Lebkuchen

A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cookie, Lebkuchen is made with molasses and candied citrus. Some equate it to fruit cake in cookie form. However, it has a lovely anise flavor to it, which as a kid I did not like. But now, as an adult who has found a love of absinthe, I found I enjoy them. They are better in drink form, though.

Lebkuchen

Preserved citrus and cherry syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup sorghum
• 4 lemons, thinly sliced
• 1 jar maraschino cherries, drained
• 1 orange peel (peeled with vegetable peeler)

Combine all ingredients in a sauce pan. Boil until lemon rind and orange peel begin to look translucent. Make sure to stir often so sugar does not burn. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

The drink:

• 1 ounce Root Liqueur
• 1 ounce Snap Liqueur
• 1 ounce citrus syrup
• 1 dash orange bitters
• 1 dash cherry bitters
• 1 drop orange water
• 2 ounces bourbon
• Splash of soda

Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass with ice, stir and add a splash of soda.

– Andrew Noye, Blackberry Farm Beverage Manager and Mixologist