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Christmas Desserts

Tipsy tart

250g dates, pitted
1tsp bicarb
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup Butter
3/4 brown sugar (light)
2 XL eggies
1tsp Vanilla Essence
1 1/2 cup Flour
2 tsp Baking Powder
Pinch of salt, just a bietjie.
1/2 cups pecans

For the Sauce
1 cup light brown sugar
1 cup Boiling water
1 TBS Butter
1/2 Cup Brandy + n bietjie vir liefde 😋
1 tsp vanilla, yes twice!


  1. Preheat Oven to 180 degrees.
  2.  Add the pitted dates, Bicarb and a cup of boiling water together. Let it stand for about 10mins.
  3. Cream the butter and the sugar and eggies until light and fluffy.
  4. Mix in the Vanilla Essence
  5. Add the dries to the wets (including the pitted dates mix) and fold it all together and pour into a lightly buttered oven dish.
  6. Bake for about 60 mins, depending on your oven of course! Let’s say 50-60 mins.
  7. Please keep an eye on it, it bakes very dark but obvs have to be spongy
Vir die skop:
  1. Add all the sauce ingredients to a pot and cook until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Poke holes into the baked pudding and pour the sauce over
Shared by Michelle

Black Forest Trifle

  • Chocolate Cake
  • 100 g Sugar
  • 100 ml Cherry juice
  • Juice of on Lemon
  • 500 g Berries (frozen)
  • 500 g Cream
  • 2 packets of Vanilla sugar
  • Chocolate shavings for decoration
  1. Boil the Frozen berries, sugar, cherry and lemon juice together until it becomes thicker. Let it cool
  2. Beat the cream and vanilla sugar until the cream is still
  3. Cut the chocolate cake into think slices or break it into pieces
  4. Layer the cake, berry mix and cream in a glass bowl. Top with chocolate shavings or fresh berries
Notes:
You can sprinkle the cake with sherry or Cherry liquor.
You add a layer of Chocolate mousse or Chocolate custard.
You can add a layer of red jelly.
You can add a dash of Amarula or Bailys to the cream. 

Christmas Fruit Cake

Everyone has their favourite recipe. I find this one on the Sarie website very good with step-by-step instructions and photos. The recipe is in Afrikaans.

Classic Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

  • 50 g glace cherries
  • 45 ml brandy
  • 850 g dried fruit cake mix
  • 50 g nuts
  • 225 g cake flour
  • 2 ml salt
  • 2 ml mixed spice
  • 1 ml freshly grated nutmeg
  • 225 g unsalted butter
  • 225 g molasses sugar
  • 4 extra-large eggs
  • 15 ml molasses
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • Grated zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Fruit:
    Rinse the glace cherries in a sieve to remove the syrup, then dry them thoroughly and chop finely. Add the dried fruit cake mix and mix well. Sprinkle the brandy over the mixture, stir, cover, and let it soak overnight.

  2. Prepare the Pan:
    Grease a deep 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan. Line the base and sides with a double layer of greased wax paper. Wrap a double layer of thick brown paper around the outside of the pan and secure it with string.

  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    Sift the flour, salt, mixed spice, and nutmeg together.

  4. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
    Cream the butter and molasses sugar until light and fluffy.

  5. Add the Eggs:
    Beat the eggs together, then add them to the butter mixture one tablespoon at a time, alternating with a little of the flour mixture to prevent curdling.

  6. Combine Ingredients:
    Gently fold in the remaining flour mixture, followed by the soaked fruit mixture, chopped nuts, and the grated zest of the lemon and orange.

  7. Bake the Cake:
    Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and level the top. Cover the cake with a double layer of wax paper with a small hole cut in the center. Place the pan on a double layer of brown paper on the lowest oven rack. Bake in a preheated oven at 140°C (284°F) for about 4½ hours. The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

  8. Cool and Store:
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack. Sprinkle a little brandy or rum over the cooled cake. Wrap it in a double layer of wax paper.

    Storage Tips:

    • The cake can be stored for up to 6 months at room temperature or up to a year in the freezer.
    • For best results, open the cake weekly at first, then monthly, and sprinkle with additional brandy to keep it moist and flavorful.

