Description
Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies) are traditional holiday treats bursting with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. With a rich honey sweetness and a soft, tender texture, these cookies are perfect for Christmas baking. Glazed with a simple powdered sugar coating, they are both festive and delicious. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or gifting them, these German spice cookies will quickly become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup honey
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts
1/4 cup chopped candied orange or lemon peel
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons water or lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, heat the honey and brown sugar over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey mixture with the egg. Gradually add the dry ingredients, followed by the chopped nuts and candied peel. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each slightly with your fingers.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of water or lemon juice until smooth. Brush the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Notes
Chilling the dough is essential to achieve the right texture.
Feel free to substitute candied peel with dried fruit or zest for a different twist.
For a lighter glaze, use lemon juice instead of water.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Cookies Holiday Baking Christmas Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie