DIY Oktoberfest Catering: From Bratwurst to Pretzels

Introduction

Oktoberfest catering is something to get thinking about as Oktoberfest approaches. You may find yourself puzzling over how to create an authentic Bavarian feast at home. Did you know that this iconic festival centres around traditional food as much as it does beer?

This article unravels the mystery of German recipes and helps you stage a memorable DIY Oktoberfest catering event.

Ready for a culinary journey into Deutschland?.

Key Takeaways

Learn how to create an authentic Bavarian feast at home with traditional German recipes for appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
Get tips for hosting the best Oktoberfest party, including planning your menu and drink selection, decorating your party space in Bavarian style, and organizing fun Oktoberfest-inspired activities.
Discover mouthwatering recipes such as potato pancakes, bratwurst with sauerkraut, apple strudel, Black Forest cake, pretzel brownies, and more.

Traditional Oktoberfest Food Dishes and Recipes

Discover mouthwatering traditional German food dishes and recipes that will transport you to the heart of Oktoberfest. From appetizers and sides like potato pancakes and German cheese dip, to main courses featuring brats with sauerkraut, and indulgent desserts such as soft pretzels, this blog post has got you covered for an authentic Bavarian feast.

Appetizers and sides

Jump-start your DIY Oktoberfest catering with a host of traditional German appetisers and side dishes that effortlessly blend taste and tradition.

Potato Pancakes: These crisp, savory pancakes are a staple in any Bavarian feast, offering a warm welcome for your guests. Made from grated potatoes and onions, there's no going wrong with this classic appetiser.
Pretzel Stand: A homemade cooking idea that doubles as decor is a pretzel stand. Bake up some soft pretzels, a German food favourite, and display them on an appealing stand for easy access.
German Cheese Dip: Amp up your potato pancakes or pretzels by serving it with Obatzda - a creamy cheese spread made from Camembert or Brie, butter, beer and spices - adding an extra kick to these hearty bites.
Sauerkraut: No Oktoberfest menu would be complete without this tangy cabbage dish which is both healthy and delicious.
Sausage Platter: Whether you serve it as finger food or alongside the main courses, a variety of sausages such as Bratwurst and Weisswurst neatly arranged on a platter will impress all meat-lovers present at your party.
Apple Strudel Bites: This sweet treat turned into bite-sized snack can offer the perfect balance against the more savoury items on your menu.

Main courses

To make your DIY Oktoberfest catering a hit, be sure to include some traditional Bavarian main courses. These hearty dishes will keep your guests satisfied and give them an authentic Oktoberfest experience. Here are some mouthwatering main course options for your Oktoberfest feast:

Bratwurst Platter: Serve up delicious grilled bratwurst sausages with a side of sauerkraut and mustard. The combination of juicy bratwurst and tangy sauerkraut is a classic Oktoberfest favorite.
Sauerbraten: This slow-cooked pot roast is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, vinegar, and red wine before being roasted to perfection. Pair it with traditional German potato dumplings or spaetzle for an unforgettable main course.
Schweinshaxe: Also known as roasted pork knuckle, this dish features tender and crispy pork knuckles with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or cabbage salad. It's a must-try for meat lovers at your Oktoberfest celebration.
Wurstsalat: If you're looking for something lighter, try serving Wurstsalat, a refreshing German sausage salad made with thinly sliced sausages, onions, pickles, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It's perfect as a main course or as a side dish.
Kasespatzle: This cheesy pasta dish is similar to macaroni and cheese but with German flair. Cooked spatzle noodles are mixed with grated Emmental cheese and fried onions for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Huhnchen Schnitzel: Breaded chicken cutlets fried until golden brown make for a delicious main course option that everyone will love. Serve them alongside warm German potato salad or crispy French fries.

