30 German Easter Recipes Perfect for Your Holiday Feast!
German Easter recipes are right around the corner, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share these incredible dishes that’ll make your holiday celebration extra special. These traditional dishes bring together the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that German cuisine is famous for. Trust me, your guests won’t be able to resist.
I’ve gathered 30 amazing recipes that represent the best of German holiday cuisine. You’ll find delightful breakfast options, stunning main courses, and irresistible desserts that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? These recipes are totally doable in your home kitchen!
Each recipe comes with clear, step-by-step instructions that’ll help you nail every dish. I’m talking about traditional favorites that have been passed down through generations. You’re going to love how these recipes bring that perfect touch of European charm to your Easter table!
Bread and Pastries Recipes
1. Cherry Streusel Pastries (German Kirschtaler)
Who can resist the sweet combination of juicy cherries and buttery crumble? These golden pastries have a crisp, sugary streusel topping that perfectly balances their soft, fluffy texture. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, and they’ll be the star of any Easter brunch or an afternoon coffee break.
2. Classic Semmelknödel
Few things are as satisfying as a plate of soft, pillowy bread dumplings soaking up a rich sauce. Made with simple ingredients like day-old bread, eggs, and milk, they turn basic pantry staples into a comforting dish. For the best texture, let them rest before cooking and serve them with a hearty roast—perfect for a cozy Easter feast.
3. Osterbrot
This golden Easter bread isn’t just a treat—it’s a tradition! Lightly sweet with hints of citrus and soft raisins inside, it has a fluffy texture that makes every bite delightful. Slice it fresh with a pat of butter, or toast it the next day for an even richer flavor—either way, it’s a must-have for spring celebrations!.
4. German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)
Imagine biting into a soft, cinnamon-kissed cake filled with juicy apple slices—pure comfort in every bite. This classic German dessert is simple yet full of flavor, with a tender crumb and a slightly crisp sugar topping. Let it sit overnight to enhance the flavors, or serve it warm with whipped cream for the perfect Easter dessert.
5. German Braided Easter Bread (Hefezopf)
Nothing says Easter morning like the sight (and smell!) of a freshly baked Hefezopf. This beautifully braided bread has a soft, airy crumb with a touch of sweetness, perfect for spreading with butter and jam. Brush it with melted butter while still warm for an extra indulgent finish—it’s a showstopper on any holiday table.
Chicken Recipes
6. Coq au Riesling (Chicken braised in Riesling)
Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this dish takes tender chicken and slow-braises it in white wine, mushrooms, and herbs. The Riesling adds a slight sweetness, balancing the deep, savory sauce beautifully. Serve it with crusty bread or buttery noodles to soak up every last drop—perfect for a relaxed Easter dinner!
7. Chicken Fricassee
This creamy, comforting dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Tender chicken is simmered in a velvety white sauce with mushrooms, peas, and a hint of lemon for brightness. Pair it with rice or potatoes for a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for Easter or any cozy gathering.
8. Chicken Paprikash
Love bold flavors? This Hungarian-inspired dish features juicy chicken coated in a rich, smoky paprika sauce that’s both comforting and full of depth. For the most authentic taste, use high-quality sweet paprika and serve it with buttered egg noodles or dumplings—great for a festive springtime dinner.
9. Gefüllte Hähnchenbrust (Low Carb)
This stuffed chicken breast is light yet packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a balanced Easter meal. Filled with creamy cheese, herbs, and fresh spinach, it bakes to juicy perfection with a golden, crispy finish. Serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a satisfying, low-carb feast.
10. Backhendl
Crispy, golden, and irresistibly delicious, this Austrian-style fried chicken is a must-try. The secret to its incredible crunch is coating the chicken in fine breadcrumbs before frying it to perfection. Serve it with potato salad and a lemon wedge for a simple yet festive Easter dish that everyone will love.
Pork Recipes
11. German Pork Roast Bavarian Style (Schweinebraten)
This slow-roasted pork is all about deep, rich flavors and a beautifully crisp crust. Marinated with garlic, caraway, and mustard, it roasts until tender, with its juices creating the perfect gravy. Serve it with potato dumplings and red cabbage for a true Bavarian-style Easter feast.
12. Kasseler mit Sauerkraut
Smoky, juicy, and packed with bold flavors, this cured pork dish pairs perfectly with tangy sauerkraut. The slow simmering process keeps the meat tender while allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rye bread for a simple yet satisfying holiday meal.
13. Schweinsfilet im Teig
Looking for an impressive Easter main dish? This pork tenderloin is wrapped in flaky pastry and baked to golden perfection, sealing in all the juices. Slice it at the table to reveal the tender, flavorful meat inside—best enjoyed with a creamy mustard sauce and roasted vegetables.
14. One-Pan Schweinekotelett mit Äpfeln
Sweet and savory come together in this easy one-pan dish featuring juicy pork chops and caramelized apples. The apples add a natural sweetness that balances the rich, seared meat, creating a beautifully layered flavor. Serve it straight from the pan with mashed potatoes or crusty bread—perfect for a no-fuss Easter dinner.
