35+ Best Austrian Christmas Market Foods You Need to Try (with FREE Checklist)
If thereโs one thing that I can’t resist while visiting the Austrian Christmas markets, itโs the incredible food.
From savoury Kiachl with sauerkraut to Kaiserschmarrn dusted with sugar, the variety is endless.
And if you need to know anything about us, it’s that we love food almost as much as we love to travel!
After spending a whole week exploring the Austrian Christmas Markets, I definitely became somewhat of an expert on the cuisine.
Ready to find out which foods you absolutely need to try? Letโs take a bite out of the best dishes these festive markets have to offer!
Best Austrian Christmas Market Foods You Just Have to Try
After spending a week in Austria exploring the many Christmas Markets, I can honestly say that we have tasted most of the foods offered at the markets.
While many of them were huge hits, others we came across were duds and not very well-liked.
We have chosen to break up our list of foods into three categories – sweet, savoury, and festive drinks – to make things a little easier.
Sweet Treats
I definitely have a sweet tooth, so the treats were my favourite to try. And there were zero arguments from the family when I insisted on trying some new sweet treat!
1. Lebkuchen
Lebkuchen is a favourite of mine.
The Austrian version of gingerbread, Lebkuchen cookies are often spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
They have been a Christmas staple for centuries, with recipes dating back to the 13th century.
While I prefer the smaller cookies that are filled with jam, Lebkuchen comes in a variety of styles and flavours.
You will find the heart-shaped Lebkuchen decorated with icing and inscriptions at nearly every Austrian Christmas market.
You will often see it hanging in the stalls as part of the seasonal decor.
The version is harder than the smaller cookies, and the icing makes it much sweeter.
I am not a fan of this type of Lebkuchen.
2. Christmas Stollen
Stollen is a traditional Austrian dessert most commonly made during the Christmas season.
This dessert is a dense and rich fruit bread made from a sweet, buttery yeast dough.
Stollen is typically spiced or lemon-flavoured and includes a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan.
The bread is usually shaped into an oblong loaf and finished with a coating of butter and powdered sugar.
3. Gebrannte Mandeln
Gebrannte Mandeln, or roasted almonds, are a popular snack at Austrian Christmas markets and one of my personal favourites.
These almonds are coated in sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, and then roasted until caramelized to perfection.
Many stands also sell other nuts like peanuts, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, and hazelnuts. Mixed bags are often available, and that’s usually my choice.
This tradition dates back to the 17th century when vendors sold roasted nuts at fairs and festivals.
Today, they remain a holiday favourite. Often served in paper cones, you can even find different flavours, like chocolate or chilli for a spicy twist.
And let me tell you, the sweet, warm aroma of these treats fills the market air and makes it nearly impossible for me to resist!
4. Bauernkrapfen
Bauernkrapfen are a traditional pastry from Austria and Bavaria, similar to a donut but flatter and larger.
Made with yeast dough, theyโre deep-fried to golden perfection, with thin, crispy centers and soft, fluffy edges.
At Christmas markets, theyโre often topped with powdered sugar, jam, or occasionally a dollop of creamy custard.
John and the kids couldnโt get enough of the custard-filled ones, though I found them a bit too heavy for my taste.
5. Germknรถdel
Germknรถdel is a traditional Austrian dessert made of a large steamed dumpling.
The dumpling is made from soft, sweet yeast dough that turns light and fluffy when steamed.
It’s usually topped with a warm vanilla sauce that soaks into the dough. It’s then sprinkled with cinnamon, ground poppy seeds, or both.
At the Christmas markets, we found many vendors offering Germknรถdel filled with fruit compote.
We tried plum, cherry, and raspberry versions. I skipped the apple ones because of an allergy.
They quickly became my favourite market treat!
6. Schaumbecher
Schaumbecher is a sweet treat often found at Christmas markets in Austria.
It consists of an ice cream cone that is filled with fluffy marshmallow-like foam and usually topped with a layer of chocolate.
