CultureGrams Christmas Recipe: Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)
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Germany is famous for its outdoor Christkindlmarkt (Christmas markets), which attract large crowds beginning as early as November. In addition to Christmas trees, nativity scenes, and spectacular light displays, the markets offer goods such as handicrafts, art, and—perhaps most importantly—food and drink. Popular options include Glühwein (spiced red wine), Eierpunsch (similar to eggnog), and Lebkuchen (gingerbread). To give you a taste of Christmas in Germany, here is a Lebkuchen recipe from our CultureGrams recipe collection.
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)
This sweet treat is a favorite in Germany during the Christmas season.
- 2 3/4 cups sifted flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
- 1/2 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Sift together flour, baking soda, and spices; stir in nuts.
- Beat egg and add corn syrup, sugar, lemon juice, and rind and mix well. Stir in the flour mixture.
- Divide the dough in half and put it on greased and floured baking sheets. Flatten dough with moistened hands to 1/8 inch thick. Bake in 400°F oven 13 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and brush with icing made by mixing confectioners' sugar with water. Cut while still warm. Cover and store in a tightly fitting container.
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