A gourmet tradition rooted in nature
Lebkuchen is more than just a cookie — it's a centuries-old German delicacy crafted from a blend of premium nuts, exotic spices, and natural sweetness. Though modern baking techniques are used today, authentic Lebkuchen still follows traditional recipes passed down through generations — especially in Nuremberg, the heart of gingerbread craftsmanship.
At Lebkuchen-Schmidt, our Oblaten Lebkuchen is made using carefully selected ingredients from around the world. It’s this unique combination of flavors that gives German gingerbread its unmistakable aroma and taste.
The spices behind the magic of Nuremberg Lebkuchen
Cinnamon (Zimt)
The signature spice in all Lebkuchen varieties. The finest cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka and adds a warm, slightly sweet intensity that defines traditional German Christmas cookies.
Cloves (Nelken)
Known for their bold, slightly peppery flavor, cloves add depth and warmth. Once used for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt, they now come mainly from East Africa, Indonesia, and Brazil.
Anise
With a mild licorice-like flavor, anise has been prized since 1500 BCE. It is commonly sourced from the Mediterranean, particularly Egypt, Syria, Turkey, and Spain.
Cardamom
Part of the ginger family, cardamom provides a fresh, aromatic lift. Most of our supply comes from Guatemala, India, and Sri Lanka.
Coriander
This fragrant seed adds a citrusy, nutty undertone — widely used in European baking and often grown in Morocco, Hungary, and Eastern Europe.
Ginger
Ground from dried ginger root, it brings brightness and subtle heat to the dough. India remains the world’s leading ginger exporter.
Mace
Derived from the outer layer of the nutmeg seed, mace is softer in flavor but equally rich. Harvested in the West Indies, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
Allspice (Piment)
Often called the “four-spice” because it tastes like a blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and pepper. Mostly grown in Jamaica and Central America.
Core ingredients of traditional Lebkuchen
In addition to spices, the secret to true Nuremberg Lebkuchen lies in its natural richness and nutty complexity. Key ingredients include:
- Hazelnuts, Walnuts, Almonds – for texture and depth
- Candied Orange Peel (Orangeat) & Lemon Peel (Zitronat) – for fruity brightness
- Marzipan – adds smooth sweetness and luxury
- Honey – the original sweetener, still essential today
- Flour, Sugar, and Eggs – for structure and consistency
These ingredients are carefully balanced to create a soft, moist texture and aromatic profile that’s unlike any other gingerbread cookie.
A Recipe protected by tradition
Only products made in Nuremberg, using traditional recipes and approved processes, may be called Nuremberg Lebkuchen. At Lebkuchen-Schmidt, we honor this legacy with every batch — combining time-tested ingredients with artisan skill to deliver authentic holiday magic.
Discover our Lebkuchen Sets & Lebkuchen Chests and taste the world’s most flavorful gingerbread.
