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Lebkuchen Cookies

Lebkuchen Cookies

Lebkuchen Cookies are traditional German spiced cookies that are especially popular during the Christmas season. They’re often made with a mix of nuts, honey, and a blend of warm spices, and can be decorated with icing or chocolate. Here’s a classic recipe for making Lebkuchen:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) candied citrus peel, finely chopped (optional)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp lemon juice or water
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For Decoration (Optional):

  • Colored sprinkles or nonpareils
  • Chopped nuts

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a small saucepan, combine honey, granulated sugar, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar and butter are fully melted and combined. Let the mixture cool slightly.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices.
    • Add the slightly cooled honey mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.
    • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
    • Stir in the chopped nuts and candied citrus peel, if using.
    • Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. Shape the Cookies:
    • Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness.
    • Cut out shapes using cookie cutters or a knife. Transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and lightly golden.
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Glaze and Decorate:
    • For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice or water until smooth and spreadable. You can add vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
    • Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or drizzle the glaze over them.
    • Decorate with sprinkles, nonpareils, or chopped nuts if desired.

       Storage:

Lebkuchen cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They often improve in flavor after a day or two as the spices meld.

Enjoy your homemade Lebkuchen cookies! They’re perfect for holiday celebrations or as a special treat any time of year.

 

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