Christmas Market Foods You Need To Try At Least Once

Christmas fairs are central gathering places where food and drinks are shared in a festive atmosphere teeming with sweet anticipation of our favorite holiday. Local markets are decorated and dotted with colorful stalls selling trinkets, nibbles, and copious amounts of mulled wine. The air is filled with warming and smoky aromas, and the atmosphere is brimming with comfort and joy.

This festive tradition started in Germany, which is still considered the leading destination when it comes to Christmas markets. According to Heritage Journal, Germany hosts 2,500 to 3,000 Christmas markets annually. Unsurprisingly, most food at Christmas fairs is inspired by German tradition, but as the markets evolve, the offer incorporates many European specialties, internationally-inspired dishes, and many local delicacies deemed worthy of being included in the nicest Christmas tradition.

As the list of dishes and drinks at Christmas markets is extensive, the following roundup includes the best and most reliable choices. These dishes, snacks, and sweets are easily portable, convenient, warm, and simply wonderful. You still have time to visit the Christmas market nearest to you, but there is no time to hesitate; get there as soon as possible, nibble on some of these market classics, and let the festive atmosphere set you in the mood for Christmas.

Sausage is king in Germany. Also known as "wurst," sausages take central stage in German cuisine, and the country boasts a surprising number of varieties; Michelin Guide mentions almost 1,200 different categories. Though they are usually not restricted to seasons, winter is the ideal time to indulge in a crisp bratwurst or flavorful German-style blood sausage. Of course, there is no better place to enjoy it than a colorful Christmas market. Of all the things on this list, sausages are almost universal to all Christmas markets, in or outside Europe. German-style sausages will either come tucked inside the buns or served with bread rolls or pretzels, mustard, and sauerkraut on the side. Currywurst is perhaps one of the most unusual varieties. As Michelin Guide explains, this bratwurst is cooked, fried, smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce, and served dusted with curry powder.

Of course, there are many techniques for cooking sausages, but the common German practice is to use a traditional "schwenker," in which the grill is suspended over burning coals. The unusual technique prevents the sausages from burning and imparts the perfect amount of char and smoke (via German Girl in America).

Chestnuts are traditional treats in several Mediterranean countries, China, and the U.S. Though their popularity slightly diminished in the last couple of decades, they are still considered an important addition to any festive season. Roasting chestnuts is a common sight at the beginning of the fall, but as their season extends to winter, they often appear at Christmas fairs. The vendors will roast them over open flames, letting the shell loosen and allowing the nuts to get a slight char. The warm, aromatic package of roasted chestnuts perfectly fits the description of a cozy Christmas market atmosphere, and nibbling on a warm chestnut is one of those delightful moments you should experience at least once in your life (via Foodal).

Just like other nuts, chestnuts will also develop flavor when they are roasted. The slightly bitter taste of raw chestnut will turn into creaminess and subtle sweetness, and the flesh will become tender and crumbly. The aroma of roasted chestnut might be the best part, as it results in a wonderful mélange of smoke and nuttiness. Roasted chestnuts will ideally work with any hot Christmas cocktail.

Germknödel is a stunner. If you ever see it at a Christmas market stall, you will hardly resist the urge to dig into this soft, feather-light dumpling. Germknödel originated in Vienna, according to Wien Info. It consists of a tender dough that hides spiced plum jam in the center. When steamed, the bun is served doused in butter. A sprinkle of poppy seeds adds a final touch that makes this hefty dumpling look like it's imitating snow-capped mountain peaks.

Germknödel was initially served at famous ski huts in Austria, but it soon outgrew its original ambition and even crossed the border to become one of the most delectable treats at Christmas markets. However, it only shows up during the colder winter season. Apart from butter, you will also see it doused in a rich vanilla-flavored sauce. One thing to remember is that traditional treat usually acts as the main course, but regardless of how you classify it, Germknödel will be something that you will be dreaming of until the next Christmas season comes (via Parts Unknown).

Kürtőskalács earned its descriptive nickname due to the unusual, conical shape reminiscent of a chimney. This traditional European street snack dates back to the 18th century and traces its roots back to Transylvania, a Romanian region that was once under Hungarian rule. That's why you often see disputes over its history and origin. Nowadays, this delicious treat is not limited by borders and has gained quite an international following. It's not a strictly seasonal product, but you will often find it sold during winter, and of course, it's a staple dessert at Christmas markets as it's pretty convenient to eat on the go (via Atlas Obscura).

It is made with a thinly rolled dough sliced into a strip that is neatly wrapped around a thick metal or wooden skewer and is then gently grilled over fire. As it bakes, it is sprinkled with sugar, and as you would expect, beautiful things begin to happen. The sugar caramelizes, the pastry attains a wonderful golden color, and it gently puffs up. Finally, these hefty cakes are usually sprinkled with flavorings and garnishes. Cinnamon sugar is the traditional option, but modern iterations step away from the humble cinnamon-dusted chimney cakes, and now you will see decadent cream or chocolate-filled versions that are lavishly garnished (via Kurtos Kalacs).

