Starting your day with a hearty German breakfast is the perfect way to begin. Germany has a rich tradition of delicious morning meals that are both satisfying and filling. From sweet treats like apple pancakes to savory dishes like sausage and sauerkraut hash, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 traditional German breakfast recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Germany, where you’ll discover classic recipes that have been passed down through generations. From tender breads to flavorful omelettes, each dish is designed to fuel your day with a boost of energy and flavor. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of German breakfast traditions!
German Apple Pancakes with Cinnamon Sugar
These fluffy pancakes are filled with tender apples and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture, making them a perfect breakfast or brunch treat. With minimal prep time and no complicated ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these delicious German-inspired pancakes in no time!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 large apple, peeled and diced
• Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
3. Add diced apples to the batter and stir to combine.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over pancakes and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (4-6 pancakes).
Enjoy your delicious German Apple Pancakes with Cinnamon Sugar!
Bavarian Soft Pretzels with Butter
Experience the warmth and comfort of traditional Bavarian pretzels, soft and buttery on the inside, golden brown on the outside. This recipe yields a deliciously easy-to-make snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
4. Shape into 8-10 pretzels. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush tops with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pretzel salt if desired.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your soft, buttery Bavarian pretzels!
Homemade German Farmer’s Bread
This classic recipe yields a hearty, crusty loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the sugar, melted butter, and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Forest Ham and Cheese Omelette
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and savory omelette recipe, featuring the bold flavors of Black Forest ham and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced Black Forest ham
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese and all of the diced ham on one half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
German Potato Pancakes with Applesauce
Experience the warmth of German tradition with these delicious potato pancakes, served with a sweet and tangy applesauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil or butter for frying
– Applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, chopped onion, egg, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat with about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil or butter.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening slightly to form pancakes.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve warm with applesauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious German Potato Pancakes with Applesauce!
Rye Bread with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese
This recipe combines the rich flavors of rye bread, smoked salmon, and cream cheese to create a delicious and sophisticated snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups rye flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 8 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add rye flour, salt, and caraway seeds. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Meanwhile, mix flaked salmon with cream cheese, lemon juice, and chopped dill (if using).
9. Slice the cooled rye bread and spread with the smoked salmon mixture.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quark Cheese and Berry Parfait
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the creaminess of quark cheese with the freshness of mixed berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quark cheese, softened
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened quark cheese and a drizzle of honey until well combined.
2. Spoon the quark mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle granola over the berries.
5. Repeat the layers: quark mixture, berries, granola.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
German Sausage and Sauerkraut Hash
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional German sausage with tangy sauerkraut and crispy potatoes, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound German sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups cooked potatoes, diced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes and sauerkraut, stirring to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the hash is crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Warm German Potato Salad with Bacon
Warm German Potato Salad with Bacon
Summary: A hearty, comforting potato salad infused with the smoky flavor of bacon and a hint of warm spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss gently over low heat for about 5 minutes or until the potatoes absorb the flavors.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet German Buttercream Stollen
This traditional German Christmas treat is a sweet bread filled with buttery goodness, topped with candied fruit and almonds. Our simplified recipe makes it easy to create this mouthwatering stollen at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and orange zest; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in candied citrus peel, almonds, raisins, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German-Style Scrambled Eggs with Chives
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful German-style scrambled eggs, infused with the pungency of chives.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds.
5. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the eggs are just set.
6. Stir in the chopped chives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Dark Rye Bread with Liverwurst Spread
Rich and savory, this Dark Rye Bread paired with creamy Liverwurst Spread makes a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups dark rye flour
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 pound liverwurst
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dark rye flour, caraway seeds, yeast, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow the bread to cool before slicing.
9. Spread liverwurst on toasted bread slices and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
German Honey-Spiced Granola with Yogurt
Start your day off right with this sweet and crunchy German-inspired granola, perfectly paired with a dollop of creamy yogurt. This recipe combines the warmth of honey and spices with the crunch of toasted oats for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving with yogurt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bratwurst and Egg Breakfast Skillet
Start your day with a hearty and savory breakfast skillet that combines the flavors of Germany with classic breakfast ingredients. This Bratwurst and Egg Breakfast Skillet is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst, sliced
– 6 eggs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bratwurst and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Add the bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Return the bratwurst to the skillet and stir to combine with the egg mixture.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cook until melted and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Plum Cake with Streusel Topping
Experience the warmth of German baking with this classic plum cake recipe topped with a crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a sweet addition to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup prune plums, pitted and sliced
– Streusel Topping (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in eggs and stir in plums.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Prepare Streusel Topping by mixing dry ingredients with softened butter and brown sugar.
6. Sprinkle topping evenly over cake.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Homemade Muesli with Fresh Fruit
Start your day off right with a nutritious and delicious homemade muesli infused with fresh fruit. This easy-to-make breakfast recipe is perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., banana, apple, berries)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it dissolves.
3. Add lemon juice and salt to the honey mixture; stir well.
4. Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the oat mixture; stir until everything is well combined.
5. Serve with your choice of fresh fruit on top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time), 0 minutes (cooking time)
German-Style Cheese and Onion Quiche
A classic quiche recipe with a German twist, featuring caramelized onions and a blend of creamy cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Emmental cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the cooked onions in an even layer on the crust.
5. Mix cream, eggs, Gruyère, and Emmental cheese. Pour the mixture over the onions.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Warm German Chocolate Bread Pudding
Warm German Chocolate Bread Pudding: A rich and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale German chocolate cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and spices.
3. Add the heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Add the cake cubes and stir until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with chopped pecans if using.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Start your day off right with these 18 hearty German breakfast recipes! From sweet treats like German Apple Pancakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Sweet German Buttercream Stollen, to savory options like Black Forest Ham and Cheese Omelette and German Sausage and Sauerkraut Hash, there’s something for everyone. Try a traditional Bavarian Soft Pretzel with Butter or indulge in some Warm German Potato Salad with Bacon. These recipes will transport you to the heart of Germany, where breakfast is a celebration of flavors and traditions. Start your day off right with these delicious German breakfast ideas!
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