Desserts

When it comes to desserts for your DIY Oktoberfest catering, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Whether you're looking for traditional German treats or a unique twist on classic sweets, these desserts are sure to be a hit at your Oktoberfest party. Here are some mouthwatering dessert ideas:

Apple Strudel: This classic German dessert features flaky pastry filled with sweetened apples, raisins, and cinnamon. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of flavors.
Black Forest Cake: Indulge in layers of rich chocolate cake, cherry filling, and whipped cream. Top it off with chocolate shavings and cherries for an elegant and decadent treat.
Linzer Cookies: These buttery cookies have a jam-filled center and a delicate lattice design on top. Raspberry or apricot jam is traditionally used, but you can get creative with different flavors.
Bee Sting Cake (Bienenstich): This light yeast cake is filled with creamy custard and topped with caramelized almonds. It's the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Pretzel Brownies: Combine the best of both worlds by adding chunks of pretzels to your favorite brownie recipe. The salty pretzels complement the rich chocolate perfectly.
Berliner Pfannkuchen: These fluffy German doughnuts are similar to filled doughnuts but without the hole in the middle. Fill them with fruit jams, chocolate, or vanilla custard for a delightful treat.
Black Forest Cupcakes: Miniature versions of the iconic Black Forest Cake, these cupcakes feature moist chocolate cake topped with cherry compote and whipped cream frosting.
Streuselkuchen: This crumb-topped coffee cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as an indulgent dessert option at your Oktoberfest gathering.
Lebkuchen: These soft gingerbread cookies are spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Decorate them with icing for a festive touch.
Bavarian Cream: This velvety vanilla pudding is layered with fresh fruit and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it in individual glasses for an elegant presentation.

Check our post on regional Oktoberfest celebrations and also our entry on catering equipment needed for Oktoberfest.

Tips for Hosting the Best Oktoberfest Party

Plan your menu and drink selection carefully, decorate your party space in festive Bavarian style, and organize fun Oktoberfest-inspired activities to ensure that you host the best Oktoberfest party possible.

Planning the menu and drink selection

To host the best Oktoberfest party, careful planning of the menu and drink selection is key. Here are some tips to help you create a memorable culinary experience for your guests:

Research traditional German food dishes: Before finalizing your menu, familiarize yourself with traditional German dishes commonly enjoyed during Oktoberfest. This will give you inspiration and ensure an authentic Bavarian feast.
Create a balance between appetizers, main courses, and desserts: Plan a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Include popular Oktoberfest appetizers like pretzels and potato pancakes, hearty main courses such as brats with sauerkraut, and indulgent desserts like Black Forest cake or apple strudel.
Consider DIY cooking options: Homemade cooking adds a personal touch to your event. Opt for recipes that can be prepared in advance or cooked on-site. This not only allows you to showcase your culinary skills but also keeps guests entertained as they watch the delicious food being made.
Don't forget about vegetarian options: Ensure there are vegetarian alternatives available for non-meat eaters. Explore traditional German cheese dips or create veggie-friendly versions of popular dishes like cheese spaetzle or mushroom schnitzel.
Pair food with appropriate beer choices: Beer is an integral part of Oktoberfest celebrations. Research different beer styles and their flavor profiles to pair them effectively with the various dishes on your menu. Consider offering a range of beers from light lagers to flavorful dark brews.
Provide non-alcoholic beverage options: Not all guests may consume alcohol, so it's important to offer non-alcoholic options too. Prepare refreshing mocktails using ingredients like ginger ale, fruit juices, and fresh herbs for those who prefer them.
Double-check dietary restrictions: Before finalizing your menu, inquire about any specific dietary restrictions or allergies your guests may have. Ensure there are suitable alternatives available for those with special dietary needs.

Decorating your party space

To create the perfect Oktoberfest atmosphere, it's essential to decorate your party space in true Bavarian style. Here are some ideas to help you transform your space into a festive Oktoberfest haven:

Hang traditional Bavarian flags and banners from the walls and ceilings.
Use blue and white tablecloths to represent the colors of the Bavarian flag.
Place beer steins and beer mats as table centerpieces.
Incorporate natural elements by using wooden crates, barrels, or hay bales as rustic decorations.
Set up a pretzel stand with baskets filled with freshly baked pretzels for guests to enjoy.
Display Oktoberfest - themed posters or prints featuring traditional German landmarks or scenes.
Create a DIY photo booth area with props like oversized pretzels, lederhosen, and dirndls for guests to pose with.
Hang string lights or fairy lights around the party space for a warm and cozy ambiance.
Set up a "Beer Garden" area outside if weather permits, complete with picnic tables and benches adorned with flower arrangements.
Create a designated area for traditional Oktoberfest games like barrel rolling or stein holding contests.

