Enjoy the authentic flavors and rich history of traditional German pastries, from Dominosteine to Bethmännchen, delicious treats you shouldn’t miss!
Germany is known as a paradise for pastry lovers. Its diverse selection of traditional cakes and cookies not only offers delightful flavors but also holds deep cultural and historical significance.
Many of these pastries are closely associated with Christmas traditions and are often enjoyed with family during the winter season.
From layered Dominosteine to the historic Bethmännchen mit Salzmandeln, here are eight traditional German pastries you must try!
1. Dominosteine – A Sweet, Multi-Layered Christmas Treat
One of the most iconic Christmas treats in Germany is Dominosteine, a small cube-shaped layered confection with a unique combination of flavors:
- Base layer: Lebkuchen (traditional German gingerbread)
- Middle layer: Fruit jelly (usually cherry or apricot)
- Top layer: Marzipan or persipan
- Coating: Dark chocolate, giving it a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness
History:
First created by Herbert Wendler in 1936 in Dresden, Dominosteine was initially a more affordable alternative to luxurious pralines. Today, it remains a must-have Christmas delicacy in Germany and Austria and is considered a Typical German Food.
2. Vanillekipferl – Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crescent Cookies
Vanillekipferl is a classic crescent-shaped cookie originating from Germany, Austria, and other Central European countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. These cookies have a crumbly exterior but instantly melt in your mouth.
Main ingredients:
- Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts
- Butter, ensuring a soft texture
- Powdered vanilla sugar, generously dusted after baking
With its sweet and fragrant vanilla aroma, Vanillekipferl is the perfect companion to a cup of tea or coffee, especially during the cold winter months.
3. Zimsterne – Cinnamon Star Cookies
Zimsterne is a star-shaped cinnamon cookie from Swabia, Germany, known for its strong cinnamon flavor and chewy texture.
Key ingredients:
- Ground almonds, forming the base
- Cinnamon, the dominant spice
- Egg whites and powdered sugar, creating a glossy icing on top
Zimsterne is a Christmas favorite and is often served as part of family celebrations. If you love the rich taste of cinnamon, this delightful cookie will surely become one of your favorites!
4. Marmoriertes Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck – Artistic Black & White Cookies
Marmoriertes Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck is a visually striking cookie with a unique black-and-white pattern, made from a combination of vanilla and chocolate dough.
Common patterns include:
- Swirls
- Checkerboard designs
- Striped or marbled effects
These cookies are crispy with a mild sweetness, making them an excellent treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
5. Spitzbuben mit Glühweingelee – Christmas Cookies with Fruit Jelly
Spitzbuben mit Glühweingelee is a classic Christmas cookie in Germany, often crafted into various festive shapes. These cookies typically feature a cut-out hole in the center, allowing the vibrant fruit jelly filling to show through.
Main ingredients:
- Butter, flour, and almonds, forming the base dough
- Powdered sugar, lightly dusted on top
- Fruit jelly or jam, such as grape or berry flavors
- With its crispy exterior and soft, sweet filling, Spitzbuben is an ideal winter treat!
6. Elisenlebkuchen – Premium Gingerbread from Nuremberg
Elisenlebkuchen is a special variant of Lebkuchen, Germany’s famous gingerbread, originally from Nuremberg. Compared to regular Lebkuchen, Elisenlebkuchen has a softer texture as it contains less flour and more nuts and spices.
Key ingredients:
- Hazelnuts and almonds, forming the base
- Marzipan and honey, creating a soft texture
- Candied orange peel, adding a fresh citrusy touch
- Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, enhancing its aroma
Elisenlebkuchen is often coated with dark chocolate or white icing, making it a luxurious Christmas delicacy.
7. Honig-Pfeffernüsse – Gingerbread Balls with Powdered Sugar
Honig-Pfeffernüsse is a small, round gingerbread cookie popular in Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark. Its name comes from “Honig” (honey) and “Pfeffernüsse” (pepper nuts), though the cookie does not actually contain pepper.
Main ingredients:
- Honey, as a natural sweetener
- Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, providing a signature warm flavor
- Powdered sugar, dusted on top
With its slightly crunchy exterior and soft interior, Honig-Pfeffernüsse is the perfect snack for those who love spiced pastries with a touch of sweetness.
8. Bethmännchen mit Salzmandeln – A Historic Marzipan Cookie from Frankfurt
Bethmännchen mit Salzmandeln is a small marzipan-based cookie from Frankfurt, known for its unique shape adorned with three almond slices.
Main ingredients:
- Marzipan and almonds, forming the base
- Powdered sugar and rose water, adding a distinct floral sweetness
- Salted almonds, used as decoration
History:
This cookie has an interesting backstory. Originally, Bethmännchen was decorated with four almond slices, symbolizing the four sons of the Bethmann family. However, after the death of one son in 1845, the almond count was reduced to three, a tradition that continues to this day.
Conclusion: A Taste of German Tradition in Every Bite
Traditional German pastries are more than just delicious treats—they carry stories, history, and cultural significance passed down for generations.
From layered Dominosteine to symbolic Bethmännchen, each delicacy offers a unique taste and experience worth savoring. They also make for Typical German Souvenirs, perfect for bringing a piece of Germany home.
If you ever visit Germany, or if you want to recreate an authentic German culinary experience at home, don’t miss out on these delightful pastries, especially during the Christmas season!
