When the festive season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked treats filling your home. Combining the rich flavors of traditional German Lebkuchen with the indulgent fudginess of brownies, these Lebkuchen Brownies, also known as Gingerbread Brownies, are a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite. Perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace, these sweet and spiced brownies are sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
**Lebkuchen Brownies (Gingerbread Brownies)**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. In a separate larger bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and molasses.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. If using, fold in the chopped almonds or walnuts to add a delightful crunch to your brownies.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the brownies to be moist and fudgy.
8. Allow the Lebkuchen Brownies to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, optionally dust the brownies with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a festive finish.
Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed with a steaming cup of mulled cider, these Lebkuchen Brownies are certain to evoke the spirit of the holidays in every delicious bite. Share them with loved ones or package them up as heartfelt gifts for friends and neighbors. Happy baking, and may your home be filled with the joy and warmth of the season!