Organizing fun Oktoberfest-inspired activities

To make your Oktoberfest party an unforgettable event, it's important to organize fun activities that capture the spirit of this Bavarian feast. Here are some ideas to get the party started:

Host a Stein Holding Contest: Test your guests' strength and endurance by challenging them to hold a beer stein at arm's length for as long as possible. The last person standing wins a prize.
Set up a Pretzel Toss Game: Create targets using large pretzels and have guests take turns tossing smaller pretzels to try and land them on the targets. The player with the most successful throws wins.
Plan a German Polka Dance-Off: Bring out your inner dancer and have a polka dance-off! Play traditional German polka music and award prizes for the best dancers or most enthusiastic participants.
Organize a Beer Pong Tournament: Put a twist on the classic party game by using miniature beer steins as cups instead of regular plastic ones. This adds an authentic Oktoberfest feel while keeping the competitive spirit alive.
Create a DIY Photo Booth: Set up a designated area with props such as lederhosen, dirndls, oversized beer mugs, and funny hats for guests to pose with. Provide disposable cameras or encourage guests to use their smartphones to capture memorable moments.
Have a Sausage Eating Contest: Challenge your friends to see who can eat their bratwurst or sausage the fastest without using their hands. It's messy but guaranteed to create some laughs!
Play Beer Barrel Roll Races: Divide guests into teams and have each team select one member to be their "barrel." Set up an obstacle course and have teams race against each other while rolling their "barrel" (a keg or large ball) through the course.
Offer Traditional German Games: Set up games like Hammerschlagen (nail-pounding), Schuhplattler (Bavarian folk dance), or Keg Rolling to add a touch of authenticity to your Oktoberfest celebration.

DIY Oktoberfest Party Favors

Get creative with DIY Oktoberfest party favors! From Glupperl with clothespins to Dirndl and lederhosen-wearing rubber duckies, there are plenty of fun and unique ideas to make your celebration extra special.

Don't miss out on these awesome DIY party favor ideas - click here to explore more!

Glupperl with clothespins

Glupperl with clothespins is a fun and unique DIY Oktoberfest party favor that will impress your guests. Here's how to make them:

Paint wooden clothespins in traditional Oktoberfest colors such as blue and white.
Attach small paper or cardboard cutouts of popular Oktoberfest symbols, like pretzels, beer steins, or alpine hats, to the clothespins using glue or double-sided tape.
Use the decorated clothespins to clip them onto the rims of beer glasses or hang them on a string to create a festive garland.
Guests can take home their Glupperl as a keepsake from the event.

Gingerbread heart badges

Gingerbread heart badges are a delightful addition to your DIY Oktoberfest party. These traditional German treats can be easily made at home and serve as fun party favors for your guests. Here's how to make them:

Prepare the dough by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, and an egg.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Knead the dough until smooth and then wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 - inch thickness.
Use heart - shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Use a straw or skewer to poke a hole near the top of each heart for threading ribbon later.
Bake for about 10 - 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Once cooled, decorate the gingerbread hearts with icing in various colors using piping bags or squeeze bottles.
Thread ribbon through each hole and tie it off to create wearable badges.

Oktoberfest bracelets and buttons

Oktoberfest bracelets and buttons are a great way to add some festive flair to your DIY Oktoberfest party. These accessories not only serve as fun decorations, but they can also be used as party favors for your guests to take home. Here are some ideas for Oktoberfest bracelets and buttons:

Bavarian-themed Buttons: Design custom buttons featuring traditional Bavarian symbols like pretzels, beer steins, or alpine hats. These buttons can be worn by guests during the party or used as a giveaway.
Edelweiss Bracelets: Craft DIY bracelets using edelweiss flowers, which are commonly associated with Alpine regions. You can use faux flowers or opt for fabric or paper versions. Attach the flowers to elastic bands or string for a comfortable fit.
Beer Stein Bracelets: Create cute beer stein-inspired bracelets by threading small plastic or glass beads onto wire or elastic string. Add charms shaped like beer mugs or Oktoberfest-related symbols for extra detail.
Oktoberfest Wristbands: Print out wristbands with "Oktoberfest" written on them and distribute them to your guests upon arrival. Not only will they add a touch of authenticity to your event, but they can also serve as conversation starters among attendees.
Lederhosen Cufflinks: For a unique twist, make mini lederhosen-themed cufflinks using felt or fabric scraps and glue them onto metal cufflink bases. These can be worn by male guests who want to embrace the traditional Oktoberfest fashion.
Pretzel-shaped Buttons: Cut out pretzel shapes from felt or foam sheets and attach pin backs to create cute pretzel buttons that can be pinned onto clothing or bags.