Some versions are decorated with sprinkles or crushed nuts for extra texture.
These cones are a hit with the kids, but Iโll admit, they were a little too sweet for me.
On the plus side, theyโre usually inexpensive, so itโs easy to grab one (or two) without overthinking it!
7. Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, shredded pancake that originated in Austria but is also popular at German Christmas markets.
Itโs made with a light batter, cooked until golden, and then torn into pieces and caramelized with sugar.
Served warm, itโs usually paired with apple sauce or plum compote.
The one we tried in Vienna came with blackberry sauce, and it was absolutely delicious!
8. Mohnnudeln
Mohnnudeln is a traditional Austrian dish made from potato dough, shaped into small dumplings or noodles.
After boiling, theyโre tossed in butter and coated with ground poppy seeds and sugar, giving them a slightly nutty, sweet flavour.
Theyโre typically served warm, often with a side of fruit compote like plum or apricot.
They were absolutely perfect for a chilly evening. I tried them with a drizzle of vanilla sauce, and they were so satisfying!
9. Linzeraugen
Linzeraugen, or Linzer cookies, are delicate sandwich cookies filled with fruity jam, usually raspberry or red currant.
Made from a buttery, almond-based dough, the top cookie features small cut-out shapes that show off the jam inside.
These cookies originated in Austria and are dusted with powdered sugar, making them a festive favourite at Christmas markets in Germany and beyond.
My family loves these cookies. In fact, we would often pick up some to take back to our rental as an after-dinner treat.
10. Strudel
Strudel is a classic Austrian pastry thatโs become a staple at Christmas markets all over the country.
Itโs made with thin, flaky dough wrapped around a sweet or savoury filling.
The most popular version, apple strudel, is filled with spiced apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs, and then baked until golden.
At the markets, itโs usually served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and sometimes paired with a scoop of vanilla sauce.
John and the kids usually reach for the apple version, but Iโve seen varieties with cherry, poppy seeds, and even cheese.
Once again, due to an allergy, I usually opted for a different flavoured strudel (cherry is my fave), which was just as good.
But my all-time fave was the peach-mango strudel I tasted at the Innsbruck Christmas Market. OMGee it was sooooo good!
11. Paradiesรคpfel
Paradiesรคpfel, or candied apples, are a common sight at most markets, though theyโre not always the same.
We saw plenty of the classic bright red apples with a hard, glossy sugar coating.
But there were also versions dipped in chocolate or covered in candy like gummies or Skittles.
Unfortunately, theyโre not for me because of my apple allergy!
12. Sweet Pretzels
Sweet pretzels are a fun variation of the classic and are a hit at the Austrian Christmas markets.
These soft, doughy treats are often coated in cinnamon sugar or drizzled with chocolate for added sweetness.
Some are even filled with Nutella or vanilla cream, offering plenty of options to choose from.
Personally, I prefer the traditional savoury pretzels over the sweet ones. But that’s just the German in me!
Savoury Foods
These savoury foods range from a quick snack to a full-on hearty meal. There are also vegetarian options included.
13. Brezeln
Brezeln, or pretzels, are an iconic snack youโll find at every Austrian Christmas market.
These baked treats are known for their signature knot shape, crispy golden-brown crust, and soft, chewy center.
While the classic version is sprinkled with coarse salt, youโll also find ones topped with melted cheese, seeds, or garlic butter for extra flavour.
My favourite way to enjoy them is sliced in half and slathered with butter.
14. Suppe
I absolutely couldn’t resist when I came across soup served in a bread bowl at the Stephansplatz Christmas Market in Vienna.
The soup, often a creamy potato, pumpkin (which I tried), goulash, or tomato, is served in a hollowed-out bread loaf that soaks up all the flavours as you eat.
We didnโt spot this at too many markets, but it was definitely a great way to warm up on a chilly day!
The best part? Once the soup is finished, you can enjoy the softened bread bowlโtwo treats in one!
