Are you in the mood for a delightful German Christmas treat that will fill your home with the warm, cozy scents of the holiday season? Look no further than the classic recipe for Haselnusssterne, also known as Hazelnut Stars. These delectable cookies are a festive favorite, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa by the fireplace. Let’s dive into the simple yet scrumptious world of Haselnusssterne and bring a touch of German tradition to your holiday baking!
Title: Haselnusssterne Hazelnut Stars
Ingredients:
– 1 cup finely ground hazelnuts
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The key to successful Hazelnut Stars is a low oven temperature that allows these delicate cookies to bake slowly and evenly.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely ground hazelnuts and powdered sugar. The rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts is a staple in traditional German baking, adding a wonderful depth to these holiday treats.
3. Separately, in a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy texture in the cookies. The egg whites act as a binding agent, holding the ingredients together while adding a fluffy consistency.
4. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the hazelnut mixture, along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The vanilla extract enhances the aromatic profile of the cookies, while a touch of salt balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the Hazelnut Stars and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.
6. Bake the Hazelnut Stars in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are just beginning to turn golden around the edges. Be mindful not to overbake, as these cookies are best when they remain tender and slightly chewy in the center.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the Hazelnut Stars generously with powdered sugar for a festive finishing touch.
8. Serve these delightful Hazelnut Stars as a charming addition to your holiday cookie platter or package them in a decorative tin to give as a heartfelt homemade gift. These cookies also pair wonderfully with a cup of spiced tea or mulled wine, making them the perfect indulgence for a cozy evening in.
Enjoy the magic of the holiday season with a batch of homemade Haselnusssterne Hazelnut Stars. Embrace the tradition of German Christmas baking and savor the sweet, nutty flavors of these festive cookies that are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Happy baking!
