Traditional German Drinks and Sweet Pairings

ByViktor Waltz

PHOTO BY BLUEEYES ON PIXABAY

Exploring traditional German drinks reveals a rich tapestry of flavors. Mixing classic beverages with sweet treats creates a delightful culinary experience.

This blog post uncovers the perfect pairings that celebrate the unique heritage of Germany’s drinking culture, bringing a refreshing twist to any gathering. Whether for festive occasions or casual get-togethers, these combinations promise to enchant the taste buds.

Glühwein and Christmas Desserts

Glühwein is a traditional German mulled wine, usually enjoyed during the colder months. Its warm, spiced flavor pairs beautifully with festive desserts.

Popular Christmas desserts to enjoy with Glühwein:

  • Stollen: A rich fruitcake filled with nuts, marzipan, and spices.
  • Lebkuchen: Gingerbread cookies that are often glazed or coated in chocolate.
  • Pfeffernüsse: Spiced cookies, traditionally made with pepper and nuts.

Check out this pairing of Gluhwein and stollen:

Spekulatius Cream and Coffee

Spekulatius cream paired with coffee creates a delightful combination. The sweet, spiced flavor of the cream complements the rich, bold notes of coffee.

Ingredients for Spekulatius cream:

  • 200 ml heavy cream
  • 100 g Spekulatius cookies, crushed
  • 50 g powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Gently fold in crushed Spekulatius cookies, sugar, and vanilla.

For added flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the experience.

See a variation of this recipe here:

Vanillekipferl and Coffee

Vanillekipferl are delicate crescent-shaped cookies, traditionally made with ground almonds and flavored with vanilla. Their buttery, crumbly texture complements a warm cup of coffee perfectly.

When pairing them with coffee, a medium roast enhances the sweet notes of the cookies. Options include:

  • Espresso: Strong and bold, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
  • Cappuccino: Creamy and frothy, balancing the cookie’s richness.
  • Cold Brew: Smooth and refreshing, ideal for warmer days.

Here’s a video tutorial on how to make these cookies: