Spice Cake

Lebkuchen is similar to gingerbread, but made with nutmeg instead of ginger.

For the cake:

2 tablespoons butter
2/3 cup honey
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 egg
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup chopped mixed candied fruits
2 tablespoons cherry brandy (kirsch or Kirschwasser)

For the lemon icing:

1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon juice

To make the spice cake: In a small saucepan melt butter. Add honey and brown sugar; heat through until sugar is dissolved. Cool completely.

In large mixing bowl combine flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and nutmeg. Add cooled butter mixture and egg; mix completely. Fold in almonds, candied fruits, and cherry brandy.

Spread batter on lightly greased 15x10x1-inch baking sheet. Place baking sheet in centre of cooking grate. Cook 15 to 20 minutes.

To make the lemon icing: In a small bowl combine all icing ingredients; beat until smooth.

Remove cake from grill and immediately cut into desired shapes—such as circles, squares, or hearts—with cookie cutters or the tip of a knife. Brush with lemon icing while shapes are still hot.

Makes about 36 two-inch square shapes.