Dirndl and lederhosen-wearing rubber duckies

Rubber duckies dressed in traditional Oktoberfest attire will add a fun and festive touch to your DIY Oktoberfest party. These adorable little ducks can be used as decorations or even party favors for your guests. Here are some ways you can incorporate dirndl and lederhosen-wearing rubber duckies into your Oktoberfest celebration:

Place them on tables: Use the rubber duckies as table centerpieces by placing them in baskets filled with hay or wheatgrass. Surround them with mini beer steins, pretzels, or other Oktoberfest-themed items.
Float them in drinks: Clean the rubber duckies thoroughly and place them in clean water-filled jars or mugs. Add a few drops of food-safe dye to the water to make it look like beer. This playful touch will certainly entertain your guests.
Create a "duck pond" game: Fill a small inflatable pool with water and scatter the rubber duckies inside. Guests can take turns fishing out the ducks using a small net or fishing rod. You can even have prizes for those who catch the most ducks.
Use them as photo props: Set up a photo booth area with a backdrop that resembles an Oktoberfest scene, complete with beer barrels and Bavarian flags. Encourage guests to pose with the rubber duckies while wearing their own dirndls and lederhosen for some memorable pictures.

Perfecting Your Oktoberfest Outfit

If you're hosting an Oktoberfest party, it's not just about the food and drinks. The perfect outfit can really set the mood and transport your guests to Germany. When it comes to dressing for Oktoberfest, traditional Bavarian attire is the way to go.

For men, this means lederhosen - those iconic shorts made of leather. Pair them with a checkered shirt or a white button-down and don't forget the suspenders! Complete the look with knee-high socks and sturdy shoes.

Ladies, on the other hand, should opt for a dirndl dress. This beautiful ensemble consists of a bodice, blouse, full skirt, and an apron tied at the waist. As for accessories, consider adding a pretty hat or headband adorned with feathers or flowers.

To ensure your Oktoberfest outfit is authentic, remember these key details: first, choose traditional colors like greens or blues for your dirndl; secondly make sure that your lederhosen are fitted properly - they should be snug but comfortable; thirdly don't forget to accessorize with alpine-themed jewelry such as edelweiss earrings or bracelets.

By putting effort into perfecting your Oktoberfest outfit, you'll not only feel part of the festivities yourself but also encourage your guests to embrace their inner Bavarians. So dust off those lederhosen and pull out that dirndl - it's time to get ready for an unforgettable celebration!

Conclusion

In conclusion, hosting your own DIY Oktoberfest party can be a truly memorable event. By following these tips and recipes, you can create a Bavarian feast that will transport your guests straight to Germany.

From traditional dishes like brats with sauerkraut to homemade pretzels and German cheese dip, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your friends, don your Oktoberfest outfits, and get ready for a fall party filled with delicious food, fun games, and plenty of laughter.

Prost!

FAQs

1. What are some traditional Oktoberfest dishes I can serve at my DIY catering event?

Some traditional Oktoberfest dishes you can serve include bratwurst sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut, schnitzel, and apple strudel.

2. How can I prepare a large quantity of food for an Oktoberfest party?

To prepare a large quantity of food for an Oktoberfest party, plan ahead and make use of batch cooking techniques. Prepare certain dishes in advance and consider using buffet-style serving to accommodate a larger number of guests.

3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options that can be included in the menu?

Yes! You can offer vegetarian or vegan alternatives such as veggie sausages made from plant-based ingredients, stuffed mushrooms, roasted vegetables with herbs, salads with homemade dressings using locally sourced produce.

4. Can you provide tips for pairing beer with my DIY Oktoberfest menu?

Certainly! When it comes to beer pairings for your Oktoberfest menu, opt for authentic German beers such as Märzen/Oktoberfestbier or Dunkel styles to complement the hearty flavors of your dishes. Remember to offer non-alcoholic alternatives like alcohol-free wheat beers or craft sodas for those who do not consume alcohol.