In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. The blend of spices is what gives Lebkuchen its signature aroma and depth of flavor — warm, slightly peppery, and rich.
Step 2: Heat the Honey Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the honey and brown sugar. Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar fully dissolves into the honey. Avoid boiling the mixture — you want it warm and smooth, not caramelized.
Once the mixture is uniform and glossy, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes to prevent cooking the egg in the next step.
Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg into the slightly cooled honey mixture until fully combined.
Add the dry ingredients to the bowl in batches, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. The dough should be thick but pliable and slightly glossy from the honey.
Fold in the chopped nuts and candied orange or lemon peel, mixing until evenly distributed. These add texture and a sweet, fruity brightness that balances the spice.
