Baking during the holiday season is always a delightful way to bring warmth and cheer to the home. One traditional German Christmas treat that’s sure to spread joy is the Kirsch Marzipan Sterne, or Cherry Marzipan Stars. These delightful cookies are rich in flavor and perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends. With a combination of cherries, marzipan, and a hint of almond, these festive cookies are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your household.
Kirsch Marzipan Sterne (Cherry Marzipan Stars)
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup marzipan, grated
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup Kirsch (cherry brandy)
– 1 egg white
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds and powdered sugar. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Add the grated marzipan and mix it into the almond-sugar mixture until it forms a crumbly dough-like texture.
3. Stir in the chopped dried cherries, Kirsch, egg white, almond extract, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough comes together.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
8. Serve these delightful Kirsch Marzipan Sterne to family and friends, or pack them into lovely boxes for gift-giving during the holiday season.
These Cherry Marzipan Stars will fill your home with the delicious scents of almond and cherry, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for celebrating the magic of Christmas. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or share them at a holiday gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and warm hearts all around. Get ready to make memories and spread joy with every bite of these delightful German treats.
