During the festive season in Germany, nothing quite captures the spirit of Christmas like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked Zimtsterne Mit Schokoladenglasur, or Cinnamon Stars With Chocolate Icing. These delicate cookies are a traditional favorite, loved for their combination of spicy cinnamon and sweet chocolate. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these Zimtsterne are sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Zimtsterne Mit Schokoladenglasur (Cinnamon Stars With Chocolate Icing)
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ground almonds
– 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 2 egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy. Add the vanilla extract to the egg whites and continue whisking until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Combine until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
4. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. On a clean surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the Zimtsterne in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once the Zimtsterne have cooled, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
8. Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, then place them back on the wire rack to set. You can also drizzle the chocolate over the cookies for a more decorative finish.
9. Allow the chocolate icing to cool and harden before serving the Zimtsterne Mit Schokoladenglasur. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
These Cinnamon Stars With Chocolate Icing are not only a delight to the senses but also a wonderful treat to enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season. Whether you choose to make them for a festive gathering or simply to enjoy at home, these Zimtsterne are guaranteed to bring joy and warmth to your heart and home. Happy baking and happy holidays!
