Mandelsterne Almond Stars

For centuries, Christmas baking has been a cherished tradition in Austria, with families coming together to create delightful treats that brighten up the holiday season. One such beloved recipe is the Mandelsterne, or Almond Stars. These lovely almond cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds, with their aromatic almond flavor and delicate texture. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these Almond Stars are sure to bring joy to your home this holiday season.

Mandelsterne Almond Stars

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups ground almonds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 egg whites
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– Almond slivers for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.
4. Roll out the dough on a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Decorate each Almond Star with a few almond slivers on top, gently pressing them into the dough.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are just beginning to turn golden brown around the edges.
7. 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. Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

These Mandelsterne Almond Stars are a festive addition to any Christmas celebration, adding a touch of elegance and sweetness to your holiday table. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea in the cozy glow of the Christmas tree or gifted to loved ones, these delightful treats are sure to be a hit. So gather your loved ones, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the aroma of almonds and spices fill your home with warmth and joy this Christmas season. Happy baking!

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