German Easter Recipes: Traditional Dishes for a Festive Ostern

Easter (Ostern) in Germany is not just about egg hunts and bonfires—it’s also a time for delicious, traditional meals that bring families together. From sweet Easter lamb cakes (Osterlamm) to hearty Festtagsbraten (holiday roasts), German Easter cuisine is a delightful mix of regional specialties and time-honored dishes. In this section, discover the best German Easter recipes, learn about their cultural significance, and get inspired to bring authentic German flavors to your own holiday table.

Explore classic Easter baked goods, such as Osterbrot (Easter Bread), find out why Germans eat green foods on Maundy Thursday (Gründonnerstag), and try your hand at making a traditional Easter lamb cake. Whether you’re looking for savory holiday roasts or sweet Easter desserts, you’ll find plenty of authentic recipes to celebrate Easter the German way.

What You’ll Find in This Category:

• Traditional German Easter breads and pastries (Osterbrot, Hefezopf, Osterlamm)
• Hearty Easter roasts and festive meals (Festtagsbraten, Lammkeule, Fischgerichte)
• Green Thursday specialties (Gründonnerstag soups, herb-packed dishes)
• Easy-to-make German Easter treats for the whole family
• Step-by-step guides to classic recipes with cultural insights

Featured German Easter Recipes

Osterzopf (German Easter Braided Bread) – A golden, soft, slightly sweet yeast bread, traditionally braided and sprinkled with almonds and sugar. Perfect for Easter breakfast!

Osterkranz (Easter Wreath Bread) – A beautifully shaped braided bread wreath featuring dyed Easter eggs, symbolizing renewal and celebration.

Hefezopf (Sweet Yeast Braid) – Similar to Osterzopf, this fluffy bread is often enriched with raisins or marzipan for a delightful twist on the classic Easter bake.

Osterlamm (German Easter Lamb Cake) – A light, sponge lamb, symbolizing Christ and Easter traditions. Often dusted with powdered sugar or decorated with a ribbon.

Carrot Cake (Rüblikuchen) – A moist and flavorful carrot cake made with ground nuts and a hint of cinnamon, topped with a light icing. A southern German Easter favorite!