German Christmas Cookies Lebkuchen Recipe Aka German Gingerbread

Baking during the holiday season always brings such warmth and joy to the home. One tradition that has been celebrated for generations is the making of German Christmas cookies, particularly the delightful Lebkuchen, also known as German Gingerbread. These aromatic and spicy cookies bring festive cheer with every bite and fill the house with the most enticing scents, reminiscent of the holiday markets in Germany. Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe for this classic treat that will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.

**German Christmas Cookies Lebkuchen Recipe Aka German Gingerbread**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup finely chopped candied orange peel
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, brown sugar, and butter. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Once the honey mixture has cooled, stir in the egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Fold in the almonds and candied orange peel until evenly distributed.
5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply form dough into small balls and flatten slightly on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Be careful not to overbake as they can easily dry out.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Lebkuchen with confectioners’ sugar for a snowy finish.

These aromatic German Christmas cookies will be a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. The combination of sweet honey, warm spices, and crunchy almonds make each bite a taste of the festive season. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for the ultimate cozy holiday experience. Happy baking and happy holidays!