A Behind the Scenes Look at Caroline Schneider's Kitchen

Do you recognize these treats?

They're traditional German cookies called "lebkuchen", and despite their humble appearance, they pack a serious punch of spicy sweetness.

Lebkuchen recipes are pretty involved, calling for a long list of ingredients include candied citron, almonds, cinnamon, and kirsch (cherry liqueur) among many other things. They would have been served by Caroline Schneider, who ran a 19th century German beer saloon at 97 Orchard Street with her husband John. Caroline managed all the cooking for the saloon, playing an important role in keeping the customers happy and the business competitive. We'll be exploring the history of Schneider's saloon as part of our upcoming "Shop Life" exhibit.

Check out the video below for more information and an invitation to our upcoming Tenement Talk on April third with Vice President of Education Annie Polland and Museum Educator and Historic Gastronomist Sarah Lohman. Annie and Sarah will give us a fascinating (and delicious) first look at Caroline's kitchen!

-- Posted by Public Relations Manager Kira Garcia