For centuries, Christmas in the Czech Republic has been a time for cherished traditions and delicious baked goods that bring warmth and joy to homes. Among these festive treats are the Skořicové Hvězdičky, or Cinnamon Stars. These delightful cookies are not only delicious but also beautifully decorative, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
**Skořicové Hvězdičky Cinnamon Stars**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Add the vanilla extract to the egg whites and continue whisking until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookie shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the Cinnamon Stars for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the cookies have cooled, sift powdered sugar over the top of each one to create a snowy finish.
9. Store the Skořicové Hvězdičky Cinnamon Stars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a cozy baking session at home, these Cinnamon Stars are sure to bring a touch of Czech Christmas magic to your festivities. The warm aroma of cinnamon, the delicate almond flavor, and the festive star shapes all come together to create a treat that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the spirit of Christmas inspire you to bake up a batch of these sweet and spiced cookies. May your home be filled with joy, love, and the delicious scent of Skořicové Hvězdičky Cinnamon Stars this holiday season. Happy baking!
