Lebkuchen is a traditional spiced sweet with its roots in Germany, particularly associated with the Nuremberg region. This Christmas cake is prepared with an aromatic mixture of spices and nuts and has been a fundamental part of winter celebrations in Europe for centuries. In Latin America, this type of preparation can be found under various names depending on the country and cultural influence, although the specific version of "lebkuchen spice bars" is less common and resembles traditional preparations with spices and honey that are enjoyed in various regions during festive seasons. In Mexico and some Central American countries, cookies or desserts with similar mixtures of cinnamon, clove, and other aromatics are common, while in South America the use of honey and spices is highly valued in traditional baking.
Lebkuchen spice bars
How to Prepare Lebkuchen Spice Bars
To begin, mix the spices, salt, flour, and baking powder in a large bowl.
Add the almonds and lemon zest to the dry mixture and combine well.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture forms a ribbon when the whisk is lifted.
Incorporate the honey and milk into the beaten eggs, mixing well.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the liquid mixture.
Beat until a homogeneous and lump-free batter is achieved.
Spread the batter into a greased and floured 11 x 17-inch jelly roll pan.
Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cake is fully cooked.
While the cake is still warm, carefully unmold it onto a rack to cool.
To prepare the almond glaze, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, rum, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of water.
Beat this mixture until the glaze is smooth and has the desired consistency.
If necessary, add a little more water to thin it and make it easier to spread.
Spread the almond glaze evenly over the warm cake.
Cut the cake into 1 x 2 1/2-inch bars while it is still warm to create individual portions.
These spiced bars can be stored for 6 to 8 weeks in a sealed container if left unglazed, thus preserving their freshness and flavor.
Ingredients (16)
- Cinnamon
- Allspice
- Cloves
- Salt
- Flour
- Baking Powder
- Almonds
- Lemon Zest
- Eggs
- Sugar
- Honey
- Milk
- Powdered Sugar
- Almond Extract
- Rum
- Water
Instructions (15 steps)
- 1 Mix the spices, salt, flour, and baking powder
- 2 Add the almonds and lemon zest
- 3 In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until a ribbon forms when the whisk is lifted
- 4 Add the honey and milk
- 5 Gradually incorporate the flour mixture
- 6 Beat until a homogeneous mixture is obtained
- 7 Spread the batter in a well-greased and floured 11 x 17-inch jelly roll pan
- 8 Bake at 400 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cake is done
- 9 While the cake is still warm, unmold it onto a rack
- 10 To make the almond icing, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, rum, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of water
- 11 Beat until the icing is smooth and has the proper consistency
- 12 Add more water to thin it if necessary
- 13 Spread the warm cake with the almond icing
- 14 Cut the cake into 1 x 2 1/2-inch bars while it is still warm
- 15 The spice bars will keep for 6 to 8 weeks in a closed container if they are not iced
Nutritional Information
Percent Daily Value for nutrients; calories are shown in kcal.