Note: Dough must chill 6–8 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 1: Cook the Honey Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, granulated sugar, and butter. Warm over medium heat until the mixture just begins to simmer and the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.

Step 3: Combine Wet & Dry

Once the honey mixture is cool, stir in the egg, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla, and almonds. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dough to keep it from drying out. Refrigerate for 6–8 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Prep for Baking

Let chilled dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment and lightly grease.

Step 6: Bake

Spread dough into the baking dish using a greased spatula (it will be sticky). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Add the Glaze

Stir together all icing ingredients until smooth. Spread over warm bars and let cool completely.

Step 8: Slice and Store

Once the icing sets, slice into bars. Store in an airtight container—these taste even better a day or two later!

Tips for Perfect Lebkuchen Bars

• Chill time is essential: It deepens the flavor and improves texture.
• Don’t skip the zest: It brightens the rich spices beautifully.
• Warm the glaze slightly: It spreads like silk over warm bars.
• Use parchment paper: Makes removing and slicing the bars much easier.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted dark chocolate zigzags on top.
• Nut Swap: Replace almonds with chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Extra Spice: Add cloves or nutmeg for a deeper spice profile.
• Gluten-friendly: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.