17+ Lebkuchen Traditional German Christmas Cookies Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!

Published on: Apr 13, 2024

Lebkuchen, also known as traditional German Christmas cookies, are a staple during the holiday season in Germany. These delicious treats are a rich and flavorful combination of spices, honey, and nuts, making them a perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of glühwein (mulled wine). In this article, we will delve into the history of lebkuchen, the different variations of this beloved treat, and share a traditional German Christmas cookies recipe for you to try at home.

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Lebkuchen (German Fruit and Spice Cookies)

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Lemon, Orange, Dried Apricot, Dried Cherries

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Lebkuchen, also known as German fruit and spice cookies, are a staple during the holiday season in Germany. These soft and chewy cookies are packed with warm spices and dried fruits, making them a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. Here are 20 mouth-watering Lebkuchen recipes for you to try this holiday season.

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Sugar glazed lebkuchen (German Christmas cookies)

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Almond Meal, Ground Ginger, Ground

Lebkuchen: German Gingerbread Cookies — Michelle Bessudo

This classic Lebkuchen recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the traditional flavors of Germany during Christmas. The cookies are made with a mix of ground almonds, hazelnuts, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The glaze on top adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances out the spices.

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German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Runny Honey, Butter, Plain Flour, Ground Almond, Ground

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Pfeffernusse German Spice Cookies | Sugar and Soul

If you're a fan of chocolate, then this recipe is for you. These German Christmas cookies are made with a rich chocolate dough and filled with a spiced chocolate filling. They are then topped with a drizzle of chocolate and sprinkles, making them a festive and indulgent treat.

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Zimtsterne – German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Powdered Sugar, Ground Almonds, Cinnamon

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Zimtsterne, also known as cinnamon stars, are a popular Lebkuchen cookie in Germany. These cookies are made with a mixture of ground almonds, cinnamon, and egg whites, giving them a chewy and slightly crispy texture. The cookies are then topped with a sweet glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic holiday flavor.

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Pfeffernusse German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Flour, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar, Molasses, Butter

German Pfeffernusse cookies. | Cookies recipes christmas, German ...

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Pfeffernusse cookies are a traditional German treat that is popular during the Christmas season. These small, round cookies are made with a blend of warm spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and are coated in a generous amount of powdered sugar. They are a perfect treat to enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

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German Lebkuchen Cookies

Main Ingredients: Honey, Molasses, Brown Sugar, Eggs, Lemon Juice, Lemon

Sugar glazed lebkuchen (German Christmas cookies)

Classic Lebkuchen Recipe - German Christmas Cookies [EASY ]

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, these German Lebkuchen cookies are the perfect recipe for you. Made with almond flour and sweetened with honey, these cookies are packed with warm spices and dried fruits. They are also dairy-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

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German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Egg Yolk, Hazelnut Flour, Plain Flour

These traditional German Christmas cookies are made with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, giving them a warm and comforting flavor. The dough is also filled with chopped almonds and candied orange peel, adding a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness.

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German Terrassen Kekse Christmas cookies

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Granulated Sugar, Egg Yolks

10 Best German Christmas Cookies Recipes

Terrassen Kekse, also known as Terrace Cookies, are a popular German Christmas treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. These cookies are made with a buttery shortbread base and topped with a layer of apricot jam and a crunchy nutty topping. They are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

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German Anise Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Flour, Vanilla Sugar, Eggs, Anise

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Anisbredele - Alsatian Anise Christmas Cookies | Spice Trekkers

Anise cookies are a favorite in Germany during the holiday season. These simple but flavorful cookies are made with anise extract, giving them a delicious licorice flavor. They are also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

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German Dominosteine Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Honey, Butter, Sugar, Egg Yolks, Flour, Gingerbread

Dominosteine: A German Layered Christmas Cookie With A Lot Of Flavor ...

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Dominosteine, also known as Domino Stones, are a unique and delicious German Christmas cookie. These cookies are made with layers of gingerbread, marzipan, and a fruity jelly filling, all coated in a layer of dark chocolate. They are a perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors.

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German Spitzbuben Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Macadamia Nuts, Flour, Powdered Sugar, Salt, Butter

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Spitzbuben, also known as Linzer cookies, are a classic German Christmas cookie. These cookies are made with a buttery shortbread dough and filled with a layer of raspberry jam. The tops are then decorated with a sprinkling of powdered sugar, making them a festive and delicious treat.

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German Flourless Christmas Cookies (Elisenlebkuchen)

Main Ingredients: Almonds, Hazelnuts, Large Eggs, Powdered Sugar, Mace

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German Lebkuchen Recipe {Elisenlebkuchen} | Plated Cravings

If you're looking for a flourless option, these Elisenlebkuchen cookies are a perfect choice. Made with a mix of ground almonds, hazelnuts, and candied citrus peel, these cookies are packed with flavor and texture. They are also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

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Lebkuchen – German Spice Cookies

Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Flour, Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, Canela

Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies) - Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons

Lebkuchen: German Gingerbread Cookies — Michelle Bessudo | Recipe ...

