5 desserts to make your Oktoberfest a success

Oktoberfest is a must-see event in Germany, during which millions of litres of beer are consumed and many gourmet dishes such as pretzels, knödels or weisswurst, accompanied by sauerkraut, are enjoyed. There’s plenty to satisfy your appetite — but what about dessert?

Indeed, Oktoberfest also offers a wide selection of sweet treats to complete your culinary experience. That’s why today we’re introducing 5 must-try Oktoberfest desserts to help you enjoy the festival to the fullest.

1) Apfelstrudel

Traditional Apfelstrudel Oktoberfest dessert

Originally from Central Europe, this delicately cinnamon-flavoured pastry is made from thin layers of filo pastry filled with chopped apples and dried fruit. Also known as apple strudel, this classic Oktoberfest dessert is refined, fruity and comforting.

2) Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen German gingerbread Oktoberfest

Lebkuchen is a traditional German gingerbread cake. Usually round, it is glazed on one side and coated with chocolate on the other. There are many varieties of Lebkuchen, the most famous coming from Nuremberg, featuring a wafer base covered in dark chocolate. Oktoberfest Lebkuchen is often heart-shaped, decorated with icing and baked longer, resulting in a firmer texture.

3) Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte Black Forest cake

Does this name sound familiar? It’s the famous Black Forest cake. This iconic German dessert consists of cocoa sponge cake soaked in cherry brandy, layered with whipped cream and cherries, then covered with whipped cream and finished with chocolate shavings.

4) Bavarian cream

Bavarian cream traditional Oktoberfest dessert

A classic Oktoberfest dessert, Bavarian cream is a light and creamy vanilla custard made from milk and thick cream. Similar to panna cotta, it is often served with fresh berries or berry compote.

5) Dampfnudel

Dampfnudel Bavarian Oktoberfest dessert

A must-have at Oktoberfest, Dampfnudel is a Bavarian dessert resembling a soft bread dumpling. It is steamed in milk and butter, then served with vanilla sauce and sprinkled with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

In some recipes, Dampfnudel is filled with fruit or chocolate for extra indulgence and visual appeal.

Many other traditional Oktoberfest desserts are also worth trying, such as Herzenlebkuchen, Kaiserschmarrn or Auszogene. While waiting for dessert, you can enjoy authentic Oktoberfest beers like Löwenbräu Oktoberfest or Spaten Oktoberfest.

Discover more recipes and beer pairings in our online shop, including the winning combination of Camden IPA and Smash Burger, as well as many articles on craft breweries such as Basqueland Brewing Project.

ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.