Traditional German Christmas Recipes Your Family Will Love

German Christmas is a feast for all the senses. The aroma of cinnamon and cloves fills the air, Glühwein warms your hands, and the table overflows with generations-old recipes. Here's how to recreate the magic at home.

The German Christmas Table

In Germany, Christmas Eve (Heiligabend) is the main celebration. Families gather around a beautifully set table with traditional dishes that have been passed down for generations.

Essential Christmas Recipes

Glühwein (German Mulled Wine)

No German Christmas is complete without Glühwein. This spiced, warm red wine is the heart of every Weihnachtsmarkt. Make a big pot and let the house fill with its intoxicating aroma. Get the recipe →

Lebkuchen

These soft, spiced gingerbread cookies are Germany's answer to Christmas cookies. Unlike hard gingerbread, Lebkuchen should be soft and chewy with a thin chocolate or sugar glaze. Get the recipe →

Zimtsterne

Star-shaped cinnamon almond cookies with a white meringue topping. They're gluten-free (made with ground almonds) and absolutely addictive. Get the recipe →

Weihnachtsgans (Christmas Goose)

The centerpiece of the German Christmas dinner. A perfectly roasted goose with crispy skin and tender meat, traditionally served with Rotkohl (red cabbage) and Klöße (dumplings). Get the recipe →

Kartoffelsalat

In many German families, Christmas Eve means Kartoffelsalat mit Würstchen (potato salad with sausages) — a humble tradition that's deeply beloved. Get the recipe →