German Christmas Food Recipes You Can Easily Try!

I don’t know if it’s just me, but Christmas always gives me the urge to explore new cuisines and experiment with festive menus. German cuisine is definitely worth diving into—they’ve got a range of dishes that your taste buds will absolutely love! 

So, I’ve put together a list of the best German Christmas food recipes to try this holiday season. From appetizers to main dishes and desserts, I’ve covered it all. I’m excited to share these with you!

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