Delicious Nut-Free Lebkuchen Recipe for Christmas
Lebkuchen, a traditional German cookie, is a beloved holiday treat that is both spicy and sweet. This nut-free version is perfect for those with nut allergies or anyone looking for a new twist on a classic recipe. Made with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, and sweetened with molasses, honey, and brown sugar, these cookies are a true delight.
As a chef, I understand the importance of catering to everyone’s dietary needs and preferences. That’s why I created this nut-free lebkuchen recipe that is both delicious and safe for those with nut allergies. Whether you’re looking for a new holiday cookie recipe or just want to try something new, this nut-free lebkuchen recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of gingerbread, then you’re in for a treat with this Nut-Free Lebkuchen Recipe. This easy German recipe for Lebkuchen cookies is a must-try for anyone who loves traditional German cookies. But what makes this recipe even more special is that it’s nut-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
This recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions, but it’s also great for anyone who wants to try something different. The combination of molasses, honey, and spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg create a sweet and spicy flavor that’s hard to resist. The addition of grated lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing tang that balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour, or dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter substitute. You can also add your own twist to the recipe by adding different spices or toppings. The possibilities are endless!
This Nut-Free Lebkuchen Recipe is perfect for the holiday season, but it’s also great year-round. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. And best of all, they’re easy to make!
So, whether you’re a fan of traditional German cookies, or you’re just looking for a tasty treat that’s free of nuts, gluten, and dairy, this Nut-Free Lebkuchen Recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredient List
Before we start making our Nut-Free Lebkuchen, let’s gather all the ingredients we need first. This recipe calls for traditional German spices, such as ground allspice, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, giving it that authentic German lebkuchen flavor. Here’s what you will need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp bicarbonate soda
- 3 tsp lebkuchen spice (make your own or buy pre-made)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- a pinch of ground nutmeg
- 100 g light brown sugar
- 100 g dark brown sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) honey
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) molasses
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) water
This recipe can also be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. For those who are dairy-free, this recipe is perfect since it doesn’t contain any dairy products.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to start baking our Nut-Free Lebkuchen. This recipe is perfect for those who have nut allergies or are looking for a gluten-free option.
Step 1: Prepare the Lebkuchen Spice
The first step in making this recipe is to prepare the lebkuchen spice, which will give the cookies their traditional flavor. Mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. You can also add a pinch of ground black pepper if you like.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 300g of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour), 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda. Add 2 teaspoons of the lebkuchen spice you just prepared, and mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg with 100g of light brown sugar, 100g of dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of molasses. Add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon zest.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a firm dough forms. Add a little water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if the dough is too dry.
Step 5: Rest the Dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and rest it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. This step is important to allow the dough to firm up and become more manageable.
Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Cut out the cookies using a cookie cutter or a knife.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can decorate them with a simple glaze made of confectioners’ sugar and water. Mix 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of water until a smooth glaze forms. Drizzle the glaze over the cookies and let it dry completely before serving.
Now your Nut-Free Lebkuchen cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
Substitutions and Variations
Making substitutions and variations to a recipe is a great way to personalize it and make it your own. This nut-free lebkuchen recipe is no exception. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations that you can try:
– Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. You can use a 1:1 substitution ratio, but keep in mind that some gluten-free flours may absorb more liquid than all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe accordingly.
– Dairy-Free: This recipe is already dairy-free, but if you want to make it even more allergy-friendly, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or a store-bought egg replacer.
– Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, simply use a vegan egg replacer instead of a regular egg. You can also replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
– Nut-Free: This recipe is already nut-free, but if you want to add some crunch to the cookies, you can replace some of the flour with ground almonds or hazelnuts.
– Lebkuchen Spice: If you can’t find lebkuchen spice in your local grocery store, you can make your own by mixing together ground cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg. Use 1 teaspoon of each spice.
– Molasses and Honey: If you don’t have molasses, you can use dark corn syrup or treacle instead. If you don’t have honey, you can use golden syrup or agave nectar.
– Lemon Juice: The lemon juice in this recipe adds a nice tangy flavor to the cookies. If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice instead.
