Berliner (Pfannkuchen)
"The Berliner (called 'Pfannkuchen' in Berlin, confusingly) is a jelly-filled donut: deep-fried dough dusted with powdered sugar and filled with jam (usually raspberry or plum). It's soft, sweet, and iconic. Famous from JFK's 1963 speech ('Ich bin ein Berliner') which technically translates to 'I am a jelly donut' though this interpretation is debated. Sold at bakeries year-round but especially popular during Fasching (carnival season)."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Sweet, nostalgic
Duration
Quick bite
Best For
Snacking
The Backstory
The Berliner/Pfannkuchen dates back to the 1700s in Germany. The name varies by region—Berliners call it 'Pfannkuchen' (pancake), while the rest of Germany calls it 'Berliner.' JFK's 1963 'Ich bin ein Berliner' speech made the donut internationally famous. It's traditional carnival food, especially on Fat Tuesday (Rosenmontag).
Local Secret
"Buy from traditional bakeries (Bäckerei), not supermarkets—the quality difference is massive. The donut should be light and airy inside, not dense. Raspberry jam is most common, but plum (Pflaumenmus) is traditional. Eat it fresh the day it's made. During carnival season (February-March), bakeries make special versions with different fillings."