German Gingerbread "Lebkuchen"

Method

• step 1

  In a small pot gently heat the butter, sugar and honey and stir regularly until the sugar has completely dissolved.

• step 2

  While this is happening, mix together all the other ingredients in a big bowl.

• step 3

  Then add the liquid honey/butter/sugar mix to this (you'll either need a spoon and strong arms, or a kitchen aid machine with a kneading hook attachment).

• step 4

  Now leave the dough to rest/cool down for an hour at room temperature.

• step 5

  Pre-heat your oven to 180 degrees. (160 if fan-assisted)

• step 6

  After an hour, roll out the dough to about 1cm thickness and cut out gingerbread men or any other shapes you prefer (if the dough is too sticky, place it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm-up, or knead it with your hands and add a bit more flour).

• step 7

  Place the cookies on a tray lined with baking paper, and bake for approx. 10min. (they will still be slightly soft to the touch; this is what you are aiming for!)

• step 8

  Once cool, feel free to frost them with icing, sugar pearls, or any other kinds of sweet decoration!