Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies, are a flavorful holiday treat that embodies the spirit of festive baking. Their unique blend of spices and chewy texture make them an ideal choice for gatherings, gift-giving, or cozy evenings by the fire. With their delightful chocolate-gingerbread flavor, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No complicated shaping is required; simply roll the dough into logs and slice after baking!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey, cocoa, and spices creates a rich taste that is perfect for winter celebrations.
• Versatile: Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
• Large Batch: This recipe yields 80 cookies, making it perfect for sharing or stocking up for later.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Magenbrot, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Small saucepan
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the ingredients easier and ensures a consistent dough without much effort.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for gently heating the sugar and honey mixture without boiling.
• Cookie sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.

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Ingredients

Magenbrot requires a mix of simple yet flavorful ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• flour: 3¼ cups (450gms)
• unsweetened cocoa powder: 6 tablespoons (40gms)
• baking soda: 2 teaspoons
• baking powder: 1 teaspoon
• fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon
• German Lebkuchen spice mix: 2 tablespoons
• cinnamon: 1 teaspoon

Wet Ingredients

• water: ¼ cup (60ml)
• sugar: ¾ cup (150gms)
• honey: ½ cup (170gms)
• milk: ½ cup (120ml)
• large egg: 1

Additional Ingredients

• mixed candied citrus peel: ⅔ cup (100gms), finely chopped
• toasted ground hazelnuts: 1 cup (100gms)
• lemon zest: zest of one lemon
• icing sugar/powdered sugar: 1 cup (120gms)
• unsweetened cocoa powder (for glaze): 2 tablespoons
• lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
• small amount of water, if needed

How to Make Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mixture

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and honey just until the sugar is melted—do not let it boil. Set aside to cool slightly. Finely chop the candied citrus peel.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine:
1. Flour
2. Chopped candied peel
3. Ground hazelnuts
4. Cocoa powder
5. Lemon zest
6. Spices (Lebkuchen spice mix and cinnamon)
7. Baking soda, baking powder, and salt

Mix together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour in the warm honey mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Add in:
1. The egg
2. Milk

Knead until you achieve a stiff dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill overnight or up to three days in the fridge.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Remove dough from fridge after chilling time is complete; let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two cookie sheets or line with parchment paper.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Cut chilled dough into eight wedges. Roll each wedge into a rope approximately:
– Thickness: ¾ inch (2cm)
– Length: about 11 inches (28cm)

Place ropes on prepared cookie sheets; flatten slightly with fingers.

Step 7: Bake

Bake cookies for about:
– Time: 12 to 14 minutes

They should be puffed but still soft when done.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze While Baking

While cookies bake, stir together glaze ingredients:
1. Icing sugar/powdered sugar
2. Unsweetened cocoa powder
3. Lemon juice

Add water gradually until you achieve a thick but runny glaze consistency similar to pudding.

Step 9: Glaze the Cookies

Once baked logs have cooled for about five to eight minutes, brush them with glaze until fully coated on tops and sides.

Step 10: Slice & Store

Let logs cool completely before slicing each log diagonally into about ten diamond-shaped cookies. Once icing has hardened, store cookies in an airtight tin with wax paper between layers for up to two weeks or freeze for three months.

Enjoy your homemade Magenbrot!

How to Serve Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

Magenbrot, German special occasion cookies, are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a sweet snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee or Tea: Pair Magenbrot with your favorite coffee or tea to enhance the spiced flavors of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the rich chocolate glaze on the cookies, making it a perfect winter treat.

As Holiday Gifts

• Gift Boxes: Arrange Magenbrot in decorative boxes and give them as thoughtful gifts to family and friends during the holidays.
• Cookie Tins: Layer them in a tin with wax paper to keep them fresh, making an ideal present for cookie lovers.

On Cookie Platters

• Holiday Cookie Tray: Include Magenbrot on a festive cookie platter alongside other holiday treats for an appealing dessert display.
• Themed Dessert Table: Create a themed table with various types of cookies, showcasing Magenbrot as a star attraction.

How to Perfect Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

To ensure your Magenbrot turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and high-quality honey for the best flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill overnight enhances the flavors and makes it easier to handle.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove them from the oven while they’re still soft for that chewy texture.
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add water slowly until you reach a pudding-like consistency for easy coating.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

Magenbrot can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Magenbrot. Use seasonal fruits for extra sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with the spice of the cookies and offers a nice balance.
3. Spiced Nuts: Add some crunch with spiced nuts that enhance the flavors of cinnamon and cocoa found in Magenbrot.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of the cookies.
5. Warm Cinnamon Apples: Serve sautéed apples sprinkled with cinnamon as a warm side dish that echoes the spices in Magenbrot.
6. Mulled Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider creates a cozy atmosphere when served alongside these delicious cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Be sure to chill your dough overnight for best results.
• Incorrect ingredient measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin your cookie texture. Always measure ingredients carefully using a kitchen scale or measuring cups.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking them too long will make your Magenbrot hard instead of soft and chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re puffed but still soft.
• Not using fresh spices: Old spices can dull the flavor of your cookies. Check the freshness of your spices before using and replace any that are past their prime.
• Ignoring glaze consistency: A glaze that’s too thick won’t coat well, while one that’s too thin will run off. Adjust with water gradually until you reach a pudding-like consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Magenbrot in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

• Wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for optimal softness.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overdo it.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies:

Can I make Magenbrot gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends to create delicious gluten-free Magenbrot.

How do I achieve a shinier glaze on my cookies?

To get a shinier finish on your glaze, add a small amount of corn syrup or honey to the mixture before applying it to the warm cookies.

What can I use instead of candied citrus peel?

If you don’t have candied citrus peel, finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries can work well as alternatives.

How should I store my baked Magenbrot?

Magenbrot should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, Magenbrot can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Magenbrot, German special occasion Cookies are not just delightful treats; they also offer endless customization options. From adjusting spice levels to trying different glazes, these cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with these soft and chewy delights!