It's the most wonderful time of the year... to bake cookies! We don't know about you, but we can't imagine Christmas without these delicious treats. If you wonder what cookies Croatians bake during winter holidays, the answer is simple – Medenjaci. But, more than just a cookie, Medenjak is a symbol of a long tradition and heritage. The recipe is usually passed down from generation to generation while retaining that wonderful aroma and taste that evokes memories. Every region in Croatia has its version of Medenjaci, but in every single one, the main ingredient… is the star- honey.

Traditional Croatian Cookies That Evoke Memories

If you ask any Croat, "what is Christmas without Medenjaci?"; you'll get a one-word answer – unimaginable! Medenjaci are one of the oldest Croatian autochthonous recipes. Considering that at that time, honey was expensive, we could say even exclusive; Medenjaci were prepared only for special occasions - such as Christmas and Easter. The flavors of cookies differed from region to region, both due to the availability of ingredients and the household's wishes. But they all had three things in common; exquisite taste, the richness of spices, and of course, delicious honey. Today, their taste and quality stayed the same. And the tradition of baking them at Christmas time has remained vital to this day. Every Croat has a beautiful memory involving these delicious cookies, most of which happened at the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! So we could say Medenjaci are Christmas. 

When we talk about spices, these delicious cookies are royal. From nutmeg, saffron, cinnamon, and ginger, to alcoholic drinks, such as famous rakija, rum, and prosecco. All these make the perfect mixture that fills the air with the most beautiful aroma and scent. And the texture, oh my… so soft, so chewy, and yet a bit crunchy on the outside. 

Medenjaci are often compared to American gingerbread cookies, but there are certain differences. For example, Gingerbread cookies are usually sweetened with molasses and brown sugar, and Medenjaci with rich honey, making them slightly lighter in color and flavor than American ones. 

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Make Traditional Croatian Medenjaci at Home

Now is the perfect opportunity to make Medenjaci by yourself and feel a bit of Croatia in your home. They are really easy to make, and your little ones can also help you prepare. They will love it! Medenjaci are traditionally small dough rounds, but they can also be heart-shaped or star-shaped. They are decorated simply with a sweet white icing glaze made of egg white and sugar. But you can still have a little fun and put your stamp on them while decorating. The cookies are also perfect for edible presents for your family or friends during the holidays since they can be stored for at least a couple of weeks. You can check out the recipe for the traditional Medenjaci here. 

Once you try these delicious Croatian cookies, you will make them again. Their irresistible aroma and taste will deliver pure Christmas joy into any home. So what are you waiting for? Head over to a store for ingredients and start making them.

Medenjak As A Souvenir

Medenjaci are also a perfect souvenir from Croatia. So if you find yourself at any Christmas Market in any Croatian city, make sure you shop them and take a bit of autochthonous Croatia to your home. Or you can find them at the online shop Deliiicije.hr. 

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