Lebkuchenpralinen

Lebkuchenpralinen are delectable German treats that are perfect for the holiday season or as a special treat any time of the year. These bite-sized delights combine the warm flavors of traditional lebkuchen cookies with the indulgent richness of chocolate. Making Lebkuchenpralinen at home is easier than you might think, and the end result is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get started with this delightful recipe!

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups finely ground hazelnuts
– 1 cup almond meal
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup candied ginger, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds, toasted (optional, for garnish)

**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely ground hazelnuts, almond meal, honey, candied orange peel, candied ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, lemon zest, and orange zest. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.

2. Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the dough is too sticky to work with, you can lightly grease your hands with oil.

3. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to firm up.

4. In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and vegetable oil, stirring until smooth and well combined.

5. Remove the Lebkuchenpralinen from the refrigerator and, using a fork or dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate to coat evenly. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the Lebkuchenpralinen with toasted chopped almonds for added crunch and flavor.

7. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or, for faster results, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

8. Once the chocolate has hardened, your Lebkuchenpralinen are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Lebkuchenpralinen make wonderful gifts for loved ones or a delightful addition to your holiday dessert spread. The combination of spiced nut flavors and rich chocolate coating is truly irresistible. Don’t be surprised if these little treats become a new favorite in your household! Enjoy the process of making these indulgent Lebkuchenpralinen and savor every bite.