Jewish Chocolate Chip Mandel Bread

Mandel bread, also known as mandelbrot, is a twice-baked cookie with roots in Eastern European Jewish cuisine. The word “mandel” is Yiddish for “almond,” often a key ingredient in traditional recipes. Mandel bread is loved for its crisp texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. It holds significance in Jewish culture, frequently served during holidays and special occasions.

Mandel bread shares similarities with Italian biscotti. Both are twice-baked for extra crunch and have long shelf lives. However, mandel bread typically has a softer texture compared to the harder biscotti. While biscotti often feature anise, mandel bread’s dominant flavors often stem from nuts and dried fruits.

About the Recipe

This chocolate chip mandel bread recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic. It’s easy to follow and delivers a delightful balance of sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Instead of traditional almonds, this recipe uses semi-sweet chocolate chips for a crowd-pleasing flavor. You can also easily adapt it by using raisins, nuts, or other dried fruits.

My grandmother, who emigrated from Poland, always baked mandel bread for special occasions. Her recipe has been passed down through my family, and I’ve made a few minor tweaks over the years. This version is my go-to, bringing back those warm memories of her kitchen with every bite. Whether you’re familiar with mandel bread or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Substitutes and Variations

• Chocolate chips: Swap for raisins, chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds are classic), dried cranberries, or a mix!
• Spices: Experiment with a touch of nutmeg or cardamom.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Egg-free: Explore egg substitute options designed for baking.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix! Fold in the chocolate chips (or your chosen add-ins).

5. Shape the loaves: Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.

6. First bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 10-15 minutes.

7. Reduce oven temperature: Lower the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C).

8. Slice and second bake: Using a serrated knife, slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lay the slices cut-side down on the baking sheets. Bake for 15-20 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.

9. Let cool completely: Transfer the mandel bread slices to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

• Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter helps create a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough mandel bread.
• Cooling time: Adequate cooling after the first bake makes slicing easier.
• Watch for doneness: The second bake is mainly for drying out the slices. Adjust the time based on your desired level of crispness.

Cooking Process

1. First Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the mandel bread loaves for 25-30 minutes. They should be a lovely golden brown color and slightly firm when gently pressed in the center.
   • Remove the loaves from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10-15 minutes on the baking sheets. This cooling time helps make the loaves easier to slice.

2. Reduce Oven Temperature:

   • Lower the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C). This lower temperature is vital for the second bake, which is focused on drying and crisping the slices.

3. Slice the Loaves:

   • Once slightly cooled, use a serrated knife to carefully slice each loaf diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. This is the traditional way to cut mandel bread.

4. Second Bake:

   • Arrange the slices, cut-side down, on the baking sheets.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to turn golden and attain a perfectly crisp texture.

How to Tell When Mandel Bread is Done

The finished mandel bread should have a deep golden-brown color and be very dry and crisp throughout. If you gently tap a slice, it should give a solid, almost hollow sound. If there’s any softness in the center, continue baking for a few more minutes on each side.

Tips:

• Baking Sheet Placement: Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the second bake for even browning.
• Desired Crispness: Adjust the second bake time to match your preference. A slightly longer bake will yield extra-crispy mandel bread.
• Oven Variations: All ovens vary slightly, so minor adjustments to temperature and timings may be needed for your ideal result.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve Mandel Bread

Mandel bread is incredibly versatile and delicious with a variety of beverages:

• Coffee or Tea: The classic pairing! Mandel bread is a delightful accompaniment for your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
• Dessert: Enjoy a slice or two as a sweet treat on its own.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble mandel bread over ice cream or yogurt for satisfying crunch.
• Dipping: For the ultimate indulgence, dip your mandel bread in melted chocolate.

Storage Tips for Freshness

To maintain optimal freshness, follow these storage tips:

• Cool completely: Ensure your mandel bread has completely cooled before storing it for the best texture.
• Airtight container: Store the mandel bread slices in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Layering: Place parchment paper or wax paper between layers of mandel bread if stacking them in the container.
• Freshness: Properly stored mandel bread will keep its crispness for up to a week.

Freezing: If you want to enjoy your mandel bread later, it freezes beautifully! Wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen mandel bread will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Customizations and Variations

This mandel bread recipe provides a delicious base for endless customization. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Mix-ins: Swap the chocolate chips for dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, pistachios, almonds, or your favorite nuts.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cardamom, pumpkin pie spice, or other warm spices for a twist.
• Citrus twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright citrusy flavor.
• Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle the mandel bread with melted white or dark chocolate for extra decadence.
• Holiday variations: Use festive add-ins like peppermint chips and crushed candy canes for Christmas, or colorful sprinkles for birthdays. Get creative!

Adapting for Occasions

Mandel bread is perfect for various occasions:

• Coffee breaks: Serve alongside your favorite hot beverage for a satisfying snack.
• Gifting: Package slices beautifully for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Celebrations: Offer mandel bread as a special treat for holidays or parties.

FAQs

What is the difference between mandel bread and biscotti?

Mandel bread and biscotti are both twice-baked cookies known for their satisfying crunch. However, there are a few key differences:

• Texture: Mandel bread is traditionally a bit softer and more cake-like than the very hard biscotti.
• Fat content: Mandel bread recipes generally include more fat (such as oil or butter), contributing to its softer texture.
• Flavorings: Biscotti often feature anise flavoring, while mandel bread’s primary flavors usually come from nuts, dried fruits, and spices.

How long does homemade mandel bread last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, homemade mandel bread can stay fresh and crisp for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

What variations can I try?

The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Nuts and Dried Fruits: Swap the chocolate chips for walnuts, pecans, almonds, dried cranberries, apricots, or a combination.
• Spices: Add warmth with cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice.
• Chocolate: Experiment with white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the finished slices.
• Holiday-themed: Get creative with festive add-ins for different holidays and celebrations.

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