[PW] Nut-free substitute for ground almonds in Lebkuchen recipe

[Nina Gilbert]

Short version of my question:  in a cookie-type recipe that includes ground almonds along with flour, is there a substitute for the almonds that maintains the character of the recipe?

Background:  as part of our study guide for our upcoming production of "Hansel and Gretel," we're including recipes for American gingerbread and German Lebkuchen (the original German gingerbread from the libretto).  Teachers and parents use our study guide, and I'm guessing teachers won't use any recipe with nuts because so many children are allergic these days.

Where I've looked:  every Lebkuchen recipe I can find, plus sources on allergy-free cooking and substitution.  I've gotten as far as knowing that I want something to replace what the ground almonds add to a recipe that calls for three parts flour and one part ground almonds.  I'm going to experiment with rice flour, corn oil, and extra spices (for texture, chemistry, and taste, respectively), but I would love to learn from someone else who's figured this out.
 
Thank you,

Nina Gilbert
Education and Community Programs Manager, Boston Lyric Opera


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Nina Gilbert
ninagilbert at yahoo.com