Title: Lebkuchen (Spice Bars)
Categories: German, Cookies
Yield: 12 servings
1 ts Cinnamon 1/2 c Almonds, Ground
1 ts Allspice; Ground 1 ts Lemon Rind; Grated
1/4 ts Cloves; Ground 2 ea Eggs; Large
1/2 ts Salt 3/4 c Sugar
2 1/4 c Flour; Unbleached, Unsifted 3/4 c Honey
1/2 ts Baking Powder 1/2 c Milk
--------------------------------ALMOND GLAZE--------------------------------
1 c Confectioners' Sugar 1 ts Rum
1/2 ts Almond Extract 1 tb ;Water
Stir together the spices, salt flour, and baking powder. Stir in the
almonds and lemon rind. In a separate bowl beat the eggs and sugar until
a ribbon is formed when the beater is removed. Stir in the honey and
milk. Gradually stir in the flour mixture; beat until smooth. Spread the
batter in an 11 X 17-inch jelly roll pan that is well greased and floured.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cake is done.
While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a wire rack. To make the
almond glaze, mix the confectioners' sugar, almond extract, rum, and 1 to
2 T of water. Beat until glaze is smooth and of the right consistency.
Add more water to thin if neccessary. Spread the warm cake with the
almond glaze. Cut cake into 1 X 2 1/2-inch bars while still warm. Spice
bars keep 6 to 8 weeks in a sealed container if not glazed.
Makes 4 dozen bars.
