Transport yourself to the festive streets of Germany with our Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Bars) Recipe!
These delightful bars are a beloved holiday treat, featuring a perfect balance of warm spices, honey sweetness, and a hint of citrus zest.
Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones during the holiday season, these Lebkuchen bars are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and joy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts (optional)
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Zester or grater
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the honey, egg, vanilla extract, and citrus zest until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Nutritional Facts
Per Serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
Health Benefits
While Lebkuchen bars are undoubtedly a treat, they also offer some surprising health benefits.
The spices used in this recipe, such as ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Additionally, honey, a key ingredient in Lebkuchen, contains antioxidants and may help soothe sore throats and suppress coughs.
The nuts provide healthy fats and protein, while the citrus zest adds a burst of vitamin C.
Enjoying these Lebkuchen bars in moderation can be a delightful way to indulge in the holiday spirit while still nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Q2: Can I omit the nuts for allergies?
Certainly! Feel free to omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds or dried fruit if preferred.
Q3: Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Q4: Can I use molasses instead of honey?
While molasses can be used as a substitute for honey, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile of the bars.
Q5: Can I add chocolate chips to these bars?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can be a delicious variation to these Lebkuchen bars. Simply fold them into the dough before baking.