Feuerzangenbowle is a traditional German alcoholic drink for which a rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and drips into mulled wine. It is often part of a Christmas or New Year's Eve tradition. The name translates literally to "fire-tongs punch". Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) is quite popular during the winter months in Germany. But if you are … [Read more...]
Marzipan Potatoes – Marzipankartoffeln
Marzipankartoffeln are baby potatoes made from marzipan and are traditionally given to friends in little bags or placed on the goodie plate at Christmastime. These traditional German Christmas treats are quick and easy to make and irresistible! Ingredients: 2 cups ground almonds 2 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar 1 teaspoon rose water * 1 large … [Read more...]
How to Cook Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are traditionally made in Germany for Christmas. Cook them anytime, and let some Christmas into the house right now! Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: 30 min Here's How: Heat 3/4 cup honey, 3/8 cup sugar and 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan until smooth. Stir in ginger, … [Read more...]
Strawberry Santas
Ingredients: *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 1 lb large strawberries 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 3-4 Tablespoons powdered sugar (or sugar substitute - to taste) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract sesame seeds Cooking: *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Rinse strawberries and cut around the top of the … [Read more...]
Pfeffernüsse – German Christmas Spice Cookies
Pfeffernüsse are tiny spice cookies, popular as a holiday treat in Germany around Christmas. These cookies with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a hit of black pepper are ideal for the holiday season. Ingredients: 1/2 cup molasses 1/4 cup honey 1/2 cup unsalted butter 4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup white sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons … [Read more...]
Vanillekipferl – Vanilla Crescents
Among all the beloved Christmas biscuits of German-speaking Europe, few inspire as much nostalgia and affection as Vanillekipferl, also known in English as Vanilla Crescents. These delicate, crescent-shaped cookies are instantly recognizable: perfectly crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and coated generously in a fragrant vanilla sugar dusting. … [Read more...]
Zimtsterne – Cinnamon Stars
Among all the irresistible Christmas cookies baked across Germany during Advent, few are as iconic, aromatic, and unmistakably festive as Zimtsterne - the beautifully shaped German Cinnamon Stars. With their snowy white icing, deep almond flavor, and warm notes of cinnamon, these star-shaped cookies capture the magic of the holiday season in a … [Read more...]
Christmas traditions in Germany
Christmas (Weihnachten) is considered to be the most important of the major holidays in Germany. Not only the holiday itself, but also the weeks leading up to the celebration of Christmas involve many traditions and customs. Christmas preparations in Germany begin from 1st of December as people bake spiced cakes, gingerbread houses and cookies, … [Read more...]
Glühwein
Glühwein is enjoyed at traditional Christmas Markets and is also known as an after-ski drink. Watch it: since you drink this wine warm, the alcohol goes to your head extra quick! Here's How: Place 1/2 cup water in a large saucepan with a piece of cinnamon, ginger, orange zest, 8 cloves, and 3/8 cup sugar. Bring to a boil and simmer … [Read more...]
Three Kings’ Cake
Three King's Cake (or bread) is closely allied with the traditions around the Epiphany (January 6th). This date commemorates the visit the Three Wise Men made to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Ingredients: Dough 3/4 cup light raisins 3/4 cup chopped dates 1 1/3 cups chopped walnuts 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots 1/2 cup chopped candied … [Read more...]