Lebkuchen German Spice Cookies

Name: Lebkuchen German Spice Cookies
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 12 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: ½ cup honey; 1 cup dark brown sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes); 1 large egg (beaten); 2 tsp lemon zest; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ground almonds; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp fine sea salt; ½ tsp ground allspice; ½ tsp ground ginger; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp grated nutmeg; 1 cup powdered sugar; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp rum (optional)

By:

Marry

Published:

November 26, 2025

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Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies) are more than just cookies; they are a warm embrace on a plate. The aroma of spices fills your kitchen as they bake, making it a holiday staple that takes you back to cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. This traditional German treat is incredibly easy to whip up, and the result is a soft, fragrant cookie that’s perfect with a warm beverage any time of year. Imagine taking a bite and tasting the sweet blend of honey, brown sugar, and spices that truly embodies the spirit of holidays. The process, involving resting time for the dough, allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Trust me, once you make these Lebkuchen, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Why This Recipe Works

Lebkuchen, a traditional German treat, combines a unique blend of spices with the sweetness of honey and brown sugar, creating a cookie that’s both fragrant and flavorful. The resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that each bite delivers an authentic taste of the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

These delightful cookies are not just for Christmas; their warm spices, soft texture, and sweet glaze make them a year-round favorite. Whether you’re sharing them with family during the holidays or enjoying them with a cup of tea, Lebkuchen is sure to bring joy and comfort to your table.

Ingredients for Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

½ cup honey
1 cup dark brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
1 large egg (beaten)
2 tsp lemon zest
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almonds
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp fine sea salt
½ tsp ground allspice
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp grated nutmeg
1 cup powdered sugar
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp rum (optional)

Preparing the Dough for Lebkuchen

Mix Honey and Sugar

First, grab a glass bowl and mix the honey with the dark brown sugar. Pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds until the sugar dissolves. Stir it well; if you still see sugar granules, heat it for another 15 to 30 seconds.

Incorporate Butter and Zest

Once the sugar’s dissolved, toss in the cubed unsalted butter along with the lemon zest. Stir until the butter completely melts into the mixture, allowing the flavors to blend.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, introduce the dry ingredients. Stir in the baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, ground cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Then, add the beaten egg and mix thoroughly.

Add Flour and Almonds

Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and ground almonds until a soft, slightly sticky dough comes together. If it feels a bit dry, a splash of lemon juice can help, but don’t overdo it.

Let the Dough Rest

After that, spray your hands with cooking spray and mold the dough into a ball. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest for at least an hour. If you can wait overnight, that’s even better!

Baking the Lebkuchen

Preheat the Oven

While the dough rests, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the dough is.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, the juice of 1 lemon, and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until you reach a nice, thin glaze that’ll give the cookies a beautiful finish.

Shape and Roll the Dough

When your dough is ready, divide it into thirds. On a silicone baking mat, roll each piece out to about ¾ inch thick. Then, cut out circles or any shape you fancy using a cookie cutter.

Bake the Cookies

Place the cut-out cookies on the silicone mat with a little space between them. Bake for about 12 minutes. If you have dough scraps, gather, re-roll, and cut again. Keep repeating until everything is baked.

Glaze the Cookies

After baking, carefully move the cookies to a wire rack. While they are still warm, brush each cookie with your glaze using a pastry brush. Allow the glaze to dry, and if you like, apply a second layer. For an extra treat, try dipping them in chocolate!

Serving Suggestions

Lebkuchen is delicious on its own but shines when paired with a cup of hot tea. For that festive touch, arrange them with other holiday goodies on a cookie platter. They will be a hit!

Tips for Success

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Allow the dough to rest fully to really enhance the flavor.
Use various cutters for fun shapes that add visual appeal to your cookie trays.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Customize your Lebkuchen! Think about adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to the dough for unique flavor variations.

Storage Tips

Store your Lebkuchen in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’re good for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them with parchment paper layers in-between to prevent sticking.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy your Lebkuchen with warm drinks like mulled wine, chai tea, or a rich hot chocolate. They also pair wonderfully with festive cheeses, creating a delightful snack for your gatherings.

FAQs

What is the history of Lebkuchen?
Lebkuchen has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages in Germany, often associated with Christmas traditions.

Can I make Lebkuchen gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

How long do Lebkuchen last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last for up to two weeks at room temperature.

Can I add nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or hazelnuts can add a delightful crunch and flavor.

What’s the best way to decorate Lebkuchen?
You can sprinkle them with chopped almonds, drizzle with chocolate, or use icing to make creative designs.

These traditional German spice cookies will surely bring warmth and festive cheer to your home. The blend of spices and the sweet glaze capture the essence of holiday baking, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, Lebkuchen is a treat worthy of any occasion. Make them your own by getting creative with flavors and decorations, and enjoy this timeless recipe with family and friends!