Gingerbread, or Lebkuchen as it’s known in Germany, is a beloved holiday treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. The spicy, sweet aroma of freshly baked gingerbread can evoke memories of family gatherings, Christmas markets, and cozy winter evenings by the fire. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make traditional German gingerbread that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or giving as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, and beat until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- If using, fold in the chopped almonds and raisins.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the gingerbread to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your delicious German gingerbread!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cookie):
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Serving Suggestions
Gingerbread is best enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of icing for an extra festive touch.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your own unique gingerbread recipe. You can also add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Substitutions
- You can use honey or corn syrup instead of molasses if you prefer a milder flavor.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar instead.
- For a dairy-free version, you can use almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk.
Storage
Gingerbread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This will help it cream more easily with the sugar.
- If you’re using raisins, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter. This will make them plump and juicy.
- Don’t overmix the batter or your cookies will be tough.
Notes
This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on the size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of gingerbread in Germany?
Gingerbread has been a popular treat in Germany since the Middle Ages. In the 16th century, Nuremberg became famous for its gingerbread, which was sold at Christmas markets and shipped all over Europe.
Is German gingerbread different from other types of gingerbread?
Yes, German gingerbread is typically softer and more cake-like than other types of gingerbread. It’s also often decorated with icing or chocolate.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, but we haven’t tested this recipe with gluten-free flour so we can’t guarantee the results.
Personal Thoughts
Making gingerbread is a cherished holiday tradition in Germany, and this recipe is a delicious way to bring a taste of German Christmas to your own home. These cookies are soft, spicy, and perfectly sweet, with a lovely aroma that will fill your kitchen with festive cheer. Whether you’re baking for your family, your friends, or just for yourself, these gingerbread cookies are sure to be a hit.
In summary, German gingerbread is a classic holiday treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. This recipe is a great starting point for anyone who wants to try their hand at making traditional gingerbread. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and add-ins to make the recipe your own. Happy baking!