Zimtsterne: Traditional Cinnamon Star Cookies

Zimtsterne, or cinnamon star cookies, are a beloved German treat, especially around the holidays. These naturally gluten-free cookies are made with ground almonds and spiced with cinnamon, offering a delightful balance of nutty sweetness and warm spice. They might take a little patience, but the reward is a batch of festive, star-shaped delights that are perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 500g ground almonds (plus extra for dusting)

• 250g granulated sugar

• 100g egg whites (about 3 large eggs)

• 25g ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 75g egg whites (about 2 large eggs)

• 250g powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and egg whites. Use your hands to knead the mixture into a smooth dough that holds together without crumbling.
If the dough feels sticky, dust your work surface with additional ground almonds to make it easier to handle.

2. Roll Out and Cut the Cookies:
Roll out the dough on a surface lightly dusted with ground almonds to about 1cm (1/3 inch) thickness.
Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies. Re-roll scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.

3. Make the Glaze:
Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until smooth and glossy.

4. Glaze and Bake:
Spread a thin layer of the glaze on top of each cookie using a small spatula or the back of a spoon.
Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and bake the cookies for 15 minutes. They should remain light in color and slightly soft inside.

5. Cool and Enjoy:
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
These cookies keep well for up to two weeks, making them ideal for holiday gifting.

Notes:

• If the dough sticks too much during rolling, add extra ground almonds sparingly. Overworking the dough can make it dry.

• For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the glaze with edible glitter or a pinch of cinnamon before baking.

The Verdict:

While I’m personally not the biggest fan of Zimtsterne, my partner says they’re absolutely delicious. I’ll take their word for it! These cookies are a classic for a reason, and they’ll surely bring holiday cheer to your home. Give them a try and see if they’ll become a new favorite in your family!