Authentic Zimtsterne Recipe Cinnamon Stars All Tastes German

If you’re looking to add a touch of warmth and tradition to your holiday baking this season, look no further than the delightful Zimtsterne, or Cinnamon Stars. These charming German cookies are a beloved staple during the festive time of year, and their delicate blend of almond and cinnamon flavors is sure to enchant your taste buds. Let’s dive into this recipe and embrace the cozy comfort of a homemade treat that will surely become a favorite among your family and friends.

Title: Authentic Zimtsterne Recipe – Cinnamon Stars All Taste German

Ingredients:
– 1 3/4 cups ground almonds
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Pinch of salt
– Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your Zimtsterne bake evenly without sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon. The aromatic blend of these ingredients forms the heart of the rich flavor that defines Zimtsterne.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. This step is crucial for creating the light and airy texture of the cookies. Add the almond extract and a pinch of salt to the whipped egg whites, gently folding them in to preserve the fluffiness.

4. Gradually add the whipped egg white mixture to the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until a smooth and cohesive dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but pliable enough to roll out.

5. Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Turn out the Zimtsterne dough onto the sugared surface and sprinkle a bit more powdered sugar on top to prevent sticking. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness, being careful not to make it too thin.

6. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out your Zimtsterne shapes from the rolled dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even baking.

7. Bake the Zimtsterne in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are just beginning to develop a golden hue around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfectly baked to overly browned.

8. Once baked, remove the Zimtsterne from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Their aroma is sure to fill your kitchen with the comforting scents of the season.

9. To enhance the presentation of your Zimtsterne, you can dust them with a bit more powdered sugar before serving. This final touch adds a magical snowy finish to these beautiful star-shaped treats.

10. Enjoy your Authentic Zimtsterne – Cinnamon Stars! These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holidays or indulging in a cozy moment with a cup of hot tea. Embrace the German traditions and savor the warmth of homemade goodness with every bite.