Lebkuchen – German Christmas Cookies

Lebkuchen, sometimes known as pfefferkuchen, is Germany’s delightful twist on gingerbread—a cherished holiday treat that has been warming hearts since the 13th century. These cookies are sweet and bursting with spices, offering a comforting brightness in the dark winter months, yet they’re so delicious that you’ll want them all year round. Unlike traditional gingerbread, Lebkuchen is softer, with hints of orange and lemon, topped with a sweet, hard glaze that adds a satisfying snap.

While many versions of Lebkuchen are made with molasses and some include ground almonds or spices like coriander or cardamom, others even add candied fruit. However, honey is a staple in nearly all variations, so much so that it was originally called honey cake.”

Our simplified version uses almond extract for flavor instead of ground almonds. Dark brown sugar brings a molasses-like depth, while ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice create a warm and inviting spice profile. These cookies are easy to make as drop cookies and should be removed from the oven while they’re still soft. To maintain their softness, store them in an airtight container with a slice of apple or orange peel. The moisture from the fruit helps achieve their signature texture, so consider making them a day ahead to let them soften overnight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lebkuchen recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and simplicity. The combination of spices, citrus zest, and almond extract creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. They’re easy to make and bring the festive spirit of German Christmas markets right into your kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Small saucepan
• Whisk

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking sheet. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine honey, brown sugar, butter, eggs, lemon and orange zest, and almond extract until well mixed.
3. Add baking powder, baking soda, flour, and spices to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should remain soft.
5. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze.
6. In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil, letting it boil for one minute. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar.
7. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies in the glaze and allow them to cool completely before serving.
8. Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of apple or orange peel to keep them soft.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to measure your spices accurately for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft when you remove them from the oven.
• Allow the glaze to set completely before storing to prevent sticking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped almonds to the dough.
• Try substituting maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Lebkuchen contains approximately:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How long will Lebkuchen cookies stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container with a slice of apple or orange peel, these cookies can stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Can I freeze Lebkuchen?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Lebkuchen is a cherished holiday treat that brings a touch of German tradition to your home. These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends, and their delightful flavors are sure to become a holiday favorite. Give them a try, and let us know how they turn out! We’d love to hear about your baking adventures in the comments below.