Malagasy-Inspired Aachener Printen

Ingredients

In this Malagasy-inspired version of Aachener Printen, we incorporate traditional Malagasy spices to infuse the cookies with a unique flavor profile. The addition of vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves adds warmth and depth to the cookies, giving them an exotic twist. This adaptation embraces the vibrant flavors of Madagascar while still maintaining the essence of the original German recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Aachener Printen, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey 1/4 cup (60g) honey
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds for topping Optional: 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 21g, 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, honey, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough until it comes together and forms a smooth ball.
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
5. 5.
   Cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6.
   If desired, sprinkle chopped almonds on top of the cookies.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use a good quality honey for the best flavor.
• Vanilla extract — Opt for pure vanilla extract to enhance the taste of the cookies.
• Ground cinnamon — Freshly ground cinnamon will provide a more intense flavor.
• Ground cloves — Use ground cloves sparingly as they have a strong taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon and cloves.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their texture.
• These cookies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Serving advice

Serve the Malagasy-Inspired Aachener Printen with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They can also be enjoyed as a dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. You can also drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for a touch of indulgence.