Waffles have long gained international popularity, but they are still strongly linked with Belgium as the place where they originated. Although they are found all year round, waffles are a staple at Christmas markets in their native country and around the world. Deservedly so, as they are convenient, portable, and utterly delicious. Though you've certainly had a waffle before, you might not know that there are two traditional waffle styles. Ampi explains that the thick waffle comes from Liège, while the slightly lighter and softer version is typically associated with Brussels.

Regardless of subtle differences, both varieties are stamped with a checkered pattern and those tiny pockets that hold all those juicy toppings. Ideally, your Christmas market waffle will be warm and fresh. If a plain version is your thing, who are we to judge? However, if you like decadence, you can choose from a decent number of toppings; some favorites are chocolate, whipped cream, and fresh fruit. Don't worry about going overboard. Christmas is not a time to skimp and count calories, especially at a festive winter fair.

Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol, a mountainous Austrian region known for hearty and nutritiously rich local fare. Kiachl, a deep-fried specialty that falls somewhere between bread and a pastry, is a local delicacy that perfectly fits the description. As explained on the official Innsbruck website, kiachl is made with leavened dough that is deep-fried until crisp. It was traditionally served as an accompaniment with main courses, but it also works as a savory snack topped with pungent sauerkraut or as a sweet treat smeared with a thick layer of fruit jams.

Kiachl has come a long way from its humble beginning. Though it was once often shunned and replaced with more filling market options, kiachl has come back with a bang. These days it is rarely made at home, so Christmas markets are a perfect opportunity to get a fresh, crisp kiachl — served with a hint of nostalgia and a healthy dose of tradition.

We're confident you've had mulled wine or mulled cider at least once in your life, but have you ever seen, heard, or tasted the wild concoction that goes under mulled beer? It isn't as crazy as it sounds. Essentially, mulled beer is merely heated beer with added mulling spices. It will typically include a sweetener; honey could work well for this version (skipping honey can also be one of the mistakes you make with mulled wine), and some classic spices such as cinnamon and star anise. Typically, some malt-forward styles will be used for making mulled beer, as light or hoppy lagers don't have enough body and character to match the intensity of spices.

If wine is not your thing, and you'd rather reach for even a mediocre IPA, mulled beer might be an ideal Christmas sipper. It is also an excellent option for the adventurous who get tired of the sometimes syrupy and overly sweet character of classic mulled wine.

Stollen is a wonderfully fragrant bread that pops up around Christmastime. Packed with a medley of citrusy aromas, this spiced bread is usually laced with rum or brandy and dotted with various dry fruits. Despite being a yeasted bread, it is compact but comes off as incredibly buttery and has a distinctive melt-in-your-mouth quality. Traditionally shaped in a loaf — that is said to represent baby Jesus — the bread is smothered in butter and covered in powdered sugar.

The origin of stollen is intricately related to Dresden, where it first appeared in the Middle Ages. This local version has been officially protected as a valuable gastronomic heritage and can be found all year round, but stollen is made and enjoyed across the country. You will find it at most Christmas markets in Germany or its international adaptations.

Stollen is not too sweet and is the perfect Christmas bread to pair with a hot drink. At Christmas markets, it finds ideal partners in mulled wine or spiced punch. As it has a relatively long shelf life and transports easily, it is an excellent market treat to take home as a souvenir or a thoughtful gift. You can serve it with butter and fruit spreads, or even turn it into comforting bread pudding.

Crêpes do not need much introduction or elaborate explanation. These thin pancakes are one of the legendary dishes of traditional French cuisine and have long found their home in other regions and countries. Though they are not reserved for holidays or special occasions, you will commonly find them at European Christmas markets.

They are usually prepared on specialized, flat pans, resulting in a thin pancake that will attain a crisp crust on the edges but retain that tender, chewy texture in the center. The most beautiful thing about these pancakes is the seemingly endless possibilities to dress them up. Savory versions are pretty standard, but crêpes are the perfect blank canvas to play with sweet additions. Anything works here; a sprinkle of sugar, cinnamon, chocolate spreads, caramel, fruit, jams, pastry creams, crushed cookies, and even ice cream makes a beautiful pancake filling. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the top are the perfect finishing touches.

When rolled or wrapped up, crêpes become easily portable, which makes them convenient for Christmas markets as you mostly eat standing up or on the go. These versatile pancakes are great when you're craving a quick snack or a dessert, and the biggest problem will be to choose your favorite filling.

Though mulled wine is the official drink at Christmas markets, don't miss its creamier and sweeter counterpart, usually labeled as egg punch or Eierpunsch. Similar to eggnog, this velvety drink combines egg yolks with a fragrant blend of white wine and spices, resulting in a frothy, silky-smooth combination brimming with warming aromas.

The recipes vary, but vanilla, clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon are usually the dominant aromas. Citrus juice is commonly added for a touch of brightness and zest. In line with Christmas tradition, egg punch is heated as it should be sipped while it's warm. It will usually come served with a generous heap of whipped cream, finished with a whiff of cinnamon. Think of egg punch as the more indulgent Christmas drink, decadent enough for those moments that call for extra warmth and joy.

Egg punch is unquestionably a must-try, but there is a slightly different and equally delicious alternative that you will see labeled as Eierlikör. This version shares more similarities to Dutch Advocaat. It is somewhat more potent as it uses brandy or rum as the base, but it shows a similar character packed with vanilla-like notes and an incredibly creamy palate.