German "lebkuchen" Recipe

Lebkuchen: Traditional German Christmas Cakes

History:
Lebkuchen, also known as German Christmas cakes, have a rich history dating back centuries. These delicious treats originated in Germany and have become a symbol of Christmas traditions throughout the country. Lebkuchen is believed to have been introduced by monks in the medieval period and was initially associated with religious celebrations and festivals. Over time, it evolved into a beloved holiday delicacy enjoyed by people of all ages.

Fun Facts:
1. Lebkuchen is popular not only in Germany but also in various other European countries during the Christmas season. Each country has its own unique variation of this traditional treat.
2. The word "Lebkuchen" comes from the German word "Leb," meaning life, and "kuchen," meaning cake, reflecting its significance during festive occasions.
3. Traditional lebkuchen was often shaped into elaborate designs and decorated with intricate patterns. These decorative cakes were highly valued and exchanged as gifts between families and friends during Christmas festivities.
4. Nuremberg, a city in Germany, is particularly famous for its lebkuchen. It holds an annual Christmas market called "Christkindlmarkt," where vendors showcase and sell a variety of lebkuchen, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Now, let's dive into Aunt Sarah's recipe for delicious German "Lebkuchen"!

Ingredients:
- 1 pound dark brown sugar
- 3 whole eggs and yolks of 3 more
- 1/4 pound citron, finely shaved on a "slaw-cutter"
- 1/2 pound English walnut meats, chopped fine
- 1 quart flour, sifted with 2 teaspoonfuls of baking powder

Icing:
(Note: This icing is to be used after the cakes have cooled.)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar and eggs. Mix well until the sugar is well incorporated.
3. Add the finely shaved citron and chopped walnut meats to the mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Gradually add the sifted flour and baking powder mixture to the bowl. Mix until a thick dough is formed.
5. Dust a clean surface with flour, and using a rolling pin, roll out the dough until it is approximately half an inch thick. Avoid rolling it too thin, as lebkuchen should have a slightly thicker texture.
6. Using a large coffee cup or a round cookie cutter, cut out the dough into circular shapes.
7. Place the cut-out dough circles on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cake.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cakes turn a golden brown color.
9. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on wire racks.

Icing:
- The Lebkuchen cakes can be left plain for a more rustic look. However, if you prefer to ice them, follow this simple icing recipe:

Ingredients for Icing:
- Powdered sugar
- Lemon juice or water

Instructions for Icing:
1. In a mixing bowl, add powdered sugar.
2. Gradually add lemon juice or water to the powdered sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until a thick but spreadable icing consistency is achieved.
3. Take each cooled Lebkuchen cake and carefully spread the icing on top, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
4. Allow the icing to set before serving or storing the Lebkuchen cakes.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
Lebkuchen has inspired many other festive treats around the world. Here are a few similar recipes that you might enjoy:

1. Pfeffernüsse: These are small, round spiced cookies often found in German-speaking countries. They are made with similar spices as lebkuchen but have a slightly different texture.

2. Speculoos: A traditional Belgian spiced cookie, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. Speculoos have a distinct flavor profile and are usually shaped with intricate designs.

3. Gingerbread Cookies: A classic Christmas staple in many cultures, gingerbread cookies share some similarities with lebkuchen. They are spiced and often decorated with icing.

4. Honigkuchen: A honey cake popular in Germany, particularly during the Christmas season. Honigkuchen is often shaped into rectangular loaves and enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Enjoy the wonderful flavors and aromas of lebkuchen and these similar dishes during your holiday season, and continue the tradition of baking these treasured treats for your loved ones. Frohe Weihnachten (Merry Christmas)!