Liebküchen
12 servings
40 minutes
Lebkuchen are traditional German gingerbread cookies that have adorned Christmas tables for centuries. Their history dates back to medieval Germany when spices were rare and considered precious. The rich flavor of these cookies unfolds in harmony with almonds, honey, and warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Lebkuchen have a dense yet tender texture, and the airy orange glaze adds a slight tang and festive shine. They are often served with a cup of aromatic coffee or hot mulled wine, creating a cozy atmosphere for winter evenings. These cookies are not just a treat but a symbol of traditions that unite generations around the family table.
1
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients and orange zest.
- Wheat flour: 250 g
- Ground almonds: 80 g
- Ground cinnamon: 0.5 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: 0.5 teaspoon
- Ground cloves: 0.5 teaspoon
- Baking powder (raising agent): 1 teaspoon
- Grated orange zest: to taste
2
Place a saucepan with butter and honey on low heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Add the juice of half an orange, pour the mixture into a bowl with dry ingredients, and knead until a firm dough forms. Cover and cool.
- Butter: 80 g
- Liquid honey: 170 g
- Oranges: 1 piece
- Baking soda: 0.5 teaspoon
3
When the dough cools slightly, divide it into 30 pieces, roll them into balls and flatten them slightly. Place on parchment paper 2 cm apart and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly on the parchment, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
4
For the glaze, beat powdered sugar with egg white, adding a little orange juice to make the glaze liquid.
- Icing sugar: 100 g
- Egg white: 30 g
- Oranges: 1 piece
5
Dip each gingerbread in the glaze and leave on a rack until fully set.
