Vanillesterne Vanilla Stars

Get ready to fill your home with the warm, sweet aroma of the holiday season with this delightful German Christmas baking recipe – Vanillesterne Vanilla Stars. These delicate and fragrant cookies not only look stunning but also taste heavenly, making them a perfect treat for your festive gatherings or as thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

2. In a separate larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.

4. Gradually stir in the flour mixture until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. Mix in the ground almonds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the dough.

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookie shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.

8. Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

10. Once the cookies have completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

Enjoy these Vanillesterne Vanilla Stars with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine for the perfect holiday treat. Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and enjoy them with your loved ones throughout the festive season.

Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or looking for a delightful baking project to enjoy with your family, these Vanillesterne Vanilla Stars are sure to bring joy and smiles to all who taste them. Embrace the holiday spirit and get baking today!