Krapfen
The German word for donut is Krapfen.
The term refers to a fried dough confection, often shaped like a ring or a filled ball.
Which one should you use?
While Krapfen and Berliner refer to traditional filled dough balls, the word Donut (borrowed from English) specifically refers to the ring-shaped variety.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Southern Germany and Austria, Krapfen is the standard term. In Berlin and Eastern Germany, a donut is referred to as Pfannkuchen.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word Krapfen is used for both the singular and the plural forms.
Did you know?
- Traditional Krapfen are often judged by the Krapfenring, a pale white ring around the center that proves the dough was light enough to float face-up in the oil.
- In Berlin, ordering a Pfannkuchen will get you a donut, but in other parts of Germany, a Pfannkuchen is a thin pancake similar to a crêpe.
- The word Krapfen shares an unexpected historical root with the English word 'grape'.
Examples in context
- Ich würde gerne einen Donut bestellen.I would like to order a donut.
- Lass uns ein paar Berliner bei der Bäckerei kaufen.Let's buy some donuts at the bakery.
- Ich esse unglaublich gerne Krapfen.I absolutely love eating donuts.
- Ich möchte einen Krapfen essen.I want to eat a donut.
- Der Krapfen schmeckt sehr süß.The donut tastes very sweet.
- Hast du einen Krapfen für mich?Do you have a donut for me?
Example conversation
Julia and Lukas are at a bakery in the morning.
- JuliaSiehst du diesen Krapfen dort?Do you see that donut there?
- LukasJa, der sieht toll aus, Julia.Yes, that looks great, Julia.
- JuliaSoll ich zwei Stück kaufen?Should I buy two pieces?
- LukasJa, bitte, ich habe Hunger.Yes, please, I am hungry.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Krapfen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
