German food and drink are legendary throughout the world. From sausages and sauerkraut to wiener schnitzel and beer, Germany is a mecca for foodies. While few experiences top a meal in an authentic German restaurant, don’t be so quick to overlook what Germany has to offer in the way of sweets. Sure, German chocolate is on everyone’s radar, but Germany is so much more than just chocolate! Let’s explore Germany’s other sweet treats.
Lebkuchen (German Christmas Cookies)
Germany is well-known for its holiday celebrations, and no German Christmas would be complete without lebkuchen. Arguably the most popular Christmas cookie in Germany, lebkuchen, also known as pfefferkuchen, actually dates back to ancient Egypt, but modern versions come from the German city of Nuremberg. It is a German version of a gingerbread cookie made with molasses or honey and full of warm spices. Often, it is cut into a heart shape and dusted with powdered sugar or covered in a sweet glaze. This cookie is so popular in Germany that there is even a professional lebkuchen baking group known as The Lebkuchner Guild. Lebkuchen is a must-try German sweet treat!
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)
I know you’ve probably had a piece of something called Black Forest Cake in the States but, believe me when I say, there is nothing like the real thing straight from the source. While both the American and German versions of the cakes are mechanically the same, layers of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream, the German version not only contains authentic, German chocolate, but also is soaked in Kirsch liqueur…and lots of it. If you like a boozy cake, seek out a piece of this German delight. Word of warning: Find a friend to share it with. It’s rich!
Zwetchenkuchen (Plum Cake)
Zwetchenkuchen, also called pflaumenkuchen, is a popular fresh plum cake served all over Germany, but especially during plum season. Even if you are not a plum-lover, give this one a try. You might be surprised by how much you like this German household staple. Plop on a dollop of whipped cream and dig in but be sure to order a coffee to go with it. Kaffee and kuchen (coffee and cake) go together like sausage and cabbage. For an extra, special treat, grab an eiskaffee, or German iced coffee. Coffee over ice cream is a decadent delight!
Rote Grütze (Red Berry “Pudding”)
If you love berries, you’ll adore this northern Germany traditional “pudding.” Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and red currants made into a pudding-like consistency, then topped with whipped cream, vanilla sauce, fresh cold cream, or ice cream. It’s a lighter option for sweet-treat lovers.
No matter which German sweet treat you choose, you are sure to be amazed. From cakes to pastries, cookies to sweet drinks, the Germans have mastered the art of dessert.
Pro Tip: When you find one you love, grab an extra to go for a before-bed indulgence. You won’t be sorry!
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