Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 3/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 large egg

1/2 cup molasses

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the icing: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk

Directions:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.

Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.

Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the icing, mix confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies. Let icing set before serving.

Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling) | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes