Introduction
There’s something magical about holiday baking—the warm spices, the cozy aromas, and the recipes that come with generations of stories. These Lebkuchen Bars bring all of that nostalgic charm into one easy dessert. Inspired by traditional German gingerbread, they’re soft, chewy, warmly spiced, and topped with a bright citrus glaze that makes every bite shine.
If you grew up with holiday cookie trays piled high with spice cookies and almond treats, these bars will feel like home. And if you’re discovering Lebkuchen for the first time, prepare for a new seasonal favorite. The combination of cinnamon, ginger, honey, and orange creates a flavor that’s comforting without being overly sweet—perfect for gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with a hot cup of tea.
Best of all, this is an easy holiday dessert recipe that fits beautifully into busy December schedules. The dough chills overnight, letting the flavors deepen naturally, and the bars bake up beautifully with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and becomes a tradition of its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting flavors: Perfect blend of cinnamon, ginger, honey, and citrus.
- Great for gifting: Stays soft for days and tastes even better after resting.
- Easy to slice and serve: A crowd-friendly dessert that travels well.
- Holiday-perfect aroma: Makes your kitchen smell like a festive bakery.
- Family-friendly treat: Not too sweet; ideal for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Lebkuchen Bars
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
