The Magic of Hiking, Kaiserschmarren, and Germknödel
Hello, I’m Claudia, and today, I want to share with you the magic of Alpine culture—one of the things I hold closest to my heart. Growing up in Austria, I was surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes, fresh alpine air, and delicious food. Whether it was hiking in the summer or enjoying the winter snow, there was always something special about the connection between the mountains and the food we ate. It’s a feeling that stays with me, no matter where I am in the world.
Hiking to the Top of the Mountain: A Tradition of the Alps In Austria, hiking is a way of life. The majestic Alps are a natural playground for Austrians. Hiking offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, to breathe in the crisp mountain air, and to immerse ourselves in nature. Whether it’s a gentle walk or a challenging climb, there’s something deeply peaceful about being on a mountain, surrounded by nothing but towering peaks and wide open skies.
But what makes hiking in the Alps even more special? The food, of course! After a long hike, nothing beats sitting down in a traditional "Hütte" (mountain hut) for a hearty meal, enjoying the warmth and comfort of the rustic surroundings, and taking in the breathtaking views. It’s one of the best parts of Alpine culture—whether you’ve just reached the summit or you’re resting halfway up, there’s always an excuse for a delicious break.
Kaiserschmarren and Germknödel: Alpine Comfort Food One of the highlights of hiking in the Alps is enjoying a traditional dish at a mountain hut. Two of the most iconic Austrian treats that are perfect for refueling after a hike are Kaiserschmarren and Germknödel.
Kaiserschmarren is a fluffy, shredded pancake, often served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fruit compote. It’s light, indulgent, and utterly comforting. Legend has it that it was created for Emperor Franz Joseph I, who loved the dish so much that it became a staple at mountain huts across Austria. There’s something about enjoying a warm plate of Kaiserschmarren with a view of the Alps that makes it taste even better.
Another favorite is Germknödel, a steamed yeast dumpling filled with plum jam, served with melted butter and powdered sugar. The rich sweetness of the plum jam combined with the soft, fluffy dumpling makes it the perfect treat for any mountain adventurer. Both dishes are simple, delicious, and reflect the hearty, comforting nature of Austrian cuisine.
Winter in the Alps: Skiing and Snow, But Not for Me In winter, the mountains take on a whole new character. The crisp, fresh air, the sound of snow crunching underfoot, and the powdery white landscapes create a winter wonderland. Most Austrians flock to the slopes for skiing, but I’m not one of them. While I love seeing the snow-covered peaks and enjoying the beauty of winter, I prefer to take in the view from a cozy spot rather than from the top of a ski hill.
One of my most memorable trips was to Kaprun, one of the largest mountains in Austria, when I was seven months pregnant. We visited in the winter, and the snow was absolutely stunning. We didn’t ski, but we spent our time soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, enjoying the crisp mountain air, and of course, indulging in the delicious food at the local hut. The peacefulness of the mountains combined with a warm plate of Kaiserschmarren and a hot cup of tea—it was the perfect winter experience.
The Magic of Alpine Culture Whether it’s hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, the Alps have a special place in the hearts of Austrians. It’s about more than just the outdoor activities—it’s about connecting with nature, enjoying the company of friends and family, and savoring the simple pleasures of life, like good food and great views.
For me, Alpine culture is all about embracing the outdoors, taking in the beauty of the mountains, and of course, sharing a meal with loved ones. Whether you’re conquering the slopes or just soaking in the scenery, there’s always time to enjoy a traditional dish like Kaiserschmarren or Germknödel. It’s these moments—surrounded by nature, enjoying great food, and taking in the view—that truly make the Alps feel like home.
I invite you to experience a taste of the Alps in your own kitchen by trying out some of these traditional Austrian recipes. And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll be enjoying your Kaiserschmarren or Germknödel from a mountain hut with a stunning view of the Alps, just like I did.
Let’s bring a little piece of Alpine culture into your kitchen, no skiing required!
