Cinnamon Star Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to fill your kitchen with the scent of holiday cheer, look no further than Cinnamon Star Cookies, or Zimtsterne as they’re called in Germany. These cookies are a cherished tradition in many households and are perfect for sharing with loved ones. Each bite is a little piece of joy, making them an ideal dessert for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

I love how these cookies are not just delicious but also simple to make. Whether you’re baking on a busy weeknight or preparing for the festive season, Cinnamon Star Cookies will bring warmth and sweetness to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids will love cutting out star shapes and decorating with icing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can be made in advance and chilled until you’re ready to bake.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and almonds creates a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holidays, parties, or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll love how straightforward this list is!

• 2 1/4 cups finely ground almonds
• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 large egg white (for icing)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (for icing)

Variations

The beauty of Cinnamon Star Cookies lies in their versatility! Here are some fun ideas to customize your cookies:

• Add a Twist of Flavor: Try adding some finely grated orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.
• Switch Up the Nuts: Substitute the ground almonds with finely ground walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Mix in other spices like ginger or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for added warmth.
• Decorative Toppings: Instead of icing, sprinkle some chopped nuts or edible glitter on top before baking for extra flair!

How to Make Cinnamon Star Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of finely ground almonds, 1 3/4 cups of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that every cookie will have the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the two large egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial because it adds airiness to the cookies. Gently fold in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice—this will enhance the flavor and provide a lovely aroma.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Carefully fold the whipped egg white mixture into the dry ingredients. It’s important to be gentle here so you don’t lose all that wonderful air you’ve created. This folding technique creates light and fluffy cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 5: Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using parchment keeps things tidy and ensures even rolling.

Step 7: Cut Out Stars

Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, press down into the rolled-out dough and transfer those star shapes onto your prepared baking sheets. These adorable shapes are what make these cookies so festive!

Step 8: Make the Icing

For the icing, whisk one egg white in a bowl until it becomes frothy. Gradually add in one cup of powdered sugar and half a teaspoon of lemon juice while whisking until thick and smooth. This glossy icing adds both decoration and sweetness.

Step 9: Decorate Each Cookie

Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of icing onto each cookie. This step not only makes them look beautiful but also adds an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake between 10 to 12 minutes. Keeping an eye on them ensures they don’t overbake; they should be slightly firm but still soft inside.

Step 11: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, transfer your cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. They will smell heavenly while cooling—try not to sneak too many bites!

Enjoy sharing these delightful Cinnamon Star Cookies with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Star Cookies

Making Cinnamon Star Cookies is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and other spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. The aroma will be more pronounced, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
• Chill the dough: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without becoming too sticky.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should have a light golden color when done. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies that lose their delightful chewiness.
• Experiment with icing thickness: If you prefer a thicker icing, feel free to add more powdered sugar. A thicker layer can create a beautiful contrast against the soft cookie beneath.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Adding a slice of bread can help maintain moisture, keeping them chewy!

How to Serve Cinnamon Star Cookies

These charming star-shaped cookies are perfect for sharing during the holidays or any festive occasion! Here are some ideas to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon stick accents: Pair each cookie with a small cinnamon stick for a rustic touch that complements their flavor.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A rich mug of hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cookies, providing warmth and comfort during chilly days.
• Spiced chai tea: The spiced notes in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors of cinnamon in your cookies, making for a cozy pairing.
• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like oranges or apples offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies while adding vibrant color to your dessert spread.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness of your Cinnamon Star Cookies, creating an interesting combination that guests will love.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving tips and tricks, it’s time to spread some holiday cheer with your delicious Cinnamon Star Cookies! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cinnamon Star Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the holiday season.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can last up to one week, maintaining their chewy texture.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes.
• Serve immediately for that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Star Cookies that might help you out.

Can I use another type of nut instead of almonds for Cinnamon Star Cookies?

Absolutely! You can substitute finely ground hazelnuts or walnuts if you prefer. Just make sure they are finely ground for the best texture.

How do I ensure my Cinnamon Star Cookies have the right texture?

To achieve that perfect chewy texture, avoid over-mixing the dough after folding in the egg whites. Also, let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing!

Are there any alternatives to using egg whites in Cinnamon Star Cookies?

Yes, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white.

How should I decorate my Cinnamon Star Cookies?

Feel free to get creative! You can sprinkle chopped nuts or nonpareils on top of the icing before it sets, or even drizzle with melted dairy-free chocolate.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cinnamon Star Cookies! They’re not just delicious; they evoke warmth and happiness during special moments with loved ones. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share these treats with family and friends. Happy holiday baking!