When the festive season rolls around, it’s time to indulge in the delightful flavors of Christmas baking. Today, we bring you a tantalizing treat straight from German tradition – Orangen Glasierte Lebkuchen, also known as Orange Glazed Gingerbread. These soft and spiced gingerbread cookies are drenched in a glossy orange glaze, making them the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Let’s create some festive magic in your kitchen with this merry recipe!
**Orangen Glasierte Lebkuchen – Orange Glazed Gingerbread**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 egg
– Zest of 1 orange
**For the Orange Glaze:**
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
– In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add the molasses, egg, and orange zest to the butter mixture, and mix well.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
– Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
2. **Bake the Cookies:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
– Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until set and slightly firm to the touch.
– Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. **Make the Orange Glaze:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth. Add more juice if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
4. **Glaze the Cookies:**
– Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the orange glaze over the top of each cookie.
– Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing in an airtight container.
These Orangen Glasierte Lebkuchen are not only delicious but also a joy to make, filling your home with the sweet aromas of the holiday season. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or wrap them up as charming edible gifts, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering. Embrace the spirit of the season and create treasured memories with every bite of these delightful treats. Happy baking and happy holidays!
