Mandelbroit: A Delightful European Cookie
Are you ready to embark on a delicious baking journey? Our Mandelbroit recipe is a delightful treat that brings a touch of European tradition into your kitchen. Perfect for sharing during the holidays or any special occasion, this cookie recipe is sure to impress with its delightful texture and rich flavor. Let’s dive into this comprehensive guide on how to make Mandelbroit from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup butter, softened 🧈
- 1 cup granulated sugar 🍚
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 🍦
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 tablespoon baking powder 🧁
- Zest of 1 lemon 🍋
- Zest of 1 orange 🍊
- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts) 🌰
Preparation Steps:
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking your Mandelbroit to golden perfection.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of an electric mixer, crack the eggs and beat them until well combined. Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the eggs. Continue beating the mixture until it is light and fluffy.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the salt, flour, and baking powder. This step helps to ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which contributes to the even rise of your cookies.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the egg mixture. Beat until just incorporated, making sure not to over-mix. The dough will start to come together and will be slightly sticky.
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Add Zests and Nuts: Gently fold in the lemon and orange zests, as well as any nuts you choose to add. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The zests will add a refreshing citrusy flavor, while the nuts bring a delightful crunch.
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Chill the Dough: The dough will be quite sticky at this point. To make handling easier, refrigerate the dough for at least a few hours or overnight if time allows. This chilling step will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.
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Shape the Dough: After chilling, lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into three equal portions and shape each portion into long rolls approximately 3 inches wide. Place these rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can leave them as straight logs or shape them into half moons if you prefer.
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Bake the Mandelbroit: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the rolls are slightly golden. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
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Slice and Second Bake: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Using a serrated knife, slice the rolls into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices back on the baking sheet. You can choose to lay them flat or stand them on their ends. If desired, sprinkle the slices with a bit of cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Crisp the Mandelbroit: Return the baking sheet to the oven, but this time turn off the heat. Leave the Mandelbroit in the oven as it cools down, or overnight if you prefer. The extended time in the oven will help the cookies become crispier and more satisfying.
Enjoying Your Mandelbroit:
Once the Mandelbroit is fully cooled and crisped, they are ready to enjoy. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat, or package them up as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. These cookies are not only delicious but also make for a charming addition to any festive occasion.
Tips for Perfect Mandelbroit:
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a different twist.
- Storage: Keep your Mandelbroit in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. They can last for several weeks, making them a great make-ahead treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1785
- Fat: 103.2g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 211.5mg
- Sodium: 969.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 188.3g
- Fiber: 9.6g
- Sugar: 69.8g
- Protein: 31.5g
This Mandelbroit recipe will yield approximately 3 dozen cookies, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying over time. With its rich flavors and crisp texture, it’s a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. Happy baking! 🥳🍪
