Hello, friends! Clara here, and nothing makes my kitchen feel cozier than the scent of cinnamon and sugar during the holidays. There’s just something magical about transforming simple ingredients into edible treasures, ready to be shared with loved ones. Today, I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite festive treats: Cinnamon Star Cookies! These delicate cookies, also known as Zimtsterne, are a traditional German delight that will bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. And the best part? From start to finish, you’ll need just about an hour and a half to complete them.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Recipe
Why is this festive cinnamon star cookies recipe going to become your new go-to? Let me tell you!
- Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these in your pantry already.
- Perfectly chewy: These aren’t your typical crumbly cookies; they’re wonderfully soft and chewy.
- Easy to decorate: The simple meringue topping makes them elegant and festive without any fuss.
- Make ahead: You can make the dough in advance, so you’re always ready for a baking session.
What are Zimtsterne? (The Story Behind Cinnamon Star Cookies)
Zimtsterne, meaning “cinnamon stars” in German, are a beloved Christmas cookie gracing tables and tempting taste buds across Germany during the Advent season. You’ll find them twinkling at Christmas markets, filling the air with their irresistible aroma. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a symbol of holiday traditions and cozy gatherings, often described as soft, chewy German-Austrian Christmas cookies made with almonds, egg whites, powdered sugar, and cinnamon.
The Key Ingredients for Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
The success of these festive cinnamon star cookies lies in the quality of the ingredients. High-quality almond meal gives the cookies their signature chewy texture and nutty flavor. Freshly ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice that perfectly complements the sweetness of the meringue. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Recipe: The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies.
- 3 large egg whites
- 2 cups (240g) powdered/confectioner sugar
- 3 1/4 cup (325g) non-blanched almond meal or hazelnut meal
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
How to Make Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies: Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of beautiful Zimtsterne in no time.
- Preheat the oven to 250º F (120º C). Don’t turn on the fan, because it can cause the egg white topping to brown before the cookies are done. Place the rack on the bottom rung of the oven.
- Beat the egg whites in a medium-sized bowl until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-beat the egg whites or the frosting/glaze won’t turn out correctly.
- Sift the powdered sugar and stir it into the egg whites until combined. Reserve 2/3 cup of the egg white mixture to glaze the cookies.
- Add the almond meal, cinnamon, and salt and mix until the dough comes together in a fairly stiff but pliable mass. If it’s too soft or sticky to work with add a little more nut meal and powdered sugar.
- Press/roll the dough onto a non-stick surface sprinkled with powdered sugar to a thickness of about 1/3 inch.
- Use a 3-inch star cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and transfer them to a lined or non-stick cookie sheet. Form the scraps of dough into a ball, roll it out again and cut cookies out of the remaining dough.
- Place a little of the egg white mixture on each cookie and use a toothpick or a pastry brush to smooth all the way to the edges. Alternatively you can use a pastry bag or condiment bottle to apply the egg white mixture.
- Place the sheet on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake the Zimtsterne for 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and open the oven door just a crack and let the cookies sit for another 10-15 minutes to further dry out. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies can be stored in a dry, airtight container in a cool place for up to 2 weeks.
Clara’s Top Tips for Perfect Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
Here are a few of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your Zimtsterne are a success:
- Don’t over-bake: Over-baking can lead to dry, cracked cookies. Keep a close eye on them!
- Prevent cracking: The key is low and slow baking. This ensures the meringue sets properly without cracking.
- Meringue magic: Using the same meringue for both the cookie dough and the topping creates a cohesive flavor and texture. This avoids any wasted ingredients!
Ingredient Substitutions for Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
Sometimes, you might need to make a few swaps based on what you have on hand. Here’s a handy guide:
| Ingredient | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Almond Meal | Hazelnut, Walnut, or Gluten-Free Blend | May slightly alter the flavor and texture but still delicious. |
| Vanillezucker (Vanilla Sugar) | Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Powder | Use sparingly, start with 1/2 teaspoon of extract or a pinch of powder. |
How to Make These Cinnamon Star Cookies Extra Festive
Want to jazz up your Zimtsterne? Get creative with your decorations!
