Bernibas Atminas Prjaniki

This delightful dessert conjures childhood memories with its comforting aroma and rich flavors. Combining a medley of honey, butter, and delicate spices, these prjaniki are perfect for a tea-time treat or festive occasion. The dough is easy to work with, allowing you to create a variety of shapes and sizes to suit your personal taste. The secret to their irresistible texture lies in the combination of cornmeal and wheat flour, providing a subtle crunch with every bite. A generous coating of melted chocolate and lemon glaze adds a touch of decadence, perfectly complementing the mild sweetness of the prjaniki. Whether you opt to add spices like ginger, cinnamon, or cardamom, or enjoy them in their pure form, these treats are sure to impress. Children and adults alike will delight in their soft, tender crumb and heavenly aroma. As you bake these prjaniki, you'll find the process both relaxing and rewarding. Invite loved ones to join in on the fun, transforming your kitchen into a haven of warmth and laughter. Experience a taste of nostalgia and share the joy with family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 75g butter or margarine
• 1 cup sugar (250ml), divided
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa (optional, up to 2-3 tablespoons)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup wheat flour, plus more until the dough is kneadable

Optional Spices

• Ginger
• Cinnamon
• Cardamom

Preparation Time

Total: Approximately 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. In a bowl, mix the egg with half a cup of sugar until well combined. Add the soft butter or margarine at room temperature and sour cream, stirring to create a smooth mixture.
2. In a pan, melt the remaining sugar, then add honey. Once fully melted, carefully add water slowly to avoid splattering. Let the syrup bubble until it's ready.
3. Pour the syrup into the egg and butter mixture, stirring thoroughly to incorporate.
4. Mix baking soda with one cup of cornmeal and cocoa (if using), and add to the wet mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Gradually add wheat flour, mixing until a soft, kneadable dough forms.
6. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the moisture and swell.
7. Shape the dough into small balls or roll it out and cut into shapes using cookie cutters, as desired.
8. Place the prjaniki on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 20 minutes. Timing may vary based on size, so keep an eye on them.
9. Once the prjaniki appear dry, they are ready. Allow them to cool completely.
10. For the glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with powdered sugar until thick. Brush this over the cooled prjaniki.
11. Add a layer of melted chocolate for an indulgent finish.
12. Serve and enjoy the prjaniki with tea or coffee.

Tips

• Substitutions: If cornmeal is unavailable, use additional wheat flour.
• Spices: Customize flavors with your choice of ginger, cinnamon, or cardamom.
• Baking: Monitor the prjaniki closely as baking time can vary by size.

Nutritions

Optional: This section can include nutritional information for calories, protein, fats, and carbohydrates.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives.
• Vegan: Substitute egg with flaxseed meal and use plant-based margarine.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of warm tea or coffee.
• Decorate with additional sprinkles or nuts for extra texture.

Best Places

1. Prjaniki Bakery - Specializes in traditional prjaniki with creative twists. Location: 123 Sweet Lane, Moscow, Russia.
2. Honey Hearts Café - Known for their honey-infused prjaniki. Location: 456 Buzz Street, Warsaw, Poland.
3. The Spice House - Incorporates unique spice blends in their desserts. Location: 789 Aroma Avenue, Istanbul, Turkey.
4. Little Dough Corner - Offers a quaint setting with homemade prjaniki and other baked goods. Location: 101 Pastry Place, Riga, Latvia.
5. Sugar & Spice Shop - Features both classic and gourmet versions. Location: 202 Dessert Drive, Prague, Czech Republic.
6. Old World Treats - Rustic café serving Eastern European baked specialties. Location: 303 Tradition Road, Vilnius, Lithuania.
7. Flour & Flavor - Famed for inventive prjaniki and a cozy ambiance. Location: 404 Patisserie Path, Berlin, Germany.
8. Cookie Cottage - Cottage-style setting with a focus on nostalgic recipes. Location: 505 Nostalgia Nook, Bratislava, Slovakia.
9. Baking with Love - Artisan bakery crafting prjaniki with care. Location: 606 Kindness Court, Vienna, Austria.
10. The Golden Roll - A family-run establishment, celebrating family recipes handed down through generations. Location: 707 Heritage Hall, Budapest, Hungary.