Lebkuchen is a traditional German Christmas treat, similar to gingerbread. They range in taste from spicy to sweet and come in a variety of shapes, although round is the most common shape. Full of warm and enticing spices, nuts, dried or candied fruit, they will easily become a new addition for Christmas. Package them in nice richly decorated tins as gifts for guests!
- Combine the honey, sugar and butter in a small pot.
- Place pot over medium heat. Add the lemon zest, orange zest and lemon juice. Stir with a wooden spoon.
- When the mixture has melted and is completely combined, add the flour, almonds, baking powder, baking soda and dried fruit.
- Stir continuously, until the mixture turns into a sticky dough.
- Remove from pot and transfer to a bowl.
- Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rest and rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 160* C (320* F) Fan.
- When dough is ready, shape into small balls.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place balls on baking sheet, making sure to space them apart since they will spread while baking.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden.
- When ready, remove from oven and allow to cool.
For the glaze
- In a bowl, add the chocolate, butter and spices. Melt them in a bain marie or place them in the microwave for 2 seconds. Stir often so the mixture does not burn.
- Use a knife to spread the glaze over each Lebkuchen.