Cinnamon Stars are delightful cookies that are particularly popular during the holiday season. These star-shaped treats offer a sweet and spicy flavor, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. Their unique shape and flavor make them a festive addition to any dessert table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cinnamon Stars at home is a wonderful way to fill your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they are also easy to make with simple ingredients. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as gifts, and the joy of baking them adds to the festive spirit.
How to Make Cinnamon Stars
Cinnamon Stars are simple to prepare. Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of these delightful cookies.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ground almonds
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (for icing)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground almonds and powdered sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture along with the cinnamon and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out star shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until slightly golden.
- For the icing, mix powdered sugar with water until smooth and spread it over cooled cookies. Let the icing set before serving.
How to Serve Cinnamon Stars
Cinnamon Stars are best served fresh and slightly warm. You can place them on a festive platter or in a decorative tin to share. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or hot chocolate, making for a cozy treat during the colder months.
How to Store Cinnamon Stars
To keep your Cinnamon Stars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Stars
- Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a lighter cookie.
- Roll the dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking, but don’t add too much extra flour to the dough.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste!
Variation
You can add a bit of vanilla extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, consider decorating with colorful sprinkles on the icing for a festive touch!
FAQs
1. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, you can use ground hazelnuts or walnuts if you prefer.
2. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, you can add a bit more ground almonds or powdered sugar until it reaches a workable consistency.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Cinnamon Stars with your loved ones!