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Christmas Markets Visiting Christmas markets in Germany is a delightful way of celebrating the festive season. The heavy scent of sweets, fried sausage and warm wine welcomes you to a variety of Christmas delicacies. If you’re feeling a little chilly, grab a warm mug of Glühwein and catch up with friends. Not only are the markets a great place to socialise, but you can also pick up unique gifts, mouth-watering Christmas cookies, and Stollen. Not to mention, you’ll be able to kit yourself out for the winter with cosy woollen gloves and beanie hats. We compiled this list from our own experiences as well as the recommendations from members of our Facebook group. You are welcome to contact us if you want to add to the list When do the Chrismas markets open Most Christmas markets in Germany open around the start of Advent — the fourth Sunday before Christmas, usually in late November. In many towns, the festive lights flicker on the Monday after Totensonntag (the Sunday of the Dead), marking the respectful end of the mourning period and the joyful beginning of the Christmas season.The markets then stay open through December, often closing on Christmas Eve, although some, especially in larger cities, remain open. If you’re eager to dive in early, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest, usually opens before Advent, drawing visitors with its centuries-old charm. For those who wish to linger in the glow a little longer, Berlin and Cologne host a few markets that stay open past Christmas, carrying the festive spirit into the New Year. Where to find Christmas Markets In larger cities, you’ll often find several Christmas markets scattered across different neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique atmosphere. Smaller towns, however, typically host one main market, where the cosy charm and close-knit community spirit truly shine, making it a magical experience for visitors. Map Please note that some listings on the map only indicate the city, so be sure to confirm the exact address of the Christmas market before planning your visit. Baden-Württemberg Altensteiger Altstadt-Weihnachtsmarkt – A charming market in the old town with festive stalls, seasonal treats, and local crafts, perfect for families and those looking for a traditional atmosphere. Baden-Baden’s Christmas market is open after Christmas till 6 January, and it was pretty awesome. I found different stalls compared to other Christmas markets, and last year they had a Nativity Ausstellung from around the world (not sure if it is an annual thing) that was pretty awesome. Biberach Christkindlmarkt – Set in the historic town square, this market is known for its festive lights, traditional crafts, and regional treats, offering a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Calw – A picturesque market in the town’s medieval centre, featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal delicacies, and festive entertainment for all ages. Esslingen – Der Esslinger Mittelaltermarkt & Weihnachtsmarkt is a Medieval Christmas market close to Stuttgart. Watch a video here Freiburg – This market spans the historic old town and features local crafts, Black Forest specialities, and a lively festive program for visitors of all ages. Gengenbacher Adventsmarkt – Central to the festivities is the historic Rathaus, proudly known as the world’s largest Advent calendar house, where 24 windows are revealed one by one each night in a cherished tradition of light and wonder. Heidelberg – The Heidelberg Christmas Market unfolds beneath the watchful gaze of Heidelberg Castle, with the Neckar River shimmering nearby — a setting so picturesque it feels lifted from a winter postcard. Known for its romantic atmosphere, it’s a favourite for couples strolling hand in hand and families soaking up the festive spirit together. Hohenzollern Castle – as of 2021, they do not have a Christmas market but a Royal Winter Magic event The Christkindlmarkt in Durlach, Karlsruhe – A festive market with a medieval flair, featuring artisanal crafts, seasonal treats, and live entertainment in the historic town center. Konstanzer Weihnachtsmarkt direkt am Bodensee – Located right on the shores of Lake Constance, this market combines stunning waterside views with traditional festive stalls and regional delicacies. Ludwigsburg – Ludwigsburger Barock Weihnachtsmarkt. Watch a video here Ravenna Schlucht Christmas Market – Nestled beneath the arches of the Ravenna Viaduct, this market offers a magical setting among forested hills and snow-dusted scenery, with traditional crafts and seasonal treats. Stuttgart – Spread over a large area around Schlossplatz, this market features extensive stalls, festive lights, local foods, and a lively program of seasonal entertainment. Tubingen – The Market is excellent for chocolates, handcrafted gifts, and a cozy old town setting. Ulm – Famous for the church with the highest tower in the world, the market in front of the cathedral offers festive stalls, local foods, and a magical atmosphere. Zavelsteiner Burgweihnacht – Held at Zavelstein Castle, this market combines historic charm with festive lights, handcrafted gifts, and regional delicacies in a romantic hilltop setting. Ravenna Schlucht Nestled beneath the towering arches of the Ravenna Viaduct (Ravennaviadukt), the Christmas market in the Ravenna Gorge (Ravennaschlucht) transforms this historic railway bridge and its surrounding Black Forest pines into a fairytale scene. The market is nestled beneath the towering arches of the Ravenna Viaduct, a historic railway bridge. The dramatic backdrop, surrounded by dense pine forests and snow-dusted hills, creates a beautiful atmosphere. But unlike many open-air markets, this one requires planning ahead: Tickets are mandatory. There is no ticket office on site. All tickets must be purchased in advance, online. Ticket presales usually begin in mid-October. You’ll pick a specific time slot for your visit. The tickets are for a window of about 2 hours, so you can enjoy the atmosphere without overcrowding. More info Bayern Kuchlbauers Turmweihnacht in Abensberg is one of the best I’ve ever been to. An outdoor and indoor market. The indoor one is underground and probably has a lot of SA Market-style goodies. Not often seen at Markets here. Not sure how the indoor one will work this year, but the vibe was magical around the Turm. Only an hour and a bit North of Munich. Here is an

