Name: Deliciously Simple Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) for Any Occasion
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar (Sift to prevent clumping.); 10 ounces Sliced Almonds (May substitute with almond flour.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to personal taste.); 3 large Egg Whites (Ensure at room temperature.); 1 tablespoon Finely Grated Lemon Zest (Use fresh lemon for best flavor.); ⅔ cup Reserved Egg White Mixture (Used for meringue finish.); ½ cup Remaining Sliced Almonds (For decoration.)

As I pulled the golden stars from the oven, the cozy aroma of cinnamon and almonds instantly transformed my kitchen into a festive wonderland. These Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) are not your average holiday cookies; they encapsulate the warmth of a German Christmas, reminding us of cherished gatherings and sweet traditions. With five simple ingredients, these gluten-free gems boast a delightful texture that contrasts crunchy edges with a chewy center, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting treat, these cookies offer a quick and delightful solution for any holiday gathering. Curious how to create these adorable delights? Let’s dive into the magic of Zimtsterne!

Why Are Zimtsterne a Must-Bake?

Simplicity, with just five ingredients needed, these Zimtsterne cookies make holiday baking accessible even for beginners. Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for gluten-sensitive friends and family, everyone can indulge! Festive Aroma fills your home with nostalgic scents of cinnamon and almonds, setting the stage for joyful gatherings. Versatility: Adapt these cookies for various occasions by swapping almonds for different nuts or adding a splash of citrus zest. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The chewy center and crunchy edges ensure these cookies are adored by all, making them an excellent addition to any cookie platter this season.

Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and provides structure; sift to prevent clumping.
Sliced Almonds – Gives a lovely nutty flavor and texture; can substitute with almond flour, maintaining the same weight.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances warmth and flavor depth; adjust quantity based on your personal spice preference.
Egg Whites – Key for structure and stability; ensure they are at room temperature for optimal whipping.
Finely Grated Lemon Zest – Brightens the overall flavor profile; use fresh lemon for the best aroma and taste.

For the Topping

Reserved Egg White Mixture – Used to create a glossy meringue finish on the cookies; saves time by being a simple use of leftover ingredients.
Remaining Sliced Almonds – Added on top for a festive touch; use extra for a more decorative appeal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure your Zimtsterne cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond Mixture
In a food processor, blend together ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar, 10 ounces of sliced almonds, and ground cinnamon until finely ground. The mixture should become a fine flour-like texture. This aromatic blend is crucial for the nutty, sweet flavor of your Zimtsterne, so take your time to ensure it’s well combined.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
Using an electric mixer, whip the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until they reach soft peaks. Gradually add in the remaining confectioners’ sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture becomes thick and glossy. This process typically takes about 4-6 minutes. Reserve ⅔ cup of this meringue for later, as it will be used for topping.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the almond mixture and the finely grated lemon zest into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the mixture as you incorporate them until you achieve a stiff dough. This step is essential for creating the right texture in your Zimtsterne cookies, so ensure everything is well combined but still airy.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to a thickness of ¼ inch. To prevent sticking, you can flip the dough periodically, ensuring it remains mobile. This rolling process helps shape your cookies, and a consistent thickness is key to even baking.

Step 6: Cut Cookies
Using a 3-inch star cutter, carefully cut out cookie shapes from the rolled dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each star. This part not only adds to the festive appearance of the Zimtsterne but also ensures they bake evenly.

Step 7: Top and Bake
Spread the reserved meringue mixture on top of each star cookie, then sprinkle with additional sliced almonds for decoration. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on the oven to avoid over-baking them!

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside for an additional 10 minutes. This helps them dry out and become perfectly chewy in the center while maintaining a slight crunch on the outside. Afterward, cool them completely on a wire rack before enjoying your delightful Zimtsterne.

How to Store and Freeze Zimtsterne

Room Temperature: Store your Zimtsterne cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If baked cookies become a bit soft after freezing, lightly toast them in a preheated 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore their original texture.

Dough Storage: The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking easier on busier days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you’re looking to save even more time, the shaped cookies can be frozen for up to 3 weeks before baking—just ensure they are placed in a single layer on a baking sheet first until frozen solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; simply pop them in the oven straight from the freezer! This ensures that your Zimtsterne turn out just as delicious and festive as if they were made fresh.

Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Zimtsterne with these fun twists and substitutions that will surely elevate your baking experience!

