Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

Lebkuchen are classic German spice cookies that taste like the holidays in every bite — warm, soft, and aromatic with honey, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Often described as a cross between gingerbread and spice cake, they’re a festive treat that dates back to medieval times and are especially popular during Christmas in Germany.

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🎄🇩🇪 Traditional Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

✅ Soft & chewy with rich spice

✅ Great for holiday gifting or cookie swaps

✅ Even better after a few days (they age beautifully!)

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🧁 Ingredients (Makes about 2 dozen)

Dry Ingredients:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp ground allspice

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ tsp ground ginger

• Pinch of black pepper (optional for warmth)

Wet Ingredients:

• ¾ cup honey

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 large egg

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 orange or lemon

Add-ins (optional but traditional):

• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds or hazelnuts)

• ½ cup candied citrus peel or raisins

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🍬 Optional Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp milk or lemon juice
  Or dip in melted chocolate instead!

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Warm the honey mixture:

   • In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, and butter. Heat gently until melted and combined. Cool slightly.

2. Make the dough:

   • In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and all spices.

   • Stir in the cooled honey mixture, egg, vanilla, zest, and any optional add-ins.

   • Mix until a thick, sticky dough forms.

3. Chill:

   • Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (this deepens the flavor and makes it easier to work with).

4. Shape & Bake:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

   • Scoop dough into balls (about 1–2 tablespoons each) and flatten slightly.

   • Bake for 10–12 minutes until set but still soft — don’t overbake!

5. Glaze (optional):

   • While warm, brush with glaze or let cool and dip in melted chocolate.

   • Let dry before storing.

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🥄 Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temp.

• Improves with age — let sit for a day or two to soften and let flavors meld.

• Lasts up to 2 weeks — or freeze for longer storage.

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💡 Variations:

• Add ground cardamom or a dash of rum to the dough for a Bavarian twist

• Use rye flour or almond flour for a more traditional texture

• Make them vegan with maple syrup and a flax egg

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Would you like a printable gift tag template, a gluten-free version, or a history of Lebkuchen’s origins for a festive write-up?