It’s that time of year again when the sweet scent of cinnamon fills the air, and the holiday spirit dances around like a sugarplum fairy. Zimtsterne: German Cinnamon Stars with Meringue Topping are not just cookies; they are little bites of joy that bring back warm memories of family gatherings and laughter over steaming cups of cocoa. Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Picture this: golden-brown star-shaped cookies, crisp on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside, topped with a glossy meringue that glistens like freshly fallen snow.
These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night at home. The combination of flavors and textures is so spectacular that one bite will have you dreaming of winter wonderlands and holiday cheer. Cinnamon Roll Butter Swim Biscuits So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create some cinnamon magic together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is simple enough to tackle on a busy day but impressive enough to wow your guests
- Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon flavor complemented by a light meringue topping
- These cookies look stunning on any holiday table, turning heads with their starry charm
- They’re versatile too; enjoy them as holiday treats or year-round delights!
I remember the first time I made these Zimtsterne for my family; their eyes lit up like Christmas lights when they took their first bite! Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cupcakes recipe.
-
Ground Almonds: Choose finely ground almonds for a smooth texture; they provide a lovely nutty flavor.
-
Cinnamon: Use high-quality ground cinnamon – it makes all the difference in flavor.
-
Powdered Sugar: This sweetener gives the meringue its signature silky texture.
-
Egg Whites: Fresh egg whites whip up beautifully for that perfect meringue topping.
-
Lemon Juice: A splash helps stabilize the meringue and adds a hint of brightness to the flavor.
-
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances sweetness and depth in the cookies. Gooey Nutella Cookies.
-
Salt: Just a pinch elevates all those wonderful flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Workspace: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Make sure your work area is clean to keep those cookies safe from pesky crumbs!
Create the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground almonds, powdered sugar, salt, and cinnamon until well blended. This aromatic mixture will have your taste buds tingling in anticipation!
Add Egg Whites and Vanilla: Gently fold in egg whites and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the dry ingredients. The dough should be thick but pliable, ready to shape into stars.
Roll Out Your Stars: Lightly dust your surface with powdered sugar. Roll out about half an inch thick and use a star-shaped cutter to stamp out cookies. Place them on prepared baking sheets.
Make the Meringue Topping: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with lemon juice until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This fluffy mixture should look as dreamy as it sounds!
Add Meringue to Cookies: Spoon or pipe generous amounts of meringue onto each star cookie. Don’t be shy; go for that cloud-like finish!
**Bake**: Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden while keeping that beautiful soft center intact.
Enjoy every moment of making these Zimtsterne: German Cinnamon Stars with Meringue Topping! They’re not just about taste; they’re about creating cherished memories in your kitchen, filled with laughter and love. So gather around with family or friends as you share these delightful treats!
You Must Know
- Zimtsterne are not just a festive treat; they combine the warmth of cinnamon with a delightful meringue topping
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- These cookies capture the essence of holiday cheer, making them perfect for sharing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your meringue to ensure it holds its shape. While it cools, mix your dough for efficiency and perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts instead of walnuts. A splash of vanilla can also enhance the flavor beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store Zimtsterne in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They don’t require reheating; enjoy them fresh as they are!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with room temperature egg whites for better meringue consistency
- Make sure to sift powdered sugar to avoid clumps in the dough
- Dust your work surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and easy handling
Baking Zimtsterne always takes me back to my childhood, where my grandmother and I would play around in the kitchen, making a mess but creating delicious memories together.
FAQ
What are Zimtsterne made of?
Zimtsterne consist of ground nuts, cinnamon, sugar, and egg whites with a fluffy meringue topping.
How long do Zimtsterne last?
These cookies can last up to two weeks when stored correctly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Zimtsterne?
Yes, you can freeze them; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Zimtsterne – German Cinnamon Stars
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with Zimtsterne, delightful German Cinnamon Stars topped with a glossy meringue. These star-shaped cookies bring warmth and nostalgia, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. With their crisp edges and chewy centers, each bite is a celebration of cinnamon goodness that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground almonds
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground almonds, powdered sugar, salt, and cinnamon until combined.
- Fold in egg whites and vanilla extract until the dough is thick yet pliable.
- Roll out dough to ½ inch thick on a powdered sugar-dusted surface; cut out star shapes and place them on baking sheets.
- For the meringue topping, beat egg whites with lemon juice until soft peaks form; gradually add powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spoon or pipe meringue onto cookies.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Leave a Comment