Nut-Free: Swap sliced almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to make a delicious, allergy-friendly version.
Citrus Burst: Replace lemon zest with a tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest for a bright, zesty twist that adds a lovely fragrant note.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an indulgent touch that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the almond mixture for a warm, spiced flavor that will envelop your kitchen in a cozy aroma.
Food Coloring Fun: Incorporate a few drops of food coloring into the meringue to create vibrant, festive cookies sure to impress during the holiday season.
Herbal Infusion: Try adding a teaspoon of ground cardamom to the dough. This aromatic spice adds an exotic twist you’ll love.
Reduced Sugar: Substitute part of the confectioners’ sugar with a sugar alternative like Swerve or erythritol for a lower-sugar cookie option.
Chocolate Almond Lovers: Use cocoa powder in lieu of a bit of confectioners’ sugar for cookies wreathed in rich chocolate flavor while still keeping that glorious cinnamon essence.

With these options, you can tailor your Zimtsterne to match your taste preferences or dietary needs, making them uniquely yours! And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not pair these cookies with a cozy cup of homemade hot chocolate? A match made in culinary heaven!

Expert Tips for Zimtsterne

Egg White Magic: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature; this aids in achieving the perfect volume and texture for your meringue.
Sifting Sugar: Always sift confectioners’ sugar before use to prevent clumping, ensuring a smooth and even mixture in your Zimtsterne dough.
Rolling Precision: When rolling out the dough, keep it between parchment sheets to prevent sticking and maintain an even thickness for uniform baking.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow cookies to cool in the oven for 10 minutes post-baking; this helps enhance the chewy texture and prevents them from becoming too soft.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to replace sliced almonds with other nuts or add a hint of orange zest for a delightful twist to your Zimtsterne.

What to Serve with Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)

As you prepare your batch of Zimtsterne, consider delightful pairings that elevate this festive treat into a memorable meal.

Hot Cocoa: A warm, velvety cup of hot cocoa complements the sweet almond flavor of the cookies perfectly, creating a comforting holiday moment.
Spiced Tea: A fragrant spiced tea adds warmth, enhancing the cinnamon notes in the cookies, making each bite even more delicious.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie or aged gouda introduces a contrasting savory element, bringing balance to the sweetness of the Zimtsterne.

These cookies shine on their own, but paired with drinks and savory treats, they create an unforgettable holiday vibe.

Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brightens the palate and adds a refreshing counterpoint to the cookies’ richness. Seasonal citrus works beautifully!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream creates a lovely contrast, allowing the cookies’ unique texture to pop.
Mulled Wine: A glass of warm mulled wine, with its spices echoing the cookies, makes for an enticing holiday pairing.
Shortbread Cookies: For a delightful dessert table, pair these with buttery shortbread cookies, adding variety without overpowering.
Pecans or Walnuts: Lightly candied nuts offer a crunchy snack that complements the Zimtsterne, enhancing the nutty flavors in both treats.
Gingerbread Cookies: Serve alongside gingerbread cookies for a festive theme, showcasing classic holiday flavors that mingle beautifully.

Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right almonds for my Zimtsterne?
When selecting almonds for Zimtsterne, look for fresh, whole, and unblemished sliced almonds. If you notice any dark spots or the almonds smell rancid, it’s best to avoid them. You can also use almond flour as a substitute—just ensure it is also fresh for the best flavor.

How should I store my Zimtsterne after baking?
To keep your cookies fresh, store Zimtsterne in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days. If you’d like them to last longer, consider freezing them before baking. This method ensures they maintain their delightful flavor and texture for future enjoyment.

Can I freeze Zimtsterne dough? How do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Zimtsterne dough for up to 2 weeks. First, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling it out and cutting your star shapes.

What should I do if my egg whites won’t whip up properly?
If your egg whites don’t reach the soft peak stage, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease. Egg whites should be at room temperature, as they whip better when warm. If they still don’t whip, try adding a small pinch of cream of tartar to stabilize them as you whip.

Are Zimtsterne gluten-free? Can I make them vegan?
Yes, Zimtsterne are gluten-free as they primarily use almonds and egg whites! For a vegan option, you can replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Whip the aquafaba until it reaches stiff peaks, just like egg whites, and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Zimtsterne?
For an exciting twist, experiment by swapping sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans, which lend a different flavor profile. You can also add a tablespoon of orange zest instead of lemon for a citrusy kick that brightens the cookies even further!