- Edible glitter: A sprinkle of edible glitter adds a touch of sparkle.
- Colored sugars: Use colored sugars for a vibrant, festive look.
- Melted chocolate drizzles: Drizzle melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Chopped nuts: Add chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies: Variations to Try
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes beyond stars. Try using heart-shaped or round cookie cutters. For flavor variations, add a zest of orange, lemon, cardamom, or other warm spices to the dough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cinnamon Star Cookies
Let’s troubleshoot before you even begin!
- Over-baking: Keep a close eye on the cookies to prevent them from becoming too dry.
- Meringue cracking: Bake at a low temperature to ensure the meringue sets properly.
- Dough sticking: Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cookies spreading: Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature and that your baking sheets are cool.
Can I Make the Dough for These Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes, absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before rolling.
Serving and Gifting Ideas for Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
These cookies make wonderful gifts! Package them in decorative tins, boxes, or cellophane bags tied with ribbons. They’re also a perfect addition to holiday dessert platters. Serve them with tea, coffee or Glühwein for a cozy treat.
How to Store Your Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
To maintain their freshness and flavor, store your Zimtsterne in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage; they’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Troubleshooting: Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Edition
- Dough too sticky: Add a little more almond meal and powdered sugar until it reaches a workable consistency.
- Meringue topping too thin: Beat the reserved egg white mixture for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Meringue topping too thick: Add a few drops of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Rating: 5 stars
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Nutrition Information for Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies
Per cookie (approximate):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
Amazing Festive Cinnamon Star Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 250º F (120º C). Don’t turn on the fan, because it can cause the egg white topping to brown before the cookies are done. Place the rack on the bottom rung of the oven.
- Beat the egg whites in a medium-sized bowl until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-beat the egg whites or the frosting/glaze won’t turn out correctly.
- Sift the powdered sugar and stir it into the egg whites until combined. Reserve 2/3 cup of the egg white mixture to glaze the cookies.
- Add the almond meal, cinnamon, and salt and mix until the dough comes together in a fairly stiff but pliable mass. If it’s too soft or sticky to work with add a little more nut meal and powdered sugar.
- Press/roll the dough onto a non-stick surface sprinkled with powdered sugar to a thickness of about 1/3 inch.
- Use a 3-inch star cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and transfer them to a lined or non-stick cookie sheet. Form the scraps of dough into a ball, roll it out again and cut cookies out of the remaining dough.
- Place a little of the egg white mixture on each cookie and use a toothpick or a pastry brush to smooth all the way to the edges. Alternatively you can use a pastry bag or condiment bottle to apply the egg white mixture.
- Place the sheet on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake the Zimtsterne for 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and open the oven door just a crack and let the cookies sit for another 10-15 minutes to further dry out. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies can be stored in a dry, airtight container in a cool place for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Don’t over-bake: Over-baking can lead to dry, cracked cookies. Keep a close eye on them!
- Prevent cracking: The key is low and slow baking. This ensures the meringue sets properly without cracking.
- Meringue magic: Using the same meringue for both the cookie dough and the topping creates a cohesive flavor and texture. This avoids any wasted ingredients!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cinnamon stars gluten-free?
Yes, if made with almond meal, they are naturally gluten-free.
What do cinnamon stars taste like?
They have a delightful combination of cinnamon spice, nutty almond flavor, and sweet meringue.
How long do cinnamon stars last?
They last up to 2 weeks at room temperature in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Zimtsterne cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Should you use almond flour or almond meal?
Almond meal is preferred for its slightly coarser texture, which gives the cookies a chewier bite.
Conclusion
Baking these festive cinnamon star cookies is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. I hope this recipe brings a little bit of holiday magic to your kitchen. Now, I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite holiday cookie? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Happy baking!
