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Magenbrot (A Soft & Spicy German Christmas Cookie)

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Magenbrot is a soft, spiced German Christmas cookie similar to gingerbread, flavored with warming spices, cocoa, and finished with a sweet sugar glaze. Traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season, especially at Christmas markets.

Ingredients

  • 2¾ cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¾ cup (180ml) milk
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup (60ml) honey
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the glaze:
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (60ml) water
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, butter, and honey. Heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
  5. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log about 1½ inches (4 cm) in diameter.
  6. Place the logs onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until set and slightly firm to the touch.
  7. Let the logs cool slightly, then cut them diagonally into ½-inch slices.
  8. For the glaze, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
  9. Toss the warm cookies in the glaze until well coated. Spread them out on a rack or parchment to dry.

Notes

  • The cookies will firm up as they dry and become chewy inside.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; flavor improves over time.
  • You can double the recipe for a larger batch.
  • Perfect for holiday gifting or cookie platters.

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