Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread Recipe
Quick Answer
Nürnberger Lebkuchen are soft, spiced German gingerbread cookies made with ground hazelnuts (or almonds), honey, candied citrus peel, and a blend of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg — baked on Oblaten (rice paper wafers). They're the world's oldest protected gingerbread recipe, from Nuremberg since 1395.
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Soft, spiced gingerbread rounds on an Oblate wafer — Nuremberg's most famous Christmas treat.
About This Recipe
"Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread" is a Dessert recipe that brings eggs, sugar, almond flour, mixed candied peel and Lebkuchen spice mix together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 40 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 24 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups almond flour
- 0.5 cup mixed candied peel
- 2 tsp Lebkuchen spice mix
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Oblate wafers
- chocolate glaze
Instructions
- 1
Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Fold in almond flour, candied peel, spice, and baking powder.
- 2
Spoon onto Oblate wafers in rounds. Let dry 1 hour.
- 3
Bake at 150°C for 20 minutes — they should stay soft.
- 4
Dip in chocolate glaze and let set. Store in an airtight tin for best flavor.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Eggs is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Oven work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread" is a versatile Dessert dish that pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or espresso, lightly sweetened whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or at room temperature for 1–2 days if it does not contain dairy or custard. Cover loosely so the texture stays fresh. For the best flavor, bring to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 40 minutes. It serves 24 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread?
Store leftover Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Nürnberger Lebkuchen — German Gingerbread in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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