Mandel Bread(An Old Family Recipe)
A delightful Mandel Bread with raisins and nuts, flavored with lemon and orange juices, baked to a golden crisp. Perfect for family gatherings and sweet snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ingredients in the order given: eggs, sugar, oil, salt, flour, baking powder, raisins, nuts, lemon juice, and orange juice.
- Grease a four-sided cookie sheet lightly with oil.
- With a teaspoon, spoon out three long strips lengthwise onto the prepared cookie sheet.
- Put any leftover dough on top of the strips.
- Fill a glass with cold water; with your fingertips, pat the top of the strips to flatten slightly.
- Sprinkle the top with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from oven, cut at an angle, and lift off the pan.
- For crunchier texture, turn each piece on its side and bake for 6 minutes on each side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the oil with melted butter. If you prefer, you can replace the raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different twist. Ensure you sift the flour well to avoid lumps and achieve a lighter texture. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile, providing a warm spice note.
Serving Suggestions
Mandel Bread is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. Consider serving alongside a light fruit salad or with a spread of Leek Dip for a contrasting flavor. You can also enjoy it as a sweet addition to a brunch spread, complementing other desserts like Old England Poppy Seed Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mandel Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandel Bread(An Old Family Recipe) contains roughly 1533 calories, with 22g protein, 220g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (51% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1875mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Mandel Bread without nuts?
Yes, you can easily make Mandel Bread nut-free by omitting the walnuts. You may substitute with additional raisins or even coconut flakes for added texture. Just ensure to adjust the baking time slightly if the dough becomes too wet or dry.
How do I know when the Mandel Bread is done baking?
The Mandel Bread is done when it is golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. Additionally, you can insert a toothpick into the middle; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. Remember to cut it while warm for cleaner slices.
Can I add additional flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your Mandel Bread by adding vanilla extract or almond extract to the mixture. A teaspoon of orange zest or lemon zest can also provide a refreshing citrus note that complements the juices already in the recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).