15. รberbackene Brote
รberbackene Brote is Austria’s version of Raclette.
This popular savoury treat involves melted Tilsiter or Bergkรคse cheese scraped over bread that is topped with meat or vegetables (or both).
The cheese is warmed and softened until bubbly, then generously spread over your bread. It’s ridiculously delicious!
Trust me when I say, you will have absolutely no problem finding at least a couple of stalls selling this gooey treat in any market that you visit.
16. Lรกngos
Lรกngos is a popular Hungarian snack that has made its way to some Austrian Christmas markets.
This deep-fried flatbread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Itโs traditionally topped with garlic butter, sour cream, and grated cheese, but the toppings can vary depending on the market.
We even spotted a few stands offering sweet versions with powdered sugar or Nutella as toppings.
17. Kiachl
Kiachl is a traditional Tyrolean treat youโll want to add to your must-try list. (Because who doesnโt have a list, right?)
These deep-fried dough pastries are served warm and can be topped with sweet or savoury fillings.
For a sweet option, theyโre often dusted with powdered sugar or filled with cranberry jam.
If savoury is more your style, theyโre fantastic with sauerkraut. Thatโs what we tried, and it was absolutely delicious!
Kiachl has been a local favourite for centuries, originally made for festive occasions.
Today, itโs a staple at the regionโs Christmas markets.
18. Bratwurst
Bratwurst is a classic German sausage that can also be found in pretty much all Austrian Christmas markets.
They are served grilled to perfection, usually in a crusty roll with mustard or sauerkraut on top.
Youโll find a variety of sausage types, from the traditional pork bratwurst to regional specialties like the Depreziner, which is seasoned with paprika.
I think the boys tried several versions during our trip, for comparison’s sake. Ha!
19. Kรคsekrainer
Kรคsekrainer is a must-try if youโre a fan of hearty street food.
Itโs a delicious Austrian sausage filled with bits of melted cheese and grilled to perfection.
Kรคsekrainer is typically served either in a bun or with a roll on the side. You can customize it with toppings like pickles, fried onions, and mustard.
I can’t even tell you how fast the boys inhaled this delicacy. No really… it was so fast that I didn’t even get a photo!
20. Leberkรคse
Leberkรคse is a classic comfort food youโll find at many Austrian Christmas markets.
Itโs a type of meatloaf made from finely ground pork, beef, and bacon, baked until it has a crispy, golden crust.
Slices are usually served warm in a crusty roll with a dollop of mustard.
Despite its name, it doesnโt actually contain liver or cheeseโsomething that surprised me the first time I tried it!
And while it’s described as meatloaf, it’s nothing like North American meatloaf.
I found the consistency to be more like a thick slice of bologna.
This was hands down our least favourite food that we tried. Not one member of our family enjoyed it.
21. Bosna
Bosna is a popular street food youโll find at Austrian Christmas markets.
Itโs a grilled sausage served in a crusty bun and topped with onions, mustard, and a special curry spice blend.
The flavours are a little different from the usual market snacks, which makes it stand out.
We found this Austrian specialty in the Salzburg Christmas Markets.
22. Erdรคpfelrรถsti
Erdรคpfelrรถsti are crispy potato pancakes that are similar to our hash browns.
Made from grated potatoes mixed with onions and a touch of flour, theyโre fried until golden brown.
Erdรคpfelrรถsti are traditionally topped with salt and garlic sauce. But other popular toppings include spinach and cheese, sour cream and ham, or even apple sauce.
We tried several variations while exploring the Christmas markets, and our favourite topping was applesauce for the kids and garlic sauce for me and John.
23. Ofenerdรคpfel
Ofenerdรคpfel, or stuffed baked potatoes, was not something I expected to find in an Austrian Christmas Market!
Yet, they were everywhere!
Theyโre exactly what youโd imagineโa large baked potato loaded with a variety of fillings.
