Name: Delightful Zimtsterne: Easy 5-Ingredient Christmas Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Confectioners' Sugar (Use powdered sugar for best results.); 10 ounces Sliced Almonds (Can substitute with ground almonds.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Use fresh for optimal taste.); 2 large Egg Whites (Use room temperature for better whipping.); 1 teaspoon Finely Grated Lemon Zest (Optional but recommended for extra flavor.)

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As the aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air, a lovely sense of nostalgia washes over me. While many holiday treats are intricate and time-consuming, this is where Zimtsterne—those delightful German Cinnamon Stars—shine. With just five simple ingredients, these gluten-free Christmas cookies blend a crunchy exterior with a chewy heart, creating an irresistible texture that keeps you coming back for more. Not only are they a fun and easy project to tackle during the festive season, but they also make for a stunning centerpiece on any cookie tray. The heartwarming story of these treats celebrates togetherness, making them a true holiday staple. Are you ready to bring some joy into your kitchen and share these charming cookies with loved ones?

Why Are Zimtsterne a Must-Bake?

Simplicity and Flavor: With only five ingredients, these cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Decadent Texture: The combination of a crispy exterior and a chewy center ensures a delightful bite that you’ll cherish with every nibble.

Gluten-Free Goodness: These charming cookies cater to gluten-free diets without compromising on taste.

Festive Appeal: Zimtsterne not only taste amazing but also bring a holiday cheer to your table, making them a showstopper on any festive cookie platter.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to get creative! Consider substituting almond slices with hazelnuts or pistachios for a different twist. If you’re looking for more cookie ideas, check out our collection of Christmas cookie recipes.

Zimtsterne Ingredients

• For the Dough

Confectioners’ Sugar – Provides sweetness and creates a smooth texture; use powdered sugar for the best results.
Sliced Almonds – Adds nuttiness and a crunchy texture; you can use ground almonds for easier preparation.
Ground Cinnamon – Essential for flavoring; make sure it’s fresh for optimal taste.
Egg Whites – Binds ingredients and creates a lovely meringue-like consistency; room temperature whites whip better.
Finely Grated Lemon Zest – Enhances flavor with a fresh, citrus note; totally optional, but highly recommended for a delightful twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Zimtsterne

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners to ensure the cookies don’t stick. This simple prep step is essential, as it prepares the environment for baking your delicious Zimtsterne to perfection.

Step 2: Blend the Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, combine ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar, 10 ounces of sliced almonds, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Pulsing the mixture until finely ground will create a smooth consistency. This blend not only adds flavor but also forms the heart of your Zimtsterne dough, so take a moment to achieve that even texture.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
Grab your electric mixer and whip 2 egg whites in a large bowl until soft peaks begin to form. Gradually incorporate the remaining confectioners’ sugar until the mixture appears thick and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving the delightful meringue texture that complements the cookie base of the Zimtsterne.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the almond mixture and the finely grated lemon zest into the whipped egg whites. Be careful not to deflate the meringue; aim for a stiff dough that holds its shape well. This step brings together the rich flavors and textures, forming what will soon become your heavenly Zimtsterne cookies.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
On a clean surface or between sheets of parchment paper, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a star cookie cutter, cut out shapes to create your festive cookies. The rolled-out dough should be slightly tacky but manageable, allowing for clean cuts and a professional look to your Zimtsterne.

Step 6: Apply the Meringue Topping
Spread a thin layer of the reserved meringue mixture on top of each star-shaped cookie. As you do this, decorate them with additional almond slices for that festive flair. This topping not only enhances aesthetics but also provides a delightful chewy contrast once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Carefully transfer the cookies to your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The Zimtsterne are ready when the bottoms are light golden brown, and the meringue has set to a lovely sheen. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake, achieving that perfect balance of textures.

Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, turn off the oven but leave the cookies inside with the door slightly ajar for about 10 minutes. This gradual cooling process allows the Zimtsterne to firm up without losing their irresistible chewy center, making your cookies ready to enjoy once fully cooled.

Make Ahead Options

These Zimtsterne are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, if you want to save even more time, you can cut out the star shapes and freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 weeks—just layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy scrumptious, freshly baked Zimtsterne whenever the festive mood strikes!

Expert Tips for Zimtsterne

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for maximum volume when whipped. Cold egg whites don’t whip well!
Avoid Sticking: Lightly flour your work surface or use parchment paper to prevent sticking while rolling out the dough. Sticky dough can be a hassle.
Meringue Control: Be cautious not to let the meringue drip over the edges of the cookies when spreading; it can affect the baking texture of Zimtsterne.
Cool Gradually: After baking, let cookies cool in the oven with the door ajar for 10 minutes. This helps achieve the right chewy texture.
Freezing Extra Dough: Unused dough can be frozen between parchment sheets for up to two weeks. A great way to make Zimtsterne ahead of time!

