These delicious Lebkuchenplätzchen Gingerbread Cookies are a classic treat widely enjoyed during the festive Christmas season in Germany. Traditionally made with a warm blend of spices and honey, these cookies are sure to fill your home with the cozy scent of the holidays. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a thoughtful gift, these cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration.
**Lebkuchenplätzchen Gingerbread Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the honey, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well to combine.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Stir in the chopped almonds and candied citrus peel until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
9. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, dust the cookies with confectioners’ sugar for a festive finish.
These Lebkuchenplätzchen Gingerbread Cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine, curled up by the fireplace with loved ones. Their spiced aroma and soft texture make them a beloved holiday treat that will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking a batch for a cookie exchange or to enjoy with your family, these cookies are a delightful way to spread Christmas cheer. Wishing you a cozy and joyous holiday season filled with sweet moments shared with those you love.
