These Lebkuchen Bars bring the cozy spirit of a German Christmas market to your kitchen—soft, spiced gingerbread studded with nuts and candied citrus, topped with a delicate orange glaze. With just 8 simple ingredients, they’re easier than cookies, perfectly portable, and deeply aromatic.Oranges
No rolling. No cutters. Just one pan and old-world warmth in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍊 Only 8 ingredients—pantry staples!
⏱️ 15 minutes prep, 25–30 minutes bake
💛 One 9×13-inch pan = easy cleanup
💸 Costs under $7—feeds 16+
🌾 Naturally nut-free option & easily gluten-free (use GF flour)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(9×13-inch pan; makes 16 bars)Snack Foods
For the Bars
2½ cups all-purpose flour (or GF 1:1 blend)
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
½ cup molasses (not blackstrap)
½ cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
⅓ cup candied orange peel or citron, finely chopped (traditional!)
Ingredient sourcing service
For the Orange Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp orange zest (optional but recommended)
💡 Pro Tips:Use real molasses—it gives authentic depth (avoid blackstrap—it’s too bitter).Candied citrus is key—it’s traditional in Lebkuchen; substitute with raisins if needed.Let bars cool completely before glazing—or glaze will melt.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Soft, Spiced, Foolproof)
1. Prep & Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
Cookie baking class
2. Mix Dry IngredientsWhisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
Oranges
3. Make Wet Mixture
In another bowl, beat brown sugar, molasses, honey, and eggs until smooth.
4. Combine & Fold
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
Stir in nuts and candied citrus.
5. Bake to Perfection
