Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen is a delicious German treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. These spicy and sweet cookies are packed with flavors like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, making them ideal for cozying up at home with a warm drink. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of German tradition to your baking repertoire, give this Lebkuchen recipe a try!

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set the dry ingredients aside.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the honey, molasses, brown sugar, and butter until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients, mixing well until fully combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms.

6. Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough and shape it into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

8. Bake the Lebkuchen cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are set but still slightly soft.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

These Lebkuchen cookies are the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee on a chilly afternoon. Their warm spices and sweet flavors are sure to evoke a sense of coziness and holiday cheer. Share these treats with loved ones or keep them all to yourself – either way, they’re bound to be a hit! Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful German cookies.