The traditional Jewish dessert — anglicized to “Mandel bread” — literally means “almond bread.” Like Italian biscotti, it’s twice-baked, made into a loaf and sliced.
“It’s more robust than the biscotti, and not as hard even when dipped into coffee or hot chocolate,” says Michelle Pinsky about the family treat she’s now sharing with the world as Mamma’s Mandel.
Pinsky, who grew up in Michigan, is the wife of native Daytonian, Howard Pinsky. The couple now live in Cincinnati.
“As a child and young adult, I have very fond memories of my mother making mandel bread,” says Michelle. Her mom created her own version of the traditional recipe by adding other ingredients such as chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, walnuts and raisins.
When Michelle went off to graduate school, she decided to make the special dessert for herself and her roommate. It was an immediate hit, and Michelle soon became the “mandel bread lady,” baking the delicacy for special occasions.
In 2008, with encouragement from her family, she decided to expand and Mamma’s Mandel was created.
“Our traditional recipe for mandel bread has evolved to include contemporary ingredients, flavors and coatings,” explains Michelle.
“We still make the traditional mandel bread flavors such as almond and walnut raisin. But we are proud of our other fun flavors such as cranberry almond with white chocolate drizzle, chocolate chip, butterscotch, coconut chocolate chip, cherry chocolate chip and apricot white chocolate chip.”
The product is now sold in cafes throughout Cincinnati and shipped across the country. Gift baskets for Hanukkah, Christmas and other occasions are available.
Prices for the bread range from $10-$25. Gift baskets, $30 and up, include Mamma’s Blend coffee, and other sweet treats.
For more information, visit www.mammasmandel. com.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 or mmoss@DaytonDaily News.com.
About the Author
