An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
An undated photo shows German gingerbread hearts. /CFP
Spotted at open-air markets across Germany, lebkuchenherzen, or gingerbread hearts, are a cherished treat during festivals and holidays like Christmas and Oktoberfest. Tracing their roots back to ancient Egypt, today's gingerbread hearts offer sweet and spicy flavors, as well as colorful icing and are often seen hanging from ribbons in clusters in markets. Nuts, candied orange, lemon peel and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, coriander, ginger, star anise and nutmeg give this cookie a distinctive and unforgettable taste.