Ina Garten Mandel Bread Recipe

Mandel bread, often referred to as the Jewish version of biscotti, is a delightful twice-baked cookie that’s crunchy yet tender. Ina Garten’s Mandel Bread is a classic recipe enriched with almonds and a touch of cinnamon, perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. This easy-to-make treat is ideal for holidays or as an everyday snack.

What is Ina Garten Mandel Bread?

Ina Garten’s Mandel Bread is a traditional Jewish cookie made with a simple dough, often flavored with almonds, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. It’s baked twice to achieve its signature crispy texture, making it perfect for dipping into hot beverages.

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• Ina Garten Chocolate Orange Cake
• Ina Garten Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread
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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• Versatile: Enjoy as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat.
• Easy to make: Straightforward recipe with pantry staples.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate.
• Long shelf life: Stays fresh for days, making it great for gifting.
• Pairs perfectly with drinks: Ideal for coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon.
• Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup.
• Eggs: 2 large.
• Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
• Almond extract: 1/2 teaspoon.
• Slivered almonds: 1/2 cup.
• Chocolate chips or raisins (optional): 1/2 cup.
• Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon.
• Sugar for topping: 2 tablespoons, mixed with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Mandel Bread

Step 1: Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and frothy. Add the oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Form the dough

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the slivered almonds and optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or raisins.

Step 5: Shape the logs

• Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 2 inches wide and 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Step 6: Bake the logs

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the logs are golden and set. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.

Step 7: Slice and bake again

• Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
• Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
• Bake for an additional 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 minutes until crisp.

Step 8: Cool and serve

• Let the mandel bread cool completely on a wire rack. Sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar topping before serving.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• Coffee or espresso: Perfect for dipping and enjoying the crunchy texture.
• Hot tea: Complements the sweetness of the mandel bread.
• Milk: A classic pairing for cookies.
• Ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for dessert.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Slice carefully: Use a serrated knife to cut the logs without crumbling.
• Adjust bake time for texture: For softer cookies, bake slightly less during the second bake.
• Store properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with flavors: Swap almonds for walnuts or pistachios, or add orange zest for a citrusy twist.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• Chocolate drizzled: Dip or drizzle the cookies with melted dark or white chocolate.
• Nut-free version: Replace almonds with dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
• Spiced up: Add nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Holiday edition: Incorporate chopped candied fruit or festive sprinkles.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Mandel Bread

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can mandel bread be made without nuts?

Yes, mandel bread can be made without nuts. Simply omit the almonds and replace them with chocolate chips, dried fruits, or other mix-ins of your choice.

How do you keep mandel bread from crumbling when slicing?

To prevent crumbling, let the baked logs cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently with a sawing motion.

Can mandel bread be frozen?

Mandel bread freezes well. Store the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How do you make mandel bread softer?

For a softer texture, reduce the second bake time slightly, baking the slices for 7–8 minutes per side instead of 10 minutes. This will result in a less crisp cookie.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Mandel Bread is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy texture, customizable flavors, and long shelf life, it’s a must-try recipe for cookie lovers.

More Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Midnight Pasta
• Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole
• Ina Garten Apple Clafoutis
• Ina Garten Pastitsio

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