Some popular options we saw included sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon, and even smoked salmon.
24. Bauerngrรถstl
Bauerngrรถstl is a rustic Austrian dish made with sliced potatoes.
The potatoes are boiled first, then pan-fried until crispy and golden along with onions, beef or pork, seasonings, and butter.
Itโs a hearty dish that I remember eating as a child.
And itโs definitely the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out!
25. Arancini
John was surprised to spot Arancini in Vienna’s Christkindlmart.
These delicious rice balls, commonly found in Sicily and across Italy, felt like an unexpected find at an Austrian Christmas market.
Made from risotto rice, theyโre typically stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables, then breaded and deep-fried to create a crispy exterior.
They were quite yummy and brought back memories of the ones my Nana Mary used to make.
We also came across stands offering sweet Arancini filled with chocolate or custard, which were just as tasty.
26. Grammelknรถdel
Grammelknรถdel are traditional Austrian dumplings made from potato dough and stuffed with crispy pork cracklings (called Grammeln).
I absolutely LOVE dumplings!
So I was pretty stoked when I found out that these were a popular treat in the markets.
These dumplings are boiled until tender, then sometimes pan-fried for a slightly crispy outside.
Theyโre usually served with sauerkraut or a side of salad, making them a hearty and savoury meal.
I tried them in the Vienna Christmas market, and the combination of the soft dumpling and the rich, salty filling was so satisfying.
27. Schupfnudeln
Schupfnudeln are Austrian noodles made from potatoes, flour, and eggs.
Theyโre hand-rolled into finger-like shapes, then boiled and pan-fried until crispy on the outside.
They remind me of Italian gnocchi, but theyโre much larger.
Schupfnudeln are often served with sauerkraut and bacon, and itโs absolutely deliciousโeven the kids loved it!
Schupfnudeln are the savoury version of the Mohnnudeln we mentioned earlier.
๐ฒ Fun Fact: The name “Schupfnudeln” comes from the German word “schupfen,” meaning to shove, which describes the way theyโre shaped.
28. Schinkenfleckerl
Schinkenfleckerl is a hearty Austrian dish made with bowtie pasta, ham, and a creamy sauce.
The pasta is cooked until tender, then mixed with diced ham and baked in the oven until golden on top.
Itโs simple comfort food thatโs perfect for a cold winter day.
At some Christmas markets, we found versions topped with a bit of melted cheese, which made it even more indulgent.
I would have to say, it’s a dish the whole family enjoyedโwarm, filling, and absolutely satisfying!
29. Kasnocken
Kasnocken are basically the Austrian version of Kรคsespรคtzle.
This comfort food dish is made from soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy fried onions.
Much better than North American mac and cheese (at least in my opinion), itโs rich, creamy, and full of flavour.
Not surprisingly, this is my kids’ favourite dish!
30. Maroni
Throughout Austria, roasted chestnuts, or Maroni, are a classic winter snack.
Theyโre cooked over an open flame until the shells crack open, revealing a warm, tender, and mildly sweet center.
Served in paper cones, Maroni are a nostalgic and traditional treat.
I loved that most markets had an oven that looked like an old steam engine train where the maroni were roasted.
Festive Drinks
I donโt usually drink much, but I canโt resist sipping on Glรผhwein while exploring the markets. Plus, there are plenty of non-alcoholic optionsโand I couldnโt pass up collecting the mugs!
31. Glรผhwein
Glรผhwein, which is mulled wine, is an iconic staple at Christmas Markets across Austria.
Itโs typically made with red wine and flavoured with spices like anise, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus zest from oranges and lemons.
While exploring the markets, I tried both the red and white versions, and they were equally delicious!
Served hot, itโs definitely. great way to take the chill out of a night at the markets.
32. Glรผhmost
Glรผhmost is a warm spiced drink thatโs a bit like Glรผhwein but made with cider instead of wine.
Itโs usually made from fermented apple or pear juice, heated and infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
The result is a warm, slightly tangy drink with a hint of sweetness.
