5 German Christmas treats that are more sinful than you probably thought

Every year, Germans drink about 40 million liters of this spiced beverage. Not only does the tasty mixture of red wine, sugar and spices combine to give drinkers a buzz, it also helps to put on the pounds. Each glass contains about 210 calories. Pouring in a shot of schnapps adds an extra 50.

It may look harmless, but it’s actually quite dangerous for calorie-counters. This Christmas bread has more than its fair share of butter, so eat with caution and be prepared to gobble up 400 calories with every delicious piece. This is probably why most people don’t eat more than two pieces.

Germans love this Christmas treat almost more than the holiday itself. For over 500 years, gingerbread from Nuremberg has been made of flour, sugar, butter, honey and spices for a total of 420 calories per 100 grams. The spices are said to have a soothing effect on the stomach, so in some regions, it's called “stomach bread.”

When it comes to sweets sold at Christmas markets, these little ones are an absolute classic. They're not only bad for your teeth though, but also tough on your figure. Caramelized with pure sugar in a large kettle, the almonds chalk up 500 calories per 100 grams.

Christmas just wouldn’t be possible without them. For around 200 years, Germans have delighted in eating chocolates in the shape of jolly old St. Nick. Each year, 140 million of these Christmas figures are produced and over one-third of them exported. The fattening potential of these seemingly harmless chocolate men is off the charts: 536 calories per 100 grams.