Lebkuchen - German Christmas Ginger Cookies - Cook Republic

This Lebkuchen recipe is a classic and simple version of the traditional German spice cookies. Made with a mix of warm spices, including cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, these cookies are perfect for those who want to experience the authentic flavors of Germany during the holiday season.

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Lebkuchen (German Nut Cookies)

Main Ingredients: Marzipan, Sugar, Egg Whites, Eggs, Flour, Salt, Ground

German Gingerbread (Lebkuchen) is a very popular sweet treat during ...

If you love nuts, then you'll love these Lebkuchen cookies. Made with a mixture of ground almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts, these cookies are packed with nutty flavors and a touch of sweetness from the glaze on top. They are a delicious and festive treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

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Lebkuchen - German Gingerbread Cookies

Main Ingredients: Demerara Sugar, Milk, Water, Butter, Unbleached All

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Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread) | cooking ala mel

Lebkuchen Recipe - Gingerbread Cookies from Germany & Austria

Gingerbread cookies are a staple during the holiday season, and this German version is a must-try. These cookies are made with a blend of warm spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and are coated in a sweet glaze. They are a classic and delicious treat that everyone will love.

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Traditional German Stollen for Christmas

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Dark Rum, Flour, Sugar, Butter, Candied Lemon

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Stollen. Traditional German Christmas Cake With Dried Fruits And Stock ...

Stollen is a traditional German Christmas bread that is filled with dried fruits and nuts and dusted with powdered sugar. This recipe is a classic version of the popular holiday treat, and it's perfect for sharing with friends and family. Serve it warm with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat.

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Christmas Stollen Traditional German Holiday Bread

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Rum, Flour, Milk, Dry Yeast, Sugar, Salt

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Stollen – German Christmas Bread | Heaven on a Spoon

Another version of Stollen, this recipe is filled with a mix of dried fruits, including raisins, cherries, and apricots, and a touch of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The bread is then coated in a layer of melted butter and dusted with a generous amount of powdered sugar, making it a rich and indulgent treat.

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Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)

Main Ingredients: Honey, Molasses, Coconut Sugar, Almond Oil, Egg, White

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This Lebkuchen recipe is a unique and delicious twist on the traditional German gingerbread cookies. The dough is made with a mix of ground almonds and hazelnuts, giving the cookies a nutty flavor and a slightly crispy texture. They are then topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze, making them a refreshing and delightful treat.

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Vegan Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)

Main Ingredients: Maple Syrup, Vegan Butter, All Purpose Flour, Ground

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If you're following a vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the delicious flavors of German Lebkuchen. This recipe is made with a mix of almond flour, coconut sugar, and warm spices, giving the cookies a sweet and spicy flavor. They are also gluten-free, making them a perfect holiday treat for everyone.

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Lebkuchen

Main Ingredients: Flour, Ground Nutmeg, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Cloves

Lebkuchen Plätzchen | Vegane Weihnachts-Kekse - Bianca Zapatka | Rezepte

German Christmas Lebkuchen recipe | heysmokies

Last but not least, here's a classic Lebkuchen recipe that is sure to please everyone. Made with a mix of ground almonds, hazelnuts, and a blend of warm spices, these cookies are packed with flavor and have the perfect soft and chewy texture. They are a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.

The History of Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen has been a beloved Christmas tradition in Germany since the 13th century. Its origins can be traced back to Franconia, a region in northern Bavaria, where it was first made by monks in monasteries. The word "lebkuchen" comes from the German word "leb" which means "life" and "kuchen" which means "cake." In medieval times, lebkuchen was considered a luxury item and was often reserved for special occasions such as Christmas, weddings, and festivals.

The Different Variations of Lebkuchen

Over the years, different regions in Germany have developed their own unique variations of lebkuchen. In Nuremberg, a city in Bavaria, a soft and cake-like lebkuchen known as "Elisenlebkuchen" is popular. In Aachen, a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, a hard and crispy lebkuchen called "Aachener Printen" is favored. Other variations include "Nürnberger Lebkuchen," "Heidesand," and "Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck."

The Traditional German Christmas Cookies Recipe

Now, let's get to the good part - the recipe! To make traditional German Christmas cookies, you will need **honey, brown sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and chopped nuts**. Begin by heating the honey and brown sugar in a large saucepan until dissolved. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually add it to the honey mixture. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and spices together before adding it to the honey mixture. Finally, stir in the chopped nuts. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to shape the dough into your desired shapes. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let the cookies cool before decorating with icing or sprinkles. In conclusion, lebkuchen is a delicious and festive treat that has been a part of German Christmas traditions for centuries. Its rich history and various variations make it a beloved holiday treat not just in Germany, but around the world. So why not try making traditional German Christmas cookies at home this holiday season? Your taste buds will thank you!