These German gingerbread cookies are soft, spiced, and full of holiday cheer! With flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Every time I make these, my kitchen smells like a festive wonderland. I love decorating them with icing, and let’s face it, the more sprinkles, the better! 🎉
Making German gingerbread cookies is a joy! Just mix, roll out, and cut into fun shapes. They always bring a smile, especially when enjoyed with a hot cup of cocoa!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: A must for the structure of the cookies. If you’re gluten-free, a blend of gluten-free flour can also work, but the texture may differ slightly.
Honey: It gives the cookies a rich flavor and moisture. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can work, but they might change the taste a bit.
Ground almonds: They add a nice nutty flavor and richness. You can swap them with any other nut flour or just stick to all-purpose flour if you prefer.
Candied orange peel: This adds a zesty brightness. If you don’t have it, consider using dried fruit like raisins or leaving it out altogether.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for Gingerbread Cookies?
The dough for these gingerbread cookies needs proper refrigeration to develop the flavors and texture. Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
- After mixing the dough, form it into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better.
- When rolling the dough out, make sure your surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking.
- A thickness of about 1/4 inch works best for evenly baked cookies that remain soft.
- Don’t overbake—pull them out when they are just set. They’ll firm up as they cool.
With these tips, you’ll create delicious and soft gingerbread cookies perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your baking adventure!
German Gingerbread Cookies (Lebkuchen)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ground almonds or almond flour
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Glaze and Decoration:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or lemon juice for a sharper glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- White royal icing for decoration (powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 3 hours, which includes 30 minutes for preparation, 2 hours for chilling the dough, and about 15 minutes for baking and decorating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This will be the dry part of the recipe. Set it aside for later.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This adds air and creates a lovely texture!
3. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to mix in that wonderful flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixes:
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
5. Fold in Extras:
Gently fold in the ground almonds and the optional chopped candied orange peel. This will give extra texture and flavor to your cookies!
6. Chill the Dough:
Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors develop and makes the dough easier to handle later.
7. Preheat and Prepare:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. The dough should be pliable but not too sticky.
9. Cut the Cookies:
Using cookie cutters, cut into desired shapes. Place the cookies on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch of space between each one.
10. Bake the Cookies:
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and the edges are slightly golden. Don’t overbake—these cookies should be soft!
11. Cool Down:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
12. Prepare the Glaze:
For the glaze, whisk the powdered sugar with milk (or lemon juice) and vanilla extract until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or liquid as needed.
13. Glaze the Cookies:
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze or use a brush to coat them. Place on a wire rack to allow the glaze to dry.
14. Decorate with Royal Icing:
For decorative designs, prepare royal icing by beating together powdered sugar, egg whites, and a few drops of lemon juice until it reaches stiff peaks. Transfer to a piping bag and pipe your favorite designs onto the cookies.
15. Let it Set:
Allow the decorations to dry completely before storing the cookies in an airtight container.
These traditional German gingerbread cookies, or Lebkuchen, are not only delicious but also a delightful treat to share during the holidays. Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or mulled wine! Happy baking!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware that the texture might differ slightly, so choose a blend designed for baking for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer, you can also freeze them; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Omit the Candied Orange Peel?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of candied orange peel or don’t have any on hand, you can leave it out. The cookies will still be delicious with their aromatic spices!
How Can I Make the Glaze Thicker or Thinner?
If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. For a thinner glaze, add a little more milk or lemon juice. Just mix well after each addition to avoid lumps!