By experimenting with substitutions and variations, you can create a truly unique and personalized version of this traditional German cookie recipe.
Serving and Pairing
These nut-free lebkuchen cookies are perfect for any occasion, but they are especially perfect for the holiday season. They have a deliciously spicy and sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of beverages, making them the perfect addition to any holiday gathering.
One classic pairing for lebkuchen is with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warm beverage complements the spicy gingerbread flavor of the cookies and is perfect for a cold winter day. For a more indulgent pairing, try serving these cookies with a rich hot chocolate or a spiced cider.
If you’re serving these cookies as part of a larger dessert spread, consider pairing them with some fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The fresh fruit will help balance out the sweetness of the cookies, while the ice cream will add a creamy texture that complements the chewy texture of the lebkuchen.
For a more traditional German pairing, serve these cookies with a glass of mulled wine. The warm, spiced wine pairs perfectly with the spicy gingerbread flavor of the cookies and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
No matter how you choose to serve these nut-free lebkuchen cookies, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their unique flavor and chewy texture make them the perfect addition to any holiday dessert spread or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a warm beverage.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
These nut-free lebkuchen cookies can be made ahead of time and stored for later consumption. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. The cookies tend to get softer over time, but their flavor remains just as good.
If you want to store them for a longer period or keep them fresh for gift-giving, I recommend freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. Before serving, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
When reheating the cookies, place them on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or until they are warm and fragrant. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
If you want to add a fresh touch to your lebkuchen cookies, sprinkle some confectioners’ sugar on top before serving. This will give them a beautiful and festive look.
Remember to store them separately from cookies with nuts, as they may cause cross-contamination. These cookies are also dairy-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
With these make-ahead, storing, and reheating tips, you can enjoy these delicious nut-free lebkuchen cookies anytime throughout the year.
Tips for Perfect Results
Making perfect Nut-Free Lebkuchen requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
1. Measure ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients, especially the flour, for precise measurements.
2. Chill the dough: The dough for Nut-Free Lebkuchen needs to be chilled before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least an hour or overnight for best results.
3. Use fresh spices: Lebkuchen spice is a blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Make sure your spices are fresh and not stale. You can also make your own lebkuchen spice by mixing the individual spices in the right proportions.
4. Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats: To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, use parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will also make cleaning up easier.
5. Don’t overbake the cookies: Overbaking the cookies can result in dry and hard cookies. Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re baking and take them out of the oven as soon as they start to turn golden brown.
6. Let the cookies cool completely: The cookies will be fragile and soft when they come out of the oven. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Decorate with confectioners’ sugar glaze: Nut-Free Lebkuchen is traditionally decorated with a confectioners’ sugar glaze. You can also add some lemon juice to the glaze for a tangy flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make perfect Nut-Free Lebkuchen every time. Happy baking!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this nut-free Lebkuchen recipe is perfect for those with nut allergies or anyone who wants to enjoy traditional German cookies without the use of nuts. With its warm spices and rich molasses flavor, these cookies will surely become a new favorite during the holiday season. This recipe is also easily adaptable to be gluten-free and dairy-free for those with dietary restrictions. So, whether you are looking for an easy German biscuits recipe or a traditional German Christmas cookie, this Lebkuchen recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with these delicious and authentic German treats!
Nut-Free Lebkuchen Recipe
from "brown eyed baker" – http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2009/11/12/lebkuchen-german-christmas-cookies/ – time does not include 2-hour chilling time
Cookies
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup molasses
Glaze
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Preheat the oven to 350°F Grease two baking sheets or line them with parchment paper.
- Sift together the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and allspice. Set aside.
- Beat the egg and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl. Beat in the honey and molasses until thoroughly combined.
- On low speed, stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Turn the dough out from the bowl onto a well-floured surface. Knead the dough, adding more flour as kneaded, until a stiff dough is formed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 2 hours or overnight.
- On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Cut the dough into 18 3×2-inch rectangles. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let cool.
- Whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, water and lemon juice and brush or spread on top of the cookies. Allow the glaze to firm, and then store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
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