Malaysian Indian Spiced Lebkuchen

Ingredients

In this Malaysian Indian adaptation of Lebkuchen, we incorporate the distinct flavors of Malaysian Indian cuisine. The original Lebkuchen is traditionally spiced with gingerbread spices, while our version includes a blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves to infuse it with the aromatic essence of Malaysian Indian dishes. Additionally, we incorporate coconut, almonds, and cashews to add a unique texture and nutty flavor to the Lebkuchen. We alse have the original recipe for Lebkuchen, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (30g) desiccated coconut 1/4 cup (30g) desiccated coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped cashews 1/4 cup (30g) chopped cashews
• 1 tablespoon (15g) ground cardamom 1 tablespoon (15g) ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking soda 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 16g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, vegetable oil, and milk until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the desiccated coconut, chopped almonds, and chopped cashews until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Using wet hands, shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the Lebkuchen turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the Lebkuchen cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use a good quality honey for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Cardamom — For a more intense flavor, grind whole cardamom pods instead of using pre-ground cardamom.
• Desiccated coconut — Toast the coconut in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown for added depth of flavor.
• Almonds and cashews — Roast the nuts in the oven for a few minutes before chopping them to enhance their nuttiness.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground cardamom and cinnamon.
• For a festive touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled Lebkuchen.
• Store the Lebkuchen in an airtight container to keep them fresh and maintain their chewy texture.
• Serve the Lebkuchen with a cup of masala chai for a perfect pairing.
• These spiced Lebkuchen make a wonderful homemade gift during the holiday season.

Serving advice

Serve the Malaysian Indian Spiced Lebkuchen as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They are perfect for festive occasions, afternoon snacks, or as a sweet ending to a Malaysian Indian-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Spiced Lebkuchen on a platter and sprinkle them with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish them with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts to add visual appeal.