Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars

Name: Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 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; 1/4 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich flavors of Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars, a delightful twist on a classic holiday treat.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:39:27.342Z

These Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars combine the traditional flavors of gingerbread with rich chocolate, creating a unique dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with warm spices
Chewy texture that satisfies every craving
Perfect for sharing with family and friends during festivities

      

The History of Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages, originating in Germany. Traditionally, these spiced cookies were made by monks and often featured honey, nuts, and various herbs. Over time, different regions in Germany developed their unique recipes, incorporating local spices and flavors. Today, Lebkuchen is synonymous with Christmas, enjoyed during festive markets and family gatherings.

The addition of chocolate to Lebkuchen adds a modern twist to this classic treat. This combination of spices and rich chocolate creates a harmonious blend that appeals to both traditionalists and those seeking something new. By transforming this historical cookie into bars, we make it easier to share and enjoy with loved ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars are not just for the holiday season; they can be enjoyed all year round. Their warm spices and rich chocolate make them a versatile treat perfect for any occasion, from cozy winter gatherings to summer picnics. They also make great homemade gifts that will impress friends and family alike.

These bars can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Consider adding dried fruits or swapping out nuts for your favorite toppings. The flexibility of this recipe means you can create a unique version that reflects your taste, making it a fun and creative baking experience.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars turn out perfectly, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial. Use a kitchen scale for the dry ingredients if possible, as this will lead to more consistent results. Additionally, when creaming the butter and sugar, take your time to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy; this step is essential for the texture of the bars.

If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips or even adding a touch of espresso powder to the batter. Remember to let the bars cool completely before cutting them; this will help maintain their shape and texture. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars:

For the Bars

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 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
1/4 cup molasses
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, spices, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in nuts and chocolate chips if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares.

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Spice Lebkuchen Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy them whenever a chocolate craving strikes.

Before serving frozen bars, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their chewy texture. This makes them a convenient treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or a quick dessert option.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a few serving suggestions. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or caramel can also add a decadent touch that transforms your bars into a gourmet treat.

For a festive twist, serve them alongside a cup of spiced hot cocoa or mulled wine during the holidays. The combination of flavors will enhance the overall experience, making it a memorable moment to share with family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can use a neutral oil in place of butter, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for additional flavor.

→ How do I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.