A taste of Germany - 10 traditional foods you must try!

Germany is known for its hearty, homemade savoury dishes and its traditional, simple, yet decadent cakes. These recipes, with their deliciously rich flavours, reflect the heart and soul of its people.

Nations all around the world have taken these iconic German creations into their countries, although many have changed and varied them to their taste.

On this list, the food and dishes are all truly traditional and very German!

First on the list is a very delicious and sweet treat that, if made from scratch, takes hours to make but is all worth it!

10. Lebkuchen (Gingerbread)

Lebkuchen is a traditional German gingerbread that has been enjoyed for centuries, especially during the cosy season of winter.

It’s a beloved treat, often flavoured with a variety of warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and allspice, giving it a rich and aromatic taste.

9. Käsespätzle (Little sparrows with cheese)

This Swabian speciality is a type of egg noodles or dumplings, layered with melted cheese and topped with caramelized onions, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes just as good as it sounds!

Being soft and slightly chewy, they are loved by so many and are a perfect dish if you like both noodles and cheese.

The next one is an iconic and quite original treat on the list:

8. Baumkuchen (Tree cake)

Known as the "King of cakes" this interesting winter cake is made by baking thin layers of batter on a rotating spit, creating rings that resemble tree growth rings when sliced.

Be it coated with dark or milk chocolate, this delicious cake doesn’t just enchant with its looks, but with its wonderful taste as well.

7. Bretzeln (Pretzels)

These soft, twisted treats are made of a specific bread dough, usually sprinkled with coarse salt on top.

That makes them soft and chewy on the inside, with a slightly crisp and salty crust.

Pretzels are a popular snack or side dish, especially in Bavarian and Swabian cuisine.

The next recipe is a must-have for any authentic German afternoon coffee time:

6. Streuselkuchen (Crumb cake)

This beloved German cake features a yeasted dough base, filled with a creamy vanilla custard and topped with a sweet, buttery crumb topping.

It’s often flavoured with cinnamon and served with coffee or tea.

Variations may include fruits, such as apples or plums, but without them, it is a simple and delicious version too.

5. Bauernbrot (Farmer's Bread)

If a country is famous for its bread, then it surely is Germany.

With its simple and rustic, yet hearty bread made from a mix of rye and wheat flour, often with a thick, crunchy crust, the country has earned the title "Land of bread".

It's a staple in German households and is perfect for making sandwiches or enjoying it with butter, cheese, or cold cuts.

4. Marmorkuchen (Marble cake)

That is a timeless classic in German baking.

Marmorkuchen is loved for its beautiful marbled appearance and moist, fluffy crumb.

Simply made by swirling light vanilla batter with a rich cocoa batter, this cake creates an original pattern that looks like marble stone when sliced.

It is often dusted with powdered sugar, or coated with a sweet chocolate glaze, making it a simple, yet delicious treat perfect for any occasion.

You’ve made it to the top three!

Many have surely heard of the following dish, for it is a truly traditional recipe passed down from generation to generation:

3. Kartoffelpuffer (Potato pancakes)

These are crispy pancakes made from grated potatoes mixed with a few basic ingredients, shaped into flat patties, and fried until golden and crispy.

Kartoffelpuffer are enjoyed in both a sweet variation served with applesauce, and a savoury version with sour cream.

That makes them a versatile dish.

2. Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black forest cake)

That is one of Germany’s most famous cakes, which originates from the Black Forest region (Schwarzwald) in southwest Germany.

It is made with layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, and finally decorated with chocolate shavings.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte is quite a heavy cake perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings.

And the first place goes to...

1. Kartoffelsalat (Potato salad)

A traditional, famous and well-known dish!

It is made with boiled potatoes, often mixed with a tangy dressing made from mustard, vinegar, and oil.

Widely depending on the region and personal preference, other variations exist, such as a creamy version with mayonnaise and pickles.

The dish can be served warm or cold, and its flavour profile changes based on the dressing used.

Altogether, Kartoffelsalat is a very tasty dish and a perfect addition to any menu.

What recipe is your favourite one? Or do you like a dish that I forgot to include in this list?

Those were ten traditional and very typical German recipes that not only Germans love and enjoy, but that have found their places in so many people’s hearts and stomachs.

Thank you for reading!