Name: Irresistibly Soft Magenbrot German Christmas Cookies to Love
Prep time: 180 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 914 min
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1 cup mixed candied citrus peel (finely chopped); 1 cup toasted ground hazelnuts (can substitute with other nuts or seeds); 3 cups flour (regular or gluten-free blend); 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lebkuchen spice mix (can substitute with pumpkin pie spice); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup milk (can use non-dairy for lactose intolerance); 1 large egg (serves as a binding agent); 1 cup icing sugar; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon small amount of water (adjust for desired glaze consistency)

The moment I bit into my first Magenbrot cookie, I was whisked away to the bustling Christmas markets of Germany, where the air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of spices and sweet confections. These soft and chewy German Christmas cookies are a true holiday treasure, boasting a rich blend of cocoa powder, candied citrus peel, and a medley of warming spices. What sets this Magenbrot recipe apart is not just its delightful flavor but also its ease of preparation; there’s no tricky shaping required, making it a perfect project for baking novices and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, the option for gluten-free adaptation means everyone can indulge in this festive treat! Are you ready to enchant your taste buds and fill your kitchen with the warmth of holiday cheer? Let’s dive into making these delicious cookies together!

Why are Magenbrot cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: These Magenbrot cookies are a cozy blend of spices, chocolate, and citrus, creating a festive explosion in every bite.

Effortless Preparation: With straightforward instructions, this recipe welcomes both beginners and experienced bakers into the holiday spirit. No complicated shaping, just roll and bake!

Gluten-Free Adaptable: Making this recipe gluten-free ensures that everyone at your holiday gathering can enjoy these delightful cookies, so no one misses out.

Perfect for Gifting: Share the joy of the season! These cookies make lovely gifts when packaged beautifully, adding a personal touch to your holiday cheer.

Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a festive treat that’s perfect any time of the day! For more variations, try making Christmas Stuffed Shells or Cheesy Christmas Lasagna to add diversity to your holiday menu.

Magenbrot German Christmas Cookie Ingredients

Discover the delightful components that make Magenbrot a holiday favorite!

For the Dough

Water – Hydration base for the dough, allowing other ingredients to blend perfectly.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and a nice texture to each bite.
Honey – Provides moisture and contributes to the chewiness of the cookies.
Mixed Candied Citrus Peel – Enhances flavor with a zesty twist; substitute with diced crystallized ginger for a different taste.
Toasted Ground Hazelnuts – Introduces a nutty depth; can be replaced with any nut or seed to cater to allergies.
Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; use regular or a gluten-free blend for gluten-free options.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses a rich chocolate flavor that complements the spices.
Lemon Zest – Brightens and uplifts the overall flavors with a fresh note.
Lebkuchen Spice Mix – Provides the distinct spiced essence; use pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice as a substitute if needed.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the cookie’s flavor profile.
Fine Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness, making every bite satisfying.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents to ensure the cookies rise and achieve the perfect fluffiness.
Milk – Contributes moisture to the dough; non-dairy milk can work well for lactose intolerance.
Egg – Serves as a binding agent, giving the cookies their desired texture.

For the Glaze

Icing Sugar – The main component for the glaze, providing that delightful sweetness.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Enhances the glaze with a chocolatey touch.
Lemon Juice – Adds a tangy twist and helps emulsify the glaze for glossy perfection.
Small amount of Water – Adjusts the glaze’s consistency; add as needed to achieve your desired thickness.

Embrace the warmth of this Magenbrot German Christmas cookie recipe and experience the cozy holiday spirit in every bite!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Magenbrot German Christmas Cookie

Step 1: Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and honey, and heat over low to medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved, stirring occasionally. This should take about 4–5 minutes. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly, around 10-15 minutes, ensuring it’s still warm to help integrate with the dry ingredients later.

Step 2: Prepare Citrus Peel
While the honey mixture cools, finely chop the mixed candied citrus peel into small pieces, allowing the vibrant flavors to release. This preparation enhances the aroma of your Magenbrot German Christmas cookie dough. Set aside the chopped citrus peel, making sure it’s ready for incorporation into your dry ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, chopped citrus peel, toasted ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, lemon zest, Lebkuchen spice mix, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until the ingredients are well integrated. The mixture should be aromatic and slightly fluffy, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm honey mixture, along with the egg and milk, into the dry mixture in the stand mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the dough comes together into a stiff but workable consistency. The Magenbrot cookie dough should be moldable without being too sticky; adjust with a little flour if necessary.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the prepared dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 5 days. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the chewiness of the cookies. Make sure to place it in a clean, cool area of the fridge, away from strong-smelling foods to preserve its delightful scents.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper. This is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring even baking of your Magenbrot German Christmas cookies. As the oven heats, prepare to shape your cookie dough with exciting anticipation!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Divide the chilled dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 11-inch long rope and then gently flatten each rope to about 1 inch thick. Space them evenly on the prepared cookie sheets for equal baking. The Magenbrot should look slightly puffed and uniform in shape, promising delicious results.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. The cookies should puff slightly but still look soft and not fully hardened; they will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as the soft texture is key to Magenbrot’s charm.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
As the cookies cool on a wire rack, prepare the glaze by whisking together icing sugar, cocoa powder, and lemon juice in a bowl. Gradually add a small amount of water while stirring until the desired smooth, glossy consistency is reached. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon but not be too runny.

