The Germans are generally known for being more sturm and drang than sugar and spice. But the culture that created Kris Kringle can’t possibly be all that tough.

Journey to the sweet spot of the DDR at Lehr’s German Specialties in Noe Valley, a 40-year-old treasure trove of Bavarian delights. During the holidays, this mom-and-pop shop carries the biggest selection of German specialty chocolates, cakes, and treats this side of the Autobahn.

You’ll shout a hearty oom-pah-pah when faced with authentic Nürnberger Lebkuchen (glazed gingerbread cookies packed in little gold tins) and the wall of Stollen, an airy fruitcake made with almonds and spices and iced with sugar (consider it a German bûche de Noël). The chocoholic in you will go verrückt for the Mozart Kugeln. And when you’ve completely lost your fahrvergnügen, you can dive into the many chocolates filled with liqueur.

It’s an easier way to weather the holiday season than fleeing to the Black Forest.

Lehr’s German Specialties, 1581 Church Street, at 28th Street (415-282-6803).