Stars with walnut and orange
Nut and Orange Stars – Christmas Cookies for the Soul
Christmas is approaching rapidly, and the aroma of nuts and oranges reminds us of the warm moments spent with loved ones. These nut and orange stars are not only delicious cookies but also a wonderful way to bring joy and smiles to the faces of those around us. Tender, fragrant, and with a shiny glaze, these cookies are perfect to be gifted to Santa Claus or enjoyed with a cup of hot tea.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-17 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: Approximately 30 stars
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 125 g margarine (Rama margarine is ideal for a fine texture)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (water can also be used, but orange juice adds an unmistakable flavor)
- Zest from 1/2 orange (choose an organic orange to avoid pesticides)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 60 g ground walnuts (preferably freshly ground for an intense taste)
- 160-170 g flour (you can use whole wheat flour for extra fiber)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm and comforting scent)
For the glaze:
- Approximately 12 teaspoons powdered sugar
- Orange juice (a few tablespoons to achieve a creamy consistency)
Step by Step
1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by letting the margarine soften at room temperature. In a large bowl, cream the margarine with a pinch of salt, sugar, and vanilla sugar using a mixer or spatula. Continue until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
2. Adding Flavors:
Add the ground