Are you ready to infuse your home with the sweet scents of Christmas this year? Look no further than these delightful Austrian Christmas baking treats known as Kokossterne, or Coconut Stars. These charming cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful surprise for your taste buds. With a perfect balance of coconut and sweetness, they make for a delicious addition to any holiday gathering or simply enjoy them curled up with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace.
Kokossterne – Coconut Stars
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut and granulated sugar. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture using a spatula. Add the almond extract and continue to fold until well combined.
5. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and shape them into small star-shaped cookies using your hands. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.
6. Bake the Coconut Stars in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust the cooled Coconut Stars with powdered sugar for a festive finish. You can also drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness if desired.
9. Serve these delightful Kokossterne to your loved ones or package them up in decorative bags as thoughtful homemade gifts for the holiday season.
Enjoy the delightful aroma of coconut and sweetness that fills your home as you bake these charming Coconut Stars. They make for a wonderful addition to your Christmas cookie platter or a thoughtful present for friends and neighbors. Get creative with different shapes and decorations to make them truly your own. Have fun baking, and merry Christmas!
