Honey Lebkuchen with Ginger, Cinnamon and Cloves

Name: Honey Lebkuchen with Ginger, Cinnamon and Cloves
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 340 g honey; 100 g dark brown sugar; 115 g unsalted butter; 2 whole large eggs; 440 g all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp fine salt; 1 tsp orange zest, optional; 1 tsp lemon zest, optional

Honey-sweetened German gingerbread with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves.

By Hez ArslanUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 1 hr 40 minMakes 24 cookies

Jump to Recipe

These soft German-style lebkuchen are fragrant with honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. Chill the dough until firm enough to roll, then bake just until set to keep the centres tender. Gently warm honey and butter in a saucepan until melted. Stir in brown sugar and cool until just warm. Whisk eggs into honey mixture. In another bowl combine flour, baking soda, spices, salt and citrus zest. Mix dry ingredients into wet to form soft dough. Cover dough and chill at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll dough 1 cm thick and cut into shapes. Place on lined trays and bake 12 to 15 minutes until set but still soft. Cool completely before icing.

Honey Lebkuchen with Ginger, Cinnamon and Cloves

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender, set or golden as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before beginning.
Use even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool and store leftovers promptly.

Troubleshooting

If mixture is too thick, add liquid gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
Choose compatible alternatives for dietary needs.

Variations

Adjust spices to your preference.
Add citrus zest for a brighter flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
Pair with tea, coffee or a suitable drink.
Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
Serve warm or chilled as directed.

Make ahead

Measure ingredients ahead and refrigerate perishable components; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains wheat, egg and dairy. Do not serve honey to infants under 12 months.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.

How should I store german lebkuchen gingerbread?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and store leftovers safely.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

Honey Lebkuchen with Ginger, Cinnamon and Cloves