Lebkuchen Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it’s a delightful blend of warm spices and honey, giving each cookie a comforting, nostalgic vibe that just screams cozy afternoons. Plus, the addition of candied citron and lemon zest adds this unexpected zesty twist, making every bite incredibly unique and exciting!

Making Lebkuchen is a labor of love for me. Its aromatic spices like chilies, cloves, and nutmeg, combined with sweet honey and brown sugar, give this classic gingerbread a warm and comforting taste.

The finely chopped candied citron and almonds provide texture, while a hint of lemon zest brightens the rich flavors.

Ingredients

Honey:
Sweetener derived from nature; abundant with antioxidants; contributes moisture.

Almonds:
Source of protein and healthy fats; contributes to texture.

Baking Soda:
Raising agent; aids in the rising of dough.

Brown Sugar:
Contributes sweetness and caramel flavor; improves texture.

Cinnamon:
Yields heat and flavor; high in antioxidants.

Lemon Zest:
Imparts a bright, citrusy note; uplifts flavor balance.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup honey
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped candied citron
• 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to start. Get a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.

2. In a sizable bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

3. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the honey and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely, and then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly.

4. When the honey mixture has cooled, add the egg and mix well.

5. Combine the chopped candied citron, chopped almonds, and lemon zest until evenly mixed.

6. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the honey mixture, blending them until a thick dough forms.

7. Place the dough onto a surface that has been lightly dusted with flour. Knead the dough. Do this until it is smooth.

8. Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into desired shapes, after rolling it to about 1/4 inch thickness.

9. Position the cookies on the baking sheet that has been prepared, and space them about 1 inch apart.

10. Cooking takes about 10-12 minutes, or until just beginning to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the sheet for a few minutes; then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Medium-sized saucepan
6. Spoon or spatula for stirring
7. Measuring cups
8. Measuring spoons
9. Whisk
10. Flour sifter or sieve (optional)
11. Cutting board
12. Knife for chopping
13. Grater (for lemon zest)
14. Rolling pin
15. Cookie cutters
16. Cooling rack
17. Surface for kneading dough

FAQ

• What is Lebkuchen?A spiced cookie that is very like gingerbread is a traditional German holiday treat known as Lebkuchen.
• Can I substitute the candied citron?Certainly, you can use candied orange peel or candied ginger in place of candied citron.
• Is it necessary to use honey in this recipe?Lebkuchen is traditional and honey, and adds a distinct flavor and moisture, but you can substitute it with either maple syrup or agave nectar if necessary.
• Do I need to chill the dough before baking?Indeed, for optimum results, it’s advisable to chill the dough for a minimum of 2 hours. This assists with the development of flavor and makes the dough easier to work with.
• How long do Lebkuchen cookies last?Lebkuchen can last some time and can even improve in flavor over time, but only if they’re stored the right way. To get the most out of your Lebkuchen, keep it in an airtight container.
• Can I add other spices?Certainly! You’re welcome to modify the spices to suit your palate. Some people enjoy adding ginger or cardamom to provide extra flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for the ground allspice.
1/4 cup finely chopped orange peel in place of candied citron
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts in place of almonds
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest, not lemon zest
Three-fourths cup granulated sugar combined with two tablespoons of molasses in place of brown sugar

Pro Tips

1. Spice Enhancement For a deeper flavor profile, try toasting the spices (cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg) in a dry pan over low heat for a few minutes until aromatic before mixing them with the flour.

2. Nutty Toast Enhance the flavor of the almonds by lightly toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown before chopping them.

3. Chill Time After kneading the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out and cut into shapes, as well as help the flavors meld together.

4. Consistent Thickness Use rolling pin guides or two parallel wooden dowels of the same thickness on either side of the dough to achieve an even 1/4-inch cookie thickness. This ensures even baking.

5. Flavor Infusion Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cardamom to the honey mixture for an additional layer of flavor that complements the spices and citrus notes.