Baking during the festive season adds a touch of warmth and comfort to the home. One traditional German Christmas recipe that brings both flavor and flair to your holiday table is Zimtkugeln, also known as Cinnamon Balls. These delightful treats are sweet, aromatic, and perfect for spreading holiday cheer. By combining spices and sweetness, these bite-sized delights are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
**Zimtkugeln Cinnamon Balls**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of ground almonds
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 3/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
2. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then add them to the flour mixture. Use your hands to knead the dough until smooth and uniform in texture. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and shape it into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.
6. Bake the Zimtkugeln in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Once the Cinnamon Balls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer the balls to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the Zimtkugeln are completely cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
9. Serve these delightful Cinnamon Balls on a platter or in decorative packaging to share with friends and family during the holiday season. They also make excellent gifts when presented in a festive tin or box.
**Enjoy the warm flavors of the season with these Zimtkugeln Cinnamon Balls, a delightful German Christmas baking tradition. Let the enticing aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg fill your home as you bake a batch of these sweet treats. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or as a sweet indulgence after dinner, these Cinnamon Balls are sure to be a hit during the holiday season. Share the joy of baking and savor the festive spirit with each bite of these aromatic delights. Wishing you a merry and delicious holiday season!**
