Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds

Name: Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 rounds
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup honey; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Indulge in the rich flavors of Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds, a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-03T21:14:28.079Z

Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds are a beloved traditional German treat, often enjoyed during the festive season. With a perfect blend of spices and a luscious chocolate coating, these cookies offer a unique and delightful flavor that is sure to impress.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with warm spices
Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for holiday gifting or as a cozy treat

      

The History of Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages in Germany. Originally, these spiced cookies were made by monks in monasteries and were often used as a form of currency during the holiday season. As time progressed, Lebkuchen evolved from a simple bread-like treat into the delicious, spiced cookies we enjoy today, particularly during Christmas festivities.

What sets Lebkuchen apart from other cookies is its unique blend of spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, which create a warm, inviting aroma. Traditional recipes often include nuts and dried fruits, adding to their texture and flavor. This recipe for Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds captures the essence of this beloved treat while introducing a luscious chocolate glaze that elevates it further.

Perfect for Gifting

These Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds make a wonderful gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Their beautiful appearance and enticing aroma will surely delight anyone lucky enough to receive them. You can package them in decorative boxes or tins, adding a personal touch with a handwritten note to make your gift even more special.

Moreover, you can customize these cookies by experimenting with different nuts or adding a hint of your favorite liqueur to the dough. This flexibility allows you to create a unique batch of Lebkuchen that reflects your taste and style, making them an excellent choice for holiday gifting.

Serving Suggestions

While these Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds are delicious on their own, you can enhance your serving experience by pairing them with various accompaniments. A warm cup of spiced tea or rich hot chocolate complements the warm flavors of the cookies beautifully, making for a cozy afternoon treat.

For a festive touch, consider serving these cookies on a platter alongside other holiday sweets like gingerbread or peppermint bark. This not only creates an inviting dessert spread but also offers a delightful variety for your guests, ensuring that everyone's sweet tooth is satisfied.

Ingredients

For the Lebkuchen:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
1/2 cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped

For the Chocolate Glaze:

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices. In another bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, applesauce, and egg until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined.

Stir in nuts and candied peel.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Glaze

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Dip the cooled Lebkuchen rounds in the chocolate glaze, allowing excess to drip off.

Serve

Allow the chocolate to set before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate-Glazed Lebkuchen Rounds fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their texture and flavor for up to one week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the unglazed rounds. Simply bake the cookies, let them cool completely, and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature and dip them in the chocolate glaze.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite spices or flavorings. A pinch of cardamom or a splash of orange zest can provide an extra layer of complexity to the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for glazing, such as white or dark chocolate, to cater to diverse taste preferences.

Additionally, consider making a batch with no nuts for a nut-free version, or incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy texture. These variations allow you to personalize your Lebkuchen experience while still enjoying the delightful essence of this traditional treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate will provide a richer flavor, just adjust the sweetness if desired.

→ How should I store the Lebkuchen Rounds?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for candied citrus peel?

You can use dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different flavor profile.