake, they’re perfect for chocolate lovers.

Enchanted Black Forest Cupcakes

These cupcakes are little bites of delight! They feel luxurious on the palate because of the rich dark chocolate and high-quality cocoa. I paired it with cherry pie filling that skyrocketed the earthy flavors and made them a delicacy. Check out the recipe for my secret ingredient that makes chocolate cake bloom!

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German Cinnamon Star Cookies (Zimtsterne)

Let’s talk about desserts, my favorite part of any cuisine! These cinnamon star cookies are a festive treat that’s perfect for Christmas. Their almond base and warm spices make them an irresistible treat on any holiday cookie plate!

Zimmerstern (German Cinnamon Star Cookies)

Zimmerstern (German Cinnamon Star Cookies) (or Zimtsterne) are delicious Christmas cookies! A gluten free recipe made with almonds, lemon, cinnamon, powdered sugar, and egg whites.

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German Christmas Bread (Stollen)

Of course, I couldn’t leave out this classic German Christmas bread! This stollen is a beloved holiday treat, packed with homemade candied orange peel and marzipan, making it flaky, moist, and full of flavor – so yummy too! It’s truly an unforgettable addition to any Christmas menu!

Authentic Stollen (German Christmas Bread)

One of the most famous of all Christmas pastries, German Stollen are prized throughout the world. This authentic Stollen recipe is the BEST!

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Hazelnut Macaroons (Nussmakronen)

Macaroons are already one of my personal favorites, so when they’re chewy, Christmas-themed, and packed with hazelnuts, I’m all in! These sweet treats are a perfect holiday dessert. I can’t wait to add these hazelnut macaroons to my holiday lineup, especially since it only requires four ingredients!

Chewy German Hazelnut Macaroons – Nussmakronen

These chewy and sweet hazelnut macaroons, or Nussmakronen, are typical German Christmas cookies made with only 4 ingredients.

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Linzer Torte

Wow, this torte looks absolutely stunning and so tempting! Its buttery and nutty shortcrust filled with jam and topped with a beautiful lattice pattern is sure to make your table look extra festive. I can already imagine how amazing it will be as the centerpiece of your holiday spread!

Linzer Torte

Austrian linzer torte, is a shortcrust torte filled with jam, traditionally topped with a lattice pattern, and is the perfect holiday treat!

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Vegan German Nut Corners (Nussecken)

If you’re on the hunt for a vegan-friendly German dessert, this one is a must-try! It features a delightful shortbread base topped with apricot jam, rich hazelnut caramel, and a touch of chocolate. These nut corners are absolutely irresistible and perfect for any holiday treat!

Vegan Nussecken (German Nut Corners)

Vegan Nussecken – this vegan version of the classic German treat are easy to make and perfect for Christmas.

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Classic German Crumb Cake (Streuselkuchen)

Last but definitely not least is this classic German crumb cake, a perfect choice for a cozy Christmas dessert. With its sweet and buttery streusel topping over a classic yeast dough, it’s the kind of treat that’s hard to resist! I love how simple yet delicious this cake is—it’s ideal for sharing with loved ones during holiday season.

Streuselkuchen (Classic German Crumb Cake)

Want to make a classic Streuselkuchen? This easy to make German crumb cake has a look, texture, and a flavor that everyone simply loves!

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Lebkuchen

These classic German Christmas cookies are soft, spiced, and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. They’re a holiday favorite, bringing warm, festive flavors to your dessert table.

Lebkuchen

This simple recipe for Lebkuchen will help you make these classic and traditional German Christmas cookies! They are soft, cake-like cookies full of warm spices and molasses and covered in a bright lemon glaze.

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Gingerbread Squares with Plum Jam and Chocolate

Layered with sweet plum jam and finished with a glossy chocolate glaze, these gingerbread squares are soft and decadent. A perfect treat for those who love moist, richly flavored desserts.

Gingerbread squares with plum jam and chocolate

Gingerbread squares layered with plum jam and covered in chocolate glaze. They are soft, moist and just heavenly. I think it’s my favorite gingerbread dessert.

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Thank you so much to the original creators of these recipes!