Recipe: Nuremberg Christmas Bars (Lebkuchen Bars)
This traditional treat is a favorite in the family, passed down from a mother who was born and raised in Nuremberg, Germany. These bars are made with a combination of warm spices, a sweet glaze, and a rich, dense texture that makes them a perfect addition to any holiday spread. Let the bars sit for a week after baking to allow the flavor to deepen, just like how it was done every year for Christmas.
Ingredients:
For the bars:
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds (or hazelnuts)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 egg
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon water (if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, ground almonds (or hazelnuts), baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This may take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add the honey and egg: Beat in the honey and egg until well combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
- Spread the batter: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and firm to the touch. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a little water until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more water, one drop at a time.
- Glaze the bars: Once the bars are completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes.
- Let them sit: Cover the bars and let them sit for a week or so to deepen the flavor, just like the traditional recipe from Nuremberg. The bars will become soft and flavorful as they rest.
Enjoy your homemade Nuremberg Christmas Bars!