Austrian Christmas celebrations are truly magical, filled with the sweet scents of cinnamon, cloves, and almonds. One treat that stands out during this festive time is the delightful Marzipanwaffeln, or Marzipan Waffles. These waffles are a perfect blend of rich marzipan and crispy waffle goodness, making them a must-have for your holiday spread. Whether you enjoy them on a chilly morning with a cup of hot cocoa or as a cozy dessert after a hearty dinner, Marzipan Waffles are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.
**Marzipanwaffeln – Marzipan Waffles**
**Ingredients:**
– 200g marzipan paste
– 3 large eggs
– 100g granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 250ml whole milk
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Butter, for greasing the waffle iron
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a mixing bowl, grate the marzipan paste using the large holes of a box grater. This will make it easier to incorporate into the batter later on.
2. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. To the marzipan in the mixing bowl, add the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until creamy and well combined.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to beat the mixture. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny at this point.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix the batter.
6. Gently fold in the whipped egg whites until no white streaks remain. This step will add airiness to the batter, resulting in lighter waffles.
7. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Grease the iron with butter to prevent sticking.
8. Spoon the batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading it out evenly. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
9. Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the iron as needed.
10. Dust the warm Marzipan Waffles with powdered sugar before serving. You can also top them with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds for an extra festive touch.
Marzipan Waffles are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can also store any leftovers in an airtight container once cooled. Simply reheat them in a toaster or oven for a crispy texture. These waffles make a lovely addition to any holiday brunch or dessert table and are sure to impress your guests with their delicious almond flavor and delicate texture. So, gather your loved ones around, whip up a batch of Marzipan Waffles, and savor the joy of the season with each delightful bite. Indulge in the warmth and sweetness of these Austrian-inspired treats, and let the magic of Christmas come alive in your home.