What to Serve with 5-Ingredient Zimtsterne?

Indulge in a festive feast by pairing these delightful cookies with comforting sides and drinks that enhance the holiday spirit.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy sweetness of hot cocoa complements the spiced flavor of Zimtsterne, creating a cozy winter pairing.
Spiced Mulled Wine: This aromatic beverage with hints of cinnamon and citrus enhances the cookies’ flavors and invites warmth to your gathering.
Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightens up the dessert table, providing a delightful contrast to the cookies.
German Christmas Stollen: Enjoy a slice of this traditional fruit and nut bread, reminiscent of holidays in Germany, elevating your cookie experience.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the spirit of the season with companions that also share spice notes, creating a nostalgic cookie tray for all to enjoy.
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: The luscious chocolate pairs beautifully with Zimtsterne, blending the sweet and savory flavors of the holidays into one exquisite treat.
Classic Eggnog: Creamy and rich, eggnog offers a festive indulgence that marries well with the cookies’ nutty and spiced characteristics, making every bite magical.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast, cooling down each bite of the warm, chewy cookies.
Cranberry Sauce: Adding a tart citrus burst, cranberry sauce refreshes the palate after sweet bites, making every cookie taste even better.

Storage Tips for Zimtsterne

Room Temperature: Store cooled Zimtsterne cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks; however, this may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough between parchment sheets for up to 2 weeks. Simply thaw before rolling out and baking whenever you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating: When enjoying leftovers, you can slightly warm the cookies in the oven at a low temperature for added freshness—perfect for a cozy treat!

Zimtsterne: Customize Your Cookies!

Feel free to play around with these divine Zimtsterne cookies to make them your own and add a personal touch.

Nutty Swap: Replace sliced almonds with chopped hazelnuts or pistachios for a delightful twist. Each nut brings its own unique flavor, transforming the cookies into something special.
Spice It Up: Swap ground cinnamon for a mix of warm spices like cardamom and nutmeg. This aromatic twist adds depth and an exotic flair to the traditional flavor.
Sweet Topping: After baking, dust the cookies with a fine layer of powdered sugar for added sweetness and a snowy look. It’s a simple decoration that elevates the festive appeal.
Citrusy Infusion: Add a bit of orange zest along with lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor boost. This tangy twist makes your cookies pop with freshness, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of cooled cookies for a rich contrast. The decadence of chocolate paired with the almond and cinnamon flavors creates an irresistible combination.
Lower Sugar: For a health-conscious alternative, reduce the confectioners’ sugar amount slightly and increase the nuts to maintain balance. You’ll still have yummy cookies without all the added sweetness.
Gluten-Free Flour: If nut allergies are a concern, swap almonds with a gluten-free flour blend. Experimenting with different flours can introduce new textures that are equally enjoyable.
Spicy Kick: Finally, for those who adore a bit of heat, sprinkle a touch of cayenne pepper into the dough. It’s an unexpected twist that adds an exhilarating flavor dimension that might just surprise your guests!

Incorporating your own special variations can elevate these Zimtsterne cookies to new heights. And if you’re looking for more cookie creations, don’t miss our delicious holiday cookie recipes that will surely inspire your festive baking!

Zimtsterne Recipe FAQs

What type of almonds should I use for Zimtsterne?
Absolutely! For Zimtsterne, I recommend using sliced almonds for their delightful crunch and nutty flavor. If you’d prefer a finer texture, feel free to swap them out for ground almonds or almond flour—both alternatives work wonderfully!

How do I store leftover Zimtsterne cookies?
You can store cooled Zimtsterne cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days. This helps retain their delightful chewy center and crisp exterior.

Can I freeze Zimtsterne dough?
Yes, indeed! If you have extra dough, you can freeze it between sheets of parchment paper for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to bake more cookies, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight, then roll it out and cut your stars as you normally would.

What should I do if my meringue mixture is too runny?
Very! If your meringue mixture is runny, try whipping the egg whites longer until they reach stiff peaks. You can also ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease, as even a small amount can affect the egg whites’ ability to whip properly.

Are Zimtsterne gluten-free?
Absolutely! These delightful cookies are naturally gluten-free since they use almonds instead of flour. However, always double-check that your baking ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions at home.

What’s the best way to prevent Zimtsterne from sticking while rolling out the dough?
I often sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on my work surface or use parchment paper when rolling out the dough. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a little extra sweetness to your cookies!