15. Schinken in Brotteig
A true showstopper, this dish features ham wrapped in freshly baked bread, creating a crisp, golden crust around the smoky, juicy meat. The bread soaks up all the delicious flavors, making every bite irresistible. Slice it warm and serve with mustard and pickles for a rustic, crowd-pleasing Easter dish.
Beef Recipes
16. German Beef Rouladen
Thinly sliced beef is rolled up with mustard, bacon, onions, and pickles, then slowly braised until tender and packed with flavor. The rich gravy that forms during cooking is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or dumplings. This hearty dish is a must-have for an Easter feast that feels both comforting and special.
17. Sauerbraten
This traditional German pot roast is marinated for days in vinegar, spices, and herbs, creating a deep, tangy flavor. Slow-cooked until fork-tender, it pairs beautifully with red cabbage and potato dumplings. Let it rest before slicing to soak up all the rich juices—an Easter meal that’s worth the wait.
18. Classic Goulash
Warm, hearty, and full of rich paprika flavor, this slow-cooked beef stew is the definition of comfort food. The tender beef and thick, flavorful sauce make it perfect for serving over egg noodles or crusty bread. Simmer it low and slow for the best taste—ideal for a cozy Easter gathering.
19. Beef Goulash with Red Wine
This version of goulash takes things up a notch with a deep, velvety sauce enhanced by red wine. The slow braising process allows the beef to soak in all the rich, savory flavors, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Serve it with buttered potatoes or spaetzle for a meal that feels both rustic and elegant.
20. Rinderbraten
A classic German-style pot roast, this dish features beef roasted to perfection in a flavorful broth with onions, carrots, and a hint of red wine. The result is a fork-tender meat that pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Let the roast rest before slicing for maximum juiciness—perfect for a special Easter dinner.
Seafood Recipes
21. Forelle Müllerin Art
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this pan-fried trout is coated in flour and browned in butter for a rich, nutty flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon brings out its delicate taste, making it a light yet satisfying Easter dish. Serve it with boiled potatoes and a crisp salad for a simple but elegant meal.
22. Gebratener Zander
Golden and flaky, this pan-seared pike-perch has a delicate, mild taste that pairs well with buttery sauces. Cooking it in a hot pan with just a little oil ensures a crispy skin while keeping the inside perfectly tender. Enjoy it with steamed vegetables or a light white wine sauce for a refined Easter dish.
23. Matjes nach Hausfrauenart
This refreshing dish features pickled herring in a creamy sauce made with onions, apples, and sour cream, creating the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. It’s best served chilled with boiled potatoes or dark rye bread for a light yet flavorful Easter appetizer. Let it sit for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
24. Seelachsfilet mit Senfsauce
Mild pollock fillets meet a rich, tangy mustard sauce in this simple but flavorful dish. The creamy sauce gives the fish a bold kick, making it a standout choice for an Easter seafood option. Serve it with buttered potatoes or steamed asparagus for a meal that’s both comforting and refined.
25. Lachs im Blätterteig
Flaky salmon wrapped in golden, buttery puff pastry—this dish is as impressive as it is delicious. The pastry locks in all the juices, keeping the fish moist while adding a crispy, rich texture. Slice it fresh out of the oven and serve with a light dill sauce for a stunning Easter centerpiece.
26. Kartoffelsalat
This classic German potato salad is tangy, savory, and full of flavor, thanks to a warm dressing made with vinegar, mustard, and bacon. The key is letting the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors before serving. It’s a perfect side dish for Easter, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or grilled sausages.
27. Rotkohl
Sweet, tangy, and beautifully vibrant, this braised red cabbage is a must-have for a traditional German feast. Slow-cooked with apples, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, it develops a rich, deep flavor. Serve it warm alongside pork or beef dishes for a colorful and delicious Easter spread.
28. Spargel mit Hollandaise
Springtime means asparagus season, and this dish highlights the tender spears with a rich and silky hollandaise sauce. The secret to perfect asparagus is cooking it just until tender, keeping it bright green and full of flavor. Pair it with roasted meats or salmon for an elegant Easter side!
29. Rahmspinat
Creamy, smooth, and packed with flavor, this German-style creamed spinach is a fantastic way to add greens to your Easter table. A touch of garlic and nutmeg enhances the dish, making it a perfect complement to meats like schnitzel or roast pork. Serve it warm with a spoonful of butter for extra richness.
30. Kohlrabi and Potato Gratin
Layers of tender kohlrabi and potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce—this gratin is pure comfort in every bite. The mild sweetness of kohlrabi pairs beautifully with the richness of melted cheese and cream. Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve as a hearty side dish for an Easter feast.
Conclusion
What an incredible feast we’ve explored together! These time-honored recipes are sure to make your Easter celebration truly unforgettable. I’m seriously obsessed with how each dish brings its own special magic to the holiday table, and I just know your family will feel the same way.
The beauty of these traditional recipes lies in their ability to create lasting memories. There’s something so special about gathering around a table filled with homemade dishes that carry generations of love and tradition. Trust me, once you start cooking these classics, they’ll become part of your own family’s Easter tradition.
I’d love to hear which recipes you decide to try first! Share your cooking adventures in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your Easter feast photos on social media. Let’s inspire each other to keep these beautiful German Easter traditions alive in our own unique ways.