Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

INGREDENT

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground allspice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (almonds or hazelnuts)
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped candied citrus peel

Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, and molasses until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, beat until well combined.
  4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
  5. Fold in the nuts and candied peel (if using).
  6. Scoop tablespoons of dough and shape into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and slightly firm.
  8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with milk/lemon juice until smooth. Brush over warm cookies if desired.
  10. Allow glaze to set before storing cookies in an airtight container.

Let me know if you’d like a no-egg or gluten-free version!

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