Lebkuchen Bars: A Taste of German Christmas Tradition
Introduction
Lebkuchen Bars are a delightful, spiced holiday treat originating from Germany. These dense, cake-like bars are packed with warm spices, nuts, and citrus, often glazed with a simple chocolate or sugar icing. Easier to make than traditional shaped Lebkuchen cookies, they capture the essence of this centuries-old confection in a convenient, shareable form—perfect for holiday baking, gift-giving, or enjoying with a cup of coffee or mulled wine.
A Brief History
Lebkuchen dates back to the 13th century in Franconia, Germany, particularly in the city of Nuremberg, which became famous for its Nürnberger Lebkuchen. Monks in local monasteries originally baked these honey-sweetened spice cakes. The unique blend of spices (like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg) was accessible in Nuremberg due to its position on key medieval trade routes. Over time, Lebkuchen became intrinsically linked to Christmas markets (Christkindlesmarkt) and holiday celebrations. The bar form is a modern, simpler adaptation of the often intricately decorated round or heart-shaped cookies.
Benefits & Special Qualities
· Long Shelf Life: Thanks to honey and spices, these bars stay moist and flavorful for weeks.
· Wholesome Ingredients: Often includes nuts, dried fruit, and whole grains.
· Festive Aroma: The spice blend fills your home with a classic holiday scent.
· Versatile: Can be adapted to be nut-free or gluten-free with substitutions.
· Perfect for Gifting: Dense, portable, and beautifully glazed, they make heartfelt homemade presents.
Ingredients
For the Bars:
· 2 ¾ cups (350g) all-purpose flour
· ½ teaspoon baking soda
· ½ teaspoon salt
· 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
· 1 teaspoon ground ginger
· ½ teaspoon ground cloves
· ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
· ½ teaspoon ground allspice
· ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
· ¾ cup (150g) packed dark brown sugar
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· ¾ cup (255g) honey (or molasses for a darker flavor)
· 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
· 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
· 1 cup (120g) finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds
· ⅓ cup (50g) finely chopped candied orange peel or citron (optional)
For the Chocolate Glaze (Optional but Traditional):
· 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
· 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
For the Simple Sugar Glaze (Alternative):
· 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
· 2-3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
Instructions & Methods
Method 1: The Traditional Mixing Method
1. Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Grease lightly.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients:In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and all spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, allspice).
3. Cream Wet Ingredients:In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Beat in eggs one at a time, then the honey and citrus zests.
4. Combine:Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in Add-ins:Using a spatula, fold in the chopped nuts and candied peel until evenly distributed.
6. Bake:Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool:Let the bars cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
Method 2: The Glazing & Finishing
For Chocolate Glaze:
1. Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.
3. Pour over the completely cooled bar slab in the pan. Tilt the pan to spread evenly.
4. Let the glaze set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
For Sugar Glaze:
1. Whisk powdered sugar and liquid (milk or lemon juice) until a thick but pourable icing forms.
2. Drizzle over cooled bars.
Cutting:
Once glazed and set,use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar, approximate, makes 24)
· Calories: ~220 kcal
· Carbohydrates: 32g
· Protein: 3g
· Fat: 10g (Saturated: 4g)
· Fiber: 1g
· Sugar: 20g
· Note: Values vary based on specific ingredients and glaze used.
For the Lebkuchen Lovers
· Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with a glass of cold milk, a hot espresso, or a German Glühwein (mulled wine).
· Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. The flavors actually improve after 1-2 days.
· Advanced Touch: True enthusiasts might brush the warm bars with a thin layer of apricot jam before glazing for extra moisture and flavor.
· Community: Share them at cookie swaps or as edible gifts wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon. They are a staple in online baking forums during the holidays.
Conclusion
Lebkuchen Bars are more than just a dessert; they are an edible piece of history, embodying the warmth and spirit of a German Christmas. This simplified bar form makes the iconic flavors accessible to any home baker. With their rich spice profile, chewy texture, and sweet glaze, they are guaranteed to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, connecting you to generations of bakers who have shared this timeless treat. Bake a batch, share with loved ones, and savor a taste of festive heritage.
