
Authentic German Lebkuchen
Traditional German spiced Christmas cookies with honey, nuts, and a sweet glaze.
30 mins
Prep Time
12 mins
Cook Time
24
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup ground hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup candied citrus peel (chopped)
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp lemon juice
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix flour, ground almonds, ground hazelnuts, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and baking soda.
In a saucepan, gently warm honey and brown sugar until sugar dissolves. Let cool slightly.
Add the honey mixture, egg, and candied citrus peel to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for flavors to meld.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into small balls (1-inch diameter) and place on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Chef's Tips
- Resting Time: Letting the dough rest enhances the flavors and makes it easier to handle.
- Nut Variations: Use all almonds or hazelnuts if preferred.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container with a slice of apple to keep them soft.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust spices to taste—some prefer more ginger or cloves.
- Glaze Alternative: Dip cookies in melted chocolate for a richer finish.