It’s a great non-alcoholic option if you want something a little more complex than just cider.
33. Weihnachtspunsch
Itโs hard to visit the Vienna Christmas markets without trying Weihnachtspunsch at least once.
Like Glรผhwein, this spiced mulled drink is served hot and is a great way to warm up on a chilly December day.
There are so many fruit flavours to choose from, so itโs easy to find one youโll enjoy.
And for anyone avoiding alcohol, Kinderpunsch has all the same great flavours without alcohol.
34. Kinderpunsch
Kinderpunsch is a non-alcoholic mulled drink thatโs pretty popular at Austrian Christmas markets.
Itโs a great option for kids or anyone skipping alcohol. In fact, our kids really enjoyed it.
Itโs made by warming fruit juices like apple, cherry, or grape with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. The drink is incredibly flavourful and aromatic.
While itโs sometimes sweetened with honey or sugar, I never found it to be overly sweet.
35. Feuerzangenbowle
Feuerzangenbowle is a unique Austrian drink that you will find in almost every Christmas Market.
Feuerzangenbowle begins with a citrusy Glรผhwein base.
A rum-soaked sugar cone, called a Zuckerhut, is set on fire above the pot, melting the sugar into the spiced wine below.
This creates a rich, caramelized flavour that makes the drink so unique.
While itโs popular, most markets donโt serve it with the sugar cone flaming over your cup.
Instead, youโd usually find a large cauldron of Feuerzangenbowle in the stall with a giant sugar cone burning on top. Your drink would then be ladled out from there.
Either way, it was absolutely delicious!
36. Heiรer Schokolade
Heiรer Schokolade, or hot chocolate, is a favourite at Austrian Christmas markets.
Itโs enjoyed by both kids and adults, it’s made with rich melted chocolate or cocoa powder mixed with steamed milk.
Most stalls serve it topped with whipped cream, but I also saw some offering marshmallows or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
The Austrian hot chocolate got approval from everyone in the familyโexcept my mom, who doesnโt like chocolate (hard to believe, but true!).
37. Lumumba
Before visiting the Christmas markets, I had never heard of Lumumba.
Itโs a mix of hot chocolate and a shot of rum. The combination creates a rich and creamy drink with a warm kick from the alcohol.
Topped with whipped cream, itโs a deliciously indulgent treat for adults.
I may have sampled a fewโstrictly for comparison, of course!
38. Hot Aperol
Hot Aperol is a delicious twist on the classic Aperol Spritz.
We came across it at one of the smaller Christmas Markets in Vienna.
Instead of being served cold, itโs warmed up and mixed with orange juice, creating a slightly sweet, citrusy drink with Aperolโs signature bitter edge.
Itโs then topped off with some whipped cream for a festive touch.
I wasnโt sure what to expect, but it turned out to be quite yummy and perfect for sipping while wandering through the market.
39. Schuss
A Schuss isnโt a drink on its own. Rather it’s a shot of liquor added to warm drinks at the Austrian Christmas markets for an extra kick.
Itโs a common option with Glรผhwein, hot chocolate, or cider.
Popular choices include rum, amaretto, or herbal schnapps.
John tried adding amaretto to his white Glรผhwein at one market, and it was amazing!
Final Thoughts
The Austrian Christmas markets were truly a food loverโs dream.
They featured an irresistible mix of traditional favourites and unique seasonal specialties.
From sweet pastries and spiced drinks to hearty sausages and savoury snacks, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Trust me when I say, that sampling these festive foods is a fantastic way to experience Austrian culture and warm up on a chilly winter day.
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Related Posts:
- Ultimate Guide to the Vienna Christmas Markets
- Ultimate Guide to the Salzburg Christmas Markets
- Ultimate Guide to the Innsbruck Christmas Markets
- 35+ Best Austrian Christmas Market Foods You Need to Try (with FREE Checklist)
