Zimtkringel Cinnamon Rings

Baking during the festive season is a wonderful way to add warmth and aroma to your home, filling it with the cozy scents of the holidays. This German Christmas baking recipe for Zimtkringel, or Cinnamon Rings, is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. These sweet and spiced pastries are not only delicious but also fun to make, making them a festive family activity as well.

Zimtkringel Cinnamon Rings

Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– ½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about ¼ inch.
7. Sprinkle the rolled-out dough evenly with the ground cinnamon and chopped nuts, gently pressing them into the dough.
8. Using a sharp knife or a cookie cutter, cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
9. Twist each strip into a ring shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake the Zimtkringel in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
11. Allow the Cinnamon Rings to cool on a wire rack before serving.

These Zimtkringel Cinnamon Rings are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or for giving as gifts to friends and family. The combination of warm cinnamon, buttery dough, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture and flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy these treats with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, and bask in the joy of the holiday season. Let the sweet aroma of freshly baked Zimtkringel fill your home with Christmas cheer. Happy baking!