Medianyky (Honey Cookies)

Russian Medianyky (Honey Cookies) Recipe with Almonds and Orange Peel

Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Medianyky, also known as Honey Cookies, are a traditional Ukrainian dessert that are popular during the holiday season. These cookies are sweet, spiced, and perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

History

Medianyky have been a part of Ukrainian cuisine for centuries. These cookies were often made during special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and holidays. The combination of honey, spices, and almonds in these cookies make them a beloved treat in Ukrainian culture.

Ingredients

4 cups Unbleached all-purpose flour
1 tsp Ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp Ground cloves
0.5 tsp Ground ginger
0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp baking powder
2 Extra Large eggs
1 cup honey
2 tbsp Chopped orange peel
1 large egg, beaten with a little water for glazing
20 blanched almonds
coarse sugar crystals

How to prepare

Sift together the flour, spices, sugar, and baking powder.
Add the eggs, honey, and orange peel, and mix to make a soft dough.
On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to about 0.5 inch thick.
Cut into shapes and place on a lightly greased or non-stick cookie sheet.
Brush each cookie with the egg wash.
Place 0.5 of an almond in the center of each cookie, and sprinkle with decorative sugar crystals.
Bake in an oven which has been preheated to 350°F (177°C) until done; about 15 minutes.
Cool on wire racks.
Store in an airtight container.

Variations

Add a pinch of ground cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
Substitute the almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty twist.
Drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together to ensure a smooth and even dough.

- Roll out the dough to a consistent thickness to ensure even baking.

- Brushing the cookies with an egg wash before baking will give them a shiny, golden finish.

- Be sure to cool the cookies on wire racks to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Medianyky with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.

Cooking Techniques

Sift the dry ingredients together for a smooth dough.

- Roll out the dough to a consistent thickness for even baking.

- Brush the cookies with an egg wash for a shiny finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or molasses as a substitute for honey.

- Swap out the orange peel for lemon or lime zest for a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Medianyky can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange Medianyky on a decorative platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Medianyky with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Medianyky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Medianyky (2 cookies) contains approximately 130 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Medianyky (2 cookies) contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Medianyky (2 cookies) contains approximately 3 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Medianyky (2 cookies) contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Medianyky contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium.

Alergens

Medianyky contain eggs, nuts (almonds), and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Medianyky are a sweet and indulgent treat that are best enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar content. They are a source of carbohydrates and fats, with small amounts of proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Medianyky are a delightful Ukrainian dessert that are perfect for enjoying during the holiday season. These sweet and spiced cookies are a treat for the senses and are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Medianyky - honey cookies. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn new recipes and techniques in the kitchen. One summer afternoon, I was visiting my Aunt Olga, who was known throughout our village for her delicious baked goods.

As I helped Aunt Olga prepare a batch of honey cookies, I watched in awe as she expertly mixed the dough and shaped it into perfect little rounds. The smell of honey and spices filled the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. I knew that I had to learn how to make these cookies for myself.

After the cookies had cooled and Aunt Olga had finished icing them with a sweet glaze, she finally revealed the secret to her recipe. She explained that the key to the perfect honey cookies was in the quality of the honey used, as well as the precise measurements of the spices. I listened intently, taking mental notes of each step in the process.

Over the following weeks, I practiced making Aunt Olga's honey cookies in my own kitchen. I experimented with different types of honey, adjusting the amount of cinnamon and ginger until I found the perfect balance of flavors. Each batch came out better than the last, and soon I was able to recreate Aunt Olga's recipe with ease.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my recipe for Medianyky. I added my own twist by incorporating a touch of orange zest into the dough, giving the cookies a bright, citrusy flavor. I shared my cookies with friends and family, receiving rave reviews for their delicious taste and delicate texture.

One day, while visiting a neighboring village, I met an elderly woman who shared with me her own version of the honey cookies. She explained that her recipe had been passed down through generations of her family, originating from a distant relative who had traveled to Ukraine many years ago.

Intrigued by the history of the recipe, I asked the woman to teach me how to make her version of Medianyky. She graciously invited me into her home, where we spent an entire afternoon baking together. As we worked side by side, she shared stories of her ancestors and their love for these traditional honey cookies.

I learned that the secret to the woman's recipe was in the addition of a special blend of spices, including nutmeg and cloves. She also revealed that she liked to sprinkle the cookies with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving, giving them a festive, snow-like appearance.

After mastering the woman's recipe, I combined elements of both Aunt Olga's and the elderly woman's versions to create my own signature honey cookies. I continued to bake them for special occasions and holidays, delighting my loved ones with their rich, sweet flavor and nostalgic charm.

To this day, whenever I make a batch of Medianyky, I am transported back to those early days in the kitchen with Aunt Olga and the elderly woman. Their guidance and wisdom have shaped my love for baking and inspired me to create new recipes of my own. I am grateful for the shared traditions and stories that have been passed down to me, and I hope to continue the legacy by teaching others how to make these beloved honey cookies for generations to come.