Step 10: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled slightly but are still warm, generously brush the glaze over each cookie using a pastry brush. Ensure an even coating to enhance the cookies’ flavor and appearance. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before proceeding to cut the cookies into diamond shapes for an elegant presentation.

Step 11: Serve and Store
Once glazed and cut, let the Magenbrot German Christmas cookies cool completely. Serve them with warm beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful holiday treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container with wax paper layers to maintain their softness; they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks!

Storage Tips for Magenbrot German Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the Magenbrot cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Layer them with wax paper to retain their soft texture.

Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat Magenbrot cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they stay soft.

Avoiding Staleness: To keep the cookies fresh, avoid storing them in humid environments, as moisture can lead to firmness. Enjoy this delightful treat on festive occasions!

What to Serve with Soft & Spicy German Magenbrot Cookies?

Cozy up your festive gatherings by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary flavors for a truly magical experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate enhances the Magenbrot’s spiced chocolate essence, creating a heartwarming treat.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea weave perfectly with the cookie’s rich flavors, making each sip a comforting experience.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast, balancing the warm spices with its cool, creamy texture.
Citrus Fruit Salad: Fresh citrus adds brightness and a refreshing note, perfectly complementing the candied citrus peel in the cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies elevates their sweetness while adding rich, buttery notes that delight the palate.
Holiday Mulled Wine: The warming spices of mulled wine echo the cookie’s flavor profile, enhancing the festive spirit of your gathering.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese paired with fruits provides an intriguing savory-sweet contrast to the cookies.
Gingerbread Latte: This seasonal favorite captures the spirit of the holidays, harmonizing beautifully with the Magenbrot’s spice-infused goodness.
Apple Cider: Warm apple cider, with its subtle sweetness and spice, is a delightful addition that connects tradition with the joy of holiday baking.

Elevate your holiday dessert table with these perfect pairings and create lasting memories.

Magenbrot German Christmas Cookie Variations

Embrace your creativity and make these delightful Magenbrot cookies your own with these exciting twists!

Gluten-Free Flour: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, allowing everyone to enjoy this festive treat.
Nut-Free Option: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds to keep things nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies while still adding a delightful crunch.
Citrus Boost: Amp up the flavor with additional mixed candied citrus peels or even a hint of orange zest for a bright, zesty surprise in each bite.
Spice It Up: Experiment with more spices! Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth, making each bite even more comforting.
Dried Fruit Addition: Fold in dried fruits like raisins or chopped cranberries to introduce a chewy texture and sweet surprise that complements the spices beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent finish that adds a rich layer of flavor.
Chili Spice: For the adventurous, sprinkle a hint of cayenne pepper into the mix, offering a surprising kick that balances well with the sweetness.

While you’re at it, why not explore more festive recipes? Try pairing these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy night in, or whip up a batch of delicious Orange Clove Cookies for a delightful cookie exchange!

Helpful Tricks for Magenbrot Cookies

Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is stiff yet manageable before chilling; loose dough will spread and lose shape during baking.
Hazelnuts Toasting: Toast hazelnuts evenly but watch closely to prevent burning; their flavor is enhanced when they’re just golden.
Glaze Thickness: Adjust the glaze gradually by adding small amounts of water; aim for a smooth consistency that coats the cookies without dripping.
Chill Time: Allow at least 12 hours for chilling; this step is crucial to developing flavor and ensures a chewy texture in your Magenbrot cookies.
Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the baking cookies; they should puff slightly and remain soft in the center – overbaking will result in a hard cookie.

Make Ahead Options

These Magenbrot German Christmas cookies are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 5 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients together and chilling the wrapped dough in the refrigerator; this enhances the flavor and chewiness. Additionally, if you’d like, the finished cookies can be glazed and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. When ready to enjoy, simply bake the pre-chilled dough according to the instructions and glaze them while warm for those irresistible, festive vibes! With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort.

Magenbrot (German Spice Cookies) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for Magenbrot?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, ensure that your candied citrus peel is fresh and vibrant; avoid those with dark spots or a dry texture. For the nuts, go for toasted ground hazelnuts that have a nice aroma but make sure they’re not burnt. Lastly, for spices, use freshly ground cinnamon and high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the cookie’s flavor.

How should I store leftover Magenbrot cookies?
Very! Store your Magenbrot cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layered with wax paper. This will help maintain their softness. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I freeze Magenbrot cookies, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze Magenbrot cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a couple of hours, and they’ll be just as delightful as when you made them fresh!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky or loose?
If your cookie dough is too sticky or loose to work with, there’s no need to panic! Simply sprinkle a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a stiff but workable dough. Remember, a dough that’s too loose won’t hold its shape during baking, so adjust carefully!

Are Magenbrot cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you are accommodating someone with nut allergies, you can either omit the ground hazelnuts entirely or replace them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They will still maintain a lovely texture and flavor without using nuts.

Is this Magenbrot recipe safe for pets?
Not at all! This recipe includes sugar, honey, and chocolate, which are not safe for pets. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider whipping up something specially designed for furry friends using safe ingredients!