Name: German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490191H55M
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 100 g buckwheat flour (or all-purpose flour); 100 g finely ground almonds (or hazelnuts); 2 tsp baking powder; 1 Tbsp cocoa powder; 4 tsp gingerbread spice; 2 tsp orange zest; 150 g date syrup (or maple syrup); 50 g almond butter (or nut/seed butter of your choice); 180-200 ml dairy-free milk; 70 g dried apricots (chopped into small pieces); 150 g dairy-free dark chocolate; 2 tsp coconut oil

There is something utterly magical about baking classic European treats, and this German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe brings that warmth and tradition right into your kitchen. These soft gingerbread cookies are a delightful blend of fragrant spices, naturally sweet dates and apricots, and a rich, gooey chocolate coating that will melt in your mouth. Whether you’re new to Lebkuchen or looking to perfect your favorite, this recipe offers a simple yet authentic taste of Germany’s beloved holiday treat that you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows ten small white bowls and dishes arranged vertically in two close columns on a white marbled surface. The first column from top to bottom contains: a bowl filled with white flour, a bowl with pale yellow powder, a small blue bowl with white salt, a small wooden bowl filled with brown powder, and a small bowl with chopped orange pieces. The second column from top to bottom contains: a small bowl with bright orange zest, a white heart-shaped dish with a thick dark brown liquid, a bowl with a creamy beige paste, a bowl with white liquid, and a small dark chocolate bar at the bottom. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe lies in a handful of ingredients that are humble but crucial. Each element adds a distinct layer—from the comforting spices and nutty flours to the luscious coatings—that creates the perfect soft and flavorful cookie.

100 g buckwheat flour (or all-purpose flour): Provides a nutty depth and tender texture to the cookies.
100 g finely ground almonds (or hazelnuts): Adds natural sweetness and moistness, essential for that soft bite.
2 tsp baking powder: Gives just the right lift without making the cookies cakey.
1 Tbsp cocoa powder: Brings subtle richness and a hint of chocolate warmth.
4 tsp gingerbread spice: The soul of the recipe, blending aromatic spices that define authentic Lebkuchen.
2 tsp orange zest: Sprinkles in fresh citrus brightness to balance the spices.
150 g date syrup (or maple syrup): Natural sweetness with a caramel undertone that keeps the cookies moist.
50 g almond butter (or nut/seed butter): Adds richness and helps bind the dough together beautifully.
180-200 ml dairy-free milk: Moistens the dough while keeping it dairy-free and tender.
70 g dried apricots (chopped into small pieces): Burst of chewy sweetness and texture contrast in every bite.
150 g dairy-free dark chocolate: For that luscious, glossy coating that takes these cookies over the top.
2 tsp coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set perfectly on the cookies.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mold

Start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). You’ll want to lightly grease a silicone cookie mold—hearts, gingerbread men, or any shape you like—because the mold ensures an even bake and that perfect soft texture. I love using fun shapes to add a festive touch to the cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the buckwheat flour, finely ground almonds, baking powder, cocoa powder, gingerbread spice, and orange zest. This blend of dry ingredients is where the distinctive flavor foundation for these soft gingerbread cookies begins. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined to spread the spices evenly.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Apricots

Now it’s time for the syrup, dairy-free milk, and almond butter to join the party. Stir them into the dry mix until it forms a thick, luscious batter. Fold in the chopped dried apricots—they bring wonderful bursts of natural sweetness and a soft chew that contrast beautifully with the tender crumb.

Step 4: Fill the Mold and Bake

Transfer the cookie batter into your prepared silicone mold, gently tapping it on the counter to release any air bubbles. This batter is thick and slightly sticky, which helps achieve those soft, chewy centers we all crave. Bake the cookies for about 16 to 18 minutes until just set and lightly firm to the touch. Don’t overbake—you want that melt-in-your-mouth softness!

Step 5: Cool and Coat with Chocolate

Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the mold and cool them on a wire rack. While they cool, melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Dip each cookie into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off before placing it on parchment paper. Chill in the fridge until the chocolate sets beautifully.

How to Serve German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate. A spoon holds a star-shaped donut coated in thick, glossy chocolate dip, partially lifted above the bowl. The bowl is placed on a light wood surface with more star-shaped donuts blurred in the background. The scene is bright with natural light highlighting the rich texture of the chocolate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic chocolate coating here is spectacular, but if you want to get fancy, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or crushed nuts on the chocolate before it sets. Orange zest or a tiny pinch of edible gold dust can also elevate the look and aroma to festive perfection.

Side Dishes

These German Lebkuchen pair beautifully with hot spiced beverages—think cinnamon tea, mulled wine, or a frothy chai latte. The warm spices of the drink complement the ginger and orange notes in the cookies. For a cooler contrast, serve alongside a dollop of coconut yogurt or a homemade vanilla cashew cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these soft gingerbread cookies on a rustic wooden board or a festive plate with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly for a seasonal touch. Gift them in little parchment-lined boxes tied with twine for a charming homemade present. You can also stack them with wax paper between layers to make a delicious edible centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) will stay soft and flavorful stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you can keep your hands off them that long! Placing a slice of bread in the container helps maintain moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze these cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours and then dip in melted chocolate if not coated yet.

Reheating

If you’d like to warm your German Lebkuchen before serving, pop them in a low oven (150 degrees Celsius or 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 5 minutes. This warms the spices and softens the cookie even more, recreating that fresh-baked magic.

FAQs

What spices are in gingerbread spice for Lebkuchen?

Traditional gingerbread spice usually includes ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger. You can easily blend these yourself to get the perfect aromatic mix that defines the character of Lebkuchen cookies.

Can I make German Lebkuchen without nuts?

Yes! To make a nut-free version, substitute the ground almonds with oat flour or extra buckwheat/all-purpose flour and use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of almond butter. The texture will still be soft and delicious.

Is date syrup necessary for this recipe?

Date syrup lends a rich, caramel-like sweetness and chewiness to the dough, but you can swap it with maple syrup or honey if you prefer. Just keep in mind these substitutions will slightly alter the flavor and moisture.

Why use a silicone mold for these cookies?

Silicone molds help shape your cookies evenly and gently, making it easier to achieve the soft texture without sticking. They come in fun shapes that add character to your German Lebkuchen and simplify removing the cookies once baked.

Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free milk?

Absolutely! Using regular milk will work just as well and can be a good option if you aren’t avoiding dairy. The cookies will stay moist and tender regardless of the milk type.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling a tray of warm, soft gingerbread cookies from the oven. This German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe is a true gem that combines fragrant spices, natural sweetness, and rich chocolate into every irresistible bite. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gift, these cookies have a way of bringing people together and sparking joy. I promise, once you make this recipe, it’ll become one of your treasured favorites to revisit year after year.

German Lebkuchen (Soft Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need