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German Christmas Recipes Baking cookies for Christmas is what childhood memories are made of. We will list some websites here where you can find authentic Christmas recipes.  Typical Christmas food Zimtsterne Pfeffernüsse  Vanillekipferl Lebkuchen  Ausstechplätzchen (cut out cookies) Spekulatius Spritzgebäck Linzer Plätzchen Kokosmakronen Dominosteine Engelsaugen Rumkugeln Stollen Spitsbuben Glühwein.  Eierpunsch.  Heiße Schokolade (preferably spiked with some rum!)  Feuerzangenbowle.  Jagertee.  Glühbier.  Grog. Kinderpunsch Roasted Goose Red cabbage Dumplings Roasted Rosenkohl List of websites German Culture  – Christmas Recipes German girl in America – Christmas Dinner My best German Recipes  Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

German Christmas Traditions

St. Nicholas Day St Nicholas Day, known as Nikolaustag in Germany, is celebrated on the 6th of December. Children leave a pair of cleaned boots outside their door on the evening of the 5th. The boots are then filled with sweets and small gifts. According to legend, Nicholas of Myra gave a poor father money in order to prevent his daughters from being taken into slavery, as the father did not have the funds for his daughters’ dowries. He threw the money through the family’s window, which landed in their shoes, which were drying near their fireplace. Days until Nikolastag Advent Advent is celebrated on the 4 Sundays before Christmas. It is a Christian tradition to prepare for the arrival or coming of Jesus Christ.The first Advent is the first Sunday after 26 November.  Advent wreaths have four large candles, which represent the four weeks of Advent and one candle is lit each Sunday. Families spend some quiet and reflective time together and sing Christmas carols. Drinking and eating typical Christmas food like Stollen, Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted almonds and chestnuts The first candle represents Hope, the second Faith, the third Joy and the final candle Peace.  Advent Calendar The Advent calendar counts down the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve. Every day a new door of the calendar is opened to reveal a small chocolate or a gift. Originally they concealed a picture or bible verse. Christmas Tree (Tannenbaum) The first known Christmas tree was set up in 1419 in Freiburg by the town bakers They decorated the tree with fruits, nuts, and baked goods, which the children were allowed to remove and eat on New Year’s Day. In Germany, you set up and decorate the tree on Christmas Eve. It is traditional to use a real fir tree. The tree is taken down in January and there are specific days for disposal Christmas markets Most town squares transform into beautiful Christmas markets. Traditionally there will be a big Christmas tree and Nativity scene (Krippe). Additionally, there are where you can buy delicious food, warm drinks and handmade gifts. It is a wonderful place to meet up with friends for some Glühwein while listening to carol singers   Krippe The nativity scene is called a Krippe. It is usually put up in homes, churches and Christmas markets. You can buy the individual pieces at Christmas markets. Look for wooden hand made pieces Weinachtspyramide A wooden carousel with angels and a nativity scene. It has several levels and spins with the help of heat from candles. The larger ones you find at Christmas markets work with electricity Nutcracker dolls Nutcracker dolls originate from late-17th century Germany, particularly the Ore Mountains (German: Erzgebirge) region.The average handmade Nutcracker doll is made from 60 separate pieces and it takes a great deal of time and effort to bring them to life. Every detail of the doll is carefully crafted, from the hair to the clothes and everything in between.  They are made to resemble a toy soldier.Traditional Nutcrackers were functional and used to crack nuts, modern ones are more decorative. Schwibbogen Also called a Lichterbogen, is a beautiful decorative arch originating from the Ore Mountains in Germany. The Schwibbogen is traditionally made of wood and features intricate cut-out designs, often depicting scenes from daily life or folklore. They are illuminated with candles or electric lights, creating a cosy and festive atmosphere.  They also hold cultural significance for the people of the Ore Mountains. The Schwibbogen is believed to symbolize a coal mine’s entrance, highlighting the region’s important mining history. Additionally, many Schwibbogen feature religious motifs, representing the Christian roots of the Ore Mountain communities. Christmas Eve Time to set up the tree, enjoy a simple meal with family and exchange gifts.The traditional meal for the 24th consists of carp, boiled potatoes, cucumber salad and lemon slices. Another alternative is Sausages with potato salad  Christmas Day Many families attend church services and sing traditional Christmas carolsA large meal is traditionally eaten in the afternoon or early evening. Typical dishes include Roast goose or duck stuffed with apples, chestnuts, onions or prunes. Dumplings and Red cabbage with onions and apples are served as side dishes. Days until Christmas

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