Introduction

Classic Lebkuchen Spice Bars are a cozy holiday treat inspired by traditional German gingerbread. Rich molasses, warm spices, citrus, and nuts come together to create soft, fragrant bars that taste like Christmas in every bite. These bars stay wonderfully moist, improve with time, and are perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. If you love spiced desserts that are simple to bake but full of old-world flavor, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

For the Bars

• 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground ginger

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp ground allspice

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup (150g) packed dark brown sugar

• ½ cup (170g) molasses (light or dark, not blackstrap)

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tbsp orange zest (from 1 orange)

• ½ cup finely chopped candied citrus peel
  (or use raisins/cranberries)

• 1 cup (120g) chopped blanched almonds or walnuts

Optional Glaze

• 1½ cups (180g) sifted powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice or milk

• (Optional) A bit of lemon zest for extra brightness

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

• Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.

• Set aside.

3. Cream the Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

• Add the molasses, eggs, and orange zest. Mix until smooth.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined.

• Fold in the candied peel (or fruit) and chopped nuts.

5. Bake the Bars

• Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are firm and a toothpick comes out clean.

• Cool completely in the pan.

6. Add the Glaze (Optional)

• Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice or milk until smooth.

• Drizzle over the cooled bars.

• Let the glaze set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

Classic Lebkuchen Spice Bars deliver everything you want in a holiday dessert — warm, spiced, aromatic, and perfectly chewy. They taste even better the next day as the flavors blend beautifully, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container, freeze them for later, or wrap them up as heartfelt homemade gifts. These bars bring nostalgic holiday warmth to every bite.

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