Okay, maybe that’s a stretch. Without the magic of the Elves, this stuff won’t fill you up for a long day on your feet. But who cares? It’s super fun and a must-make for my fellow Middle-Earthers. Sweet, crisp, and long-lasting, Elven lembas bread is the kind of thing you should make for road trips and camping adventures. It won’t last for months, but it will last for a while and should fill you up when it’s time for elevenses.

Servings: 8

INGREDIENTS

2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg
1⁄2 cup butter, room temperature
1⁄3 cup brown sugar
2⁄3 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons honey
1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1⁄2 teaspoon almond extract

STEPS

1) Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

2) Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl.

3) Add the butter and sugar and carefully beat with an electric mixer at low-medium speed until crumbly.

4) Pour the cream, honey, vanilla, and almond extract into the bowl and mix with a fork until a thick dough is formed.

5) Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut it into 3-inch squares and place the portions on the cookie sheet.

6) Carve two shallow diagonal lines from one corner to another with a knife to form an “X”.

7) Bake for 12 minutes until the bread is set and golden. Let the bread cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

NOTES

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 5-7 days.

Feel free to adjust the amount of spices or add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.