classic spice cookies

Description

Lebkuchen, a traditional German spice cookie, is soft, fragrant, and perfectly spiced with hints of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Often topped with a sweet glaze or chocolate coating, these cookies are a holiday favorite!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (180ml) honey
• ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (50g) finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts
• ½ cup (70g) candied orange or lemon peel, finely chopped

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons water or milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Chocolate Coating:

• 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, and molasses. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Fold in the chopped nuts and candied peel.
4. The dough will be sticky. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) or flatten slightly for a more traditional shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Add the Glaze or Chocolate Coating

1. For the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, water or milk, and vanilla extract. Dip the tops of the cookies into the glaze or drizzle it over them. Let the glaze set on a wire rack.
2. For the chocolate coating: Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler. Dip the cookies partially or completely in the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve as part of a holiday cookie platter.

Tips:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; the flavors intensify over time.
• Add more candied peel or nuts for extra texture.
• These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Total Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Baking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 25mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 2g

Enjoy these festive Lebkuchen with their signature blend of spices and a touch of sweetness!