Julstjärnor Christmas Star Pastries

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by baking delightful treats that fill your home with the warm, cozy scent of the holidays? Today, we bring you a classic Swedish Christmas baking recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your festive repertoire – Julstjärnor, also known as Christmas Star pastries. These beautiful pastries are not only delicious but also make stunning additions to any holiday dessert table. Let’s dive into creating these heavenly treats together!

**Julstjärnor Christmas Star Pastries**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup raspberry jam
– ½ cup chopped almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out star shapes from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam onto the center of each star and sprinkle with chopped almonds.
9. Roll out the second portion of dough and cut out an equal number of star shapes.
10. Using a smaller star-shaped cutter, gently cut out the center of each star to create a window.
11. Carefully place the cut-out stars over the jam and almond-topped stars on the baking sheet, creating a sandwich effect.
12. Press the edges of the stars together gently to seal the pastries.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the pastries are lightly golden.
14. Remove from the oven and allow the pastries to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
15. Once cooled, dust the Julstjärnor Christmas Star Pastries with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.

These delightful Christmas Star Pastries are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for the ultimate holiday indulgence. Share these beautiful pastries with your loved ones or package them up in a pretty box to give as edible gifts – they are sure to spread joy and cheer wherever they go. This holiday season, let the tradition of baking bring warmth and happiness to your home with these Julstjärnor Christmas Star Pastries. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!