Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies, are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of the holiday season right into your kitchen. These traditional spice cookies boast a soft and chewy texture, complemented by a rich chocolate-gingerbread flavor. Perfect for gift-giving or holiday gatherings, Magenbrot are easy to make and can even be adapted for gluten-free diets. Their unique combination of spices and sweet glaze makes them an irresistible addition to any festive table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: No complex shaping required; just roll, bake, and slice.
• Delicious Flavor: A perfect blend of spices and sweetness that embodies holiday cheer.
• Versatile Treat: Great for gifting, parties, or enjoying with a cup of tea.
• Large Yield: Makes 80 cookies, ensuring plenty to share or enjoy throughout the season.
• Customizable Ingredients: Can easily be adapted to suit gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Magenbrot, you will need some essential tools for efficient preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Small saucepan
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Plastic food wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Helps in easily kneading the dough to the right consistency.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for melting sugar and honey without boiling, preventing caramelization.
• Cookie sheets: Provides a stable baking surface to ensure even baking of cookies.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

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

Dry Ingredients

• ⅔ cup (100gms) mixed candied citrus peel
• 1 cup (100gms) toasted, ground hazelnuts
• 3¼ cups (450gms) flour
• 6 tablespoons (40gms) unsweetened cocoa powder
• zest of one lemon
• 2 tablespoons German Lebkuchen spice mix
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Icing Ingredients

• 1 cup (120gms) icing sugar/powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• a 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 until the sugar melts. Do not let it boil. Once melted, set it aside to cool slightly. Finely chop the mixed candied citrus peel.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, chopped candied peel, ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, lemon zest, spices (Lebkuchen spice mix and cinnamon), baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour in the cooled honey mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until combined. Then add in the egg and milk. Knead until you form a stiff dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic food wrap or place it in a sealed container. Chill overnight or up to 3-4 days for best flavor development.

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Remove the dough from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper.

Step 6: Shape Cookie Logs

Cut the chilled dough into 8 wedges. Roll each wedge into a rope approximately ¾-inch (2cm) thick and about 11 inches (28cm) long. Place these ropes on your prepared cookie sheets and flatten them slightly with your fingers.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes until they puff up but remain soft inside.

Step 8: Prepare Chocolate Lemon Glaze

While cookies are baking, mix together icing ingredients—icing sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, lemon juice—with enough water added gradually to achieve a thick but runny consistency similar to pudding.

Step 9: Glaze Cookies

Once baked logs have cooled for about 5-8 minutes out of the oven, brush them generously with your chocolate lemon glaze coating all sides thoroughly. If there are thin spots after glazing once, feel free to add a second coat.

Step 10: Cut Cookies

Allow logs to cool completely before cutting each log diagonally into approximately ten diamond-shaped cookies.

Step 11: Store Your Cookies

After glazing hardens completely on cookies, store them in an airtight tin lined with wax paper between layers. They can stay fresh in a cool place for up to two weeks or can be frozen for three months.

Enjoy making these delightful Magenbrot cookies this holiday season!

How to Serve Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

Magenbrot, with their rich flavors and delightful texture, can be served in various ways to enhance your holiday gatherings. Whether you are hosting a festive party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious cookies.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee complement the spices in Magenbrot perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: Pairing Magenbrot with creamy hot chocolate creates a festive treat that delights both kids and adults.
• Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea brings out the cookie’s aromatic notes beautifully.

As Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookie Tray: Combine Magenbrot with other holiday cookies for a colorful dessert spread that appeals to everyone.
• Cheese Board: Add Magenbrot alongside soft cheeses for an unexpected yet delightful flavor contrast.

Gift Giving

• Decorative Boxes: Package Magenbrot in pretty boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.
• Cookie Jars: Fill glass jars with these cookies for a charming and tasty gift option that friends will love.

How to Perfect Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

To ensure your Magenbrot turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips. Each step contributes to achieving the ideal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your spices and baking powder are fresh for the best flavor and rise.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill overnight enhances the flavors and helps maintain its shape while baking.
• Maintain Correct Temperature: Bake at 350°F (180°C) to achieve soft yet slightly puffed cookies without overcooking them.
• Coat While Warm: Brush on the glaze while the logs are still warm to ensure a beautiful finish that adheres well.
• Storage Matters: Keep cookies in an airtight tin with layers of wax paper to retain moisture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

Magenbrot pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of Magenbrot.
2. Spiced Nuts – Crunchy, roasted nuts seasoned with warm spices add texture and contrast.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with berries offers a creamy complement to the chewy cookies.
4. Gingerbread Ice Cream – This indulgent ice cream echoes the flavors of Magenbrot for a delightful combination.
5. Cinnamon Apple Compote – A warm apple compote spiced with cinnamon enhances the holiday spirit when served alongside.
6. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of Magenbrot into melted chocolate for a decadent treat that’s fun to share.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Wrong dough consistency: If your dough is too sticky or too dry, it won’t hold its shape. Adjust flour or liquid as needed.
• Skipping the chill time: Not allowing the dough to chill can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Plan ahead and let it rest overnight.
• Incorrect baking temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may result in cookies that are underbaked or burnt. Always preheat your oven properly.
• Neglecting the glaze: A good glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; take your time to achieve the right consistency.
• Improper storage: Storing cookies in an airtight container without wax paper can lead to sogginess. Layer them with wax paper for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks when refrigerated.

Freezing Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.

Reheating Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Use low power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies.

Can I make Magenbrot without gluten?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour blends as a substitute in this recipe, and they turn out deliciously soft and chewy.

What spices should I use for Magenbrot?

The traditional spice mix includes cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. You can adjust these according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to prepare Magenbrot?

The total preparation time is around 30 minutes, but remember to chill the dough overnight for the best texture.

How many cookies does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes about 80 Magenbrot cookies, perfect for sharing during the holiday season!

Can I customize my Magenbrot?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different spices based on your taste. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

Magenbrot, German Special Occasion Cookies, offer a delightful combination of spices and textures that capture the essence of holiday baking. They are not only easy to make but also highly customizable based on your preferences. Whether you stick to traditional flavors or experiment with new additions, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.