Pretzel Cookies with Red Wine Glaze

Combine the flour, sugar, vanilla sugar, salt and orange zest in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the egg yolk and orange juice. Distribute the butter over the top and mix using a pastry cutter or two forks. Quickly knead with hands to form a smooth dough. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 

Preheat the oven to 180°C (approximately 350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll into a log about 3 cm (approximately 1 inch) in diameter. Cut the log into 2 cm thick slices, shape each slice into a roll and twist into a pretzel shape. Place the pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown. 

For the glaze: Heat the red wine and spices in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until reduced by half. Remove from heat and allow to cool. 

Whisk the powdered sugar and wine mixture together until smooth.