Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars
Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection
These Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and warm spices, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars combine the festive flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and rich chocolate into a wonderfully moist treat. Perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying with a cup of coffee!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with warm spices
- Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for holiday celebrations or as a sweet treat
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars are the quintessential holiday treat that brings together the comforting flavors of chocolate and spices. As the festive season approaches, these bars can serve as a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Their soft and chewy texture makes them ideal for sharing with loved ones, and their unique flavor profile is sure to impress your guests.
Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to indulge in a sweet treat, these Lebkuchen bars are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Their rich chocolate flavor balanced with warm spices creates an irresistible combination that evokes the spirit of the season. Plus, they are easy to make, ensuring that you can whip up a batch in no time.
Healthier Indulgence
One of the best aspects of these Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars is that they can be enjoyed without a hint of guilt. Made with wholesome ingredients like honey and brown sugar, they provide a natural sweetness that is far more appealing than refined sugars. This means you can satisfy your sweet tooth while still being mindful of your health.
In addition, the inclusion of spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cloves not only enhances the flavor but also offers potential health benefits. These spices are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. By choosing these bars, you're indulging in a dessert that is not only delicious but also contributes to your overall well-being.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to fit your preferences, and these Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars are no exception. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins such as nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the icing for an extra flavor kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a version of these bars that is uniquely yours.
Moreover, these bars can be easily transformed into a delightful gift. Simply cut them into squares, package them in a decorative box, and share them with friends and family. They also store well, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or for satisfying late-night cravings. With their versatility, these bars are not just a recipe but a canvas for your creativity.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup honey
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, spices, and salt.
Mix Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Honey
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and honey until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Ice
Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing. Mix the icing ingredients and drizzle over the cooled bars.
Let the icing set before cutting the bars into squares.
Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for about two weeks without losing their delightful flavor and texture.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the bars before icing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and ice them before serving. This makes it easy to have a delicious treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.
Pairing Suggestions
These Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The rich chocolate and spices complement the robust flavors of your favorite brew, creating a comforting experience that is perfect for cozy afternoons. Consider serving them alongside a spiced chai or a smooth latte for an indulgent treat.
For a festive twist, try pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess balances the rich flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Additionally, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top can enhance the holiday spirit, making these bars an even more special dessert.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
→ How do I store leftover bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
→ What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey.
Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars
These Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and warm spices, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dessert Lover’s Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup honey
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, spices, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and honey until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing. Mix the icing ingredients and drizzle over the cooled bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g