Lebkuchen is a traditional German holiday treat that holds a special place in the hearts of many. These delicious, spiced honey cakes have a long history and are deeply rooted in German culture. Lebkuchen is beloved for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and chewy texture, making it a delightful indulgence during the festive season and beyond.

Lebkuchen has a history that stretches back centuries, with its origins often linked to medieval times. The recipe for Lebkuchen was developed by medieval monks in Franconia, Germany, where the combination of spices and honey in baked goods was considered a medicinal remedy. Over time, these honey-spice cakes evolved into the delightful Lebkuchen we know today.

Traditionally, Lebkuchen was associated with various celebrations, particularly during the Christmas season. In medieval times, Lebkuchen was often given as a gift to signify blessings and good wishes for the recipient. The city of Nuremberg in Germany became particularly renowned for its production of high-quality Lebkuchen, and it remains a prominent center for this sweet treat even today.

Lebkuchen is deeply ingrained in German holiday traditions, and the recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique touch to the classic recipe. Today, you can find various types of Lebkuchen, ranging from soft and chewy to crisp and thin, all boasting an array of spices and delightful flavors.

PREP: 25 MIN.

BAKE: 25 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 3 DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup molasses
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• ½ teaspoon anise extract
• 4½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon each ground cloves, allspice, and cardamom
• ½ cup ground walnuts
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup pitted dates
• ½ cup candied lemon peel
• ⅓ cup flaked coconut
• ¼ cup candied orange peel
• 3 tablespoons candied pineapple

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil, then grease the foil and set it aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the molasses, buttermilk, and anise extract.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, ground cloves, allspice, and cardamom. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well. Stir in the ground walnuts.
4. In a food processor, combine the raisins, dates, candied lemon peel, coconut, candied orange peel, and candied pineapple in batches. Cover and process until the ingredients are chopped finely. Stir this mixture into the batter.
5. Press the Lebkuchen dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake the Lebkuchen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-28 minutes or until it becomes lightly browned.

FOR GLAZE:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the sugar and water to a boil. Boil for 1 minute.
2. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until the glaze becomes smooth.
3. Spread the glaze over the warm Lebkuchen bars.
4. Immediately cut the Lebkuchen into squares.
5. Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

Enjoy the delightful and aromatic Lebkuchen bars as a festive treat during the holiday season or at any time of the year!