Traditional Lebkuchen – German Spice Cookies

Lebkuchen: A Yuletide Delicacy

Dive into the heart of German baking with our Traditional Lebkuchen cookies, a confection that has adorned Yuletide tables for centuries. These cookies, steeped in history and tradition, are not just a treat but a celebration of the festive spirit.

The Essence of Christmas in Every Bite

Infused with a melange of spices and the richness of molasses, these cookies are a tapestry of flavors that are quintessentially Christmas. The enticing aroma as they bake is a prelude to the joy these treats bring, making them a cherished part of the holiday season.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour, for a sturdy yet tender crumb
1 teaspoon baking powder, for rise
1/2 teaspoon baking soda, for leavening
1/4 teaspoon salt, to enhance the flavors
1 tablespoon ground ginger, for a warm kick
1 3/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, for sweet warmth
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, for depth
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, for spiciness
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, for richness
3/4 cup brown sugar, for a hint of caramel
1 large egg, to bind the dough
1/2 cup molasses, for robust sweetness
2 teaspoons vanilla extract, for aroma
1 teaspoon lemon zest, for brightness

For the Icing:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar, for sweetness
2-3 tablespoons milk, for consistency

Baking Directions

Crafting the Flavor:

Spice Mixture: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until well combined, setting the stage for flavor.
Creaming Process: In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then molasses, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, creating a fragrant wet mix.
Dough Formation: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mix, forming a cohesive dough.

Preparing for Baking:

Chill: Divide the dough in half, wrap it up, and chill for at least 2 hours to let the flavors marry.
Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shaping: Roll out the dough on a floured surface, cut into shapes, and bake until just firm.
Cooling: Let the cookies cool slightly before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.

The Finishing Touch:

Icing: Whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk and drizzle over the cookies. Allow the icing to set before serving.

Nutritional Information

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
Calories: Approximately 160 kcal per cookie
Servings: 24 cookies

Presentation Suggestion

Serve these Lebkuchen on a festive platter, perhaps alongside a steaming mug of Glühwein, for a truly German Christmas experience. This pairing not only enhances the flavors but also brings a slice of German tradition to your table.