Lithuanian Honey and Rye Bread Crumble (Medaus ir ruginių duonos trupiniai)
A rustic and flavorful dessert that transforms humble rye bread into a delightful treat. Toasted rye breadcrumbs are mixed with honey, spices, and often fruits or nuts, then baked until golden and fragrant.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Dark rye bread(stale or lightly toasted)
- 50 g Butter(melted)
- 100 g Honey
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Ground cloves
- 50 g Chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
- 50 g Dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- Fresh berries (for serving)(optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish.
💡 Tip: A small baking dish, about 8x8 inches, works well. - 2
Cut the rye bread into cubes or tear into small pieces. If the bread is not stale, lightly toast it in the oven or a dry pan until slightly crisp.
💡 Tip: Stale bread is ideal as it will absorb the honey mixture better. - 3
In a bowl, combine the rye bread pieces with the melted butter and toss to coat evenly.
- 4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, cinnamon, and cloves. If using, stir in the chopped nuts and dried fruit.
💡 Tip: Warm the honey slightly if it's very thick, to make it easier to mix. - 5
Pour the honey mixture over the rye bread pieces and toss gently until everything is well combined.
- 6
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the bread pieces are in a single layer for even baking. - 7
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the honey mixture is bubbling.
💡 Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. - 8
Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm on its own, or with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
💡 Tip: This dessert is best served warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a good quality, dark rye bread for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the spices according to your preference.
- ✓For a sweeter dessert, you can add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the honey mixture.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of apple slices or pear slices at the bottom of the baking dish before adding the rye bread mixture.
- A drizzle of sour cream or thick yogurt can be added before serving.
- Experiment with different types of nuts and dried fruits.