Lebkuchen (German Spice Cookies)

Ingredients:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp ground allspice
1 cup honey
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups ground almonds
½ cup candied orange peel, finely chopped

Instructions:
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. Set aside.

Step 2:
In a saucepan, heat the honey and sugar over low heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3:
In a large bowl, beat the egg, then slowly add the cooled honey mixture, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, followed by the ground almonds and candied orange peel. Mix until combined.

Step 4:
Cover the dough and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 5:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet, flattening each slightly with your hand.

Step 6:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and firm to the touch. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7:
Optional: Glaze the cookies with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and water for an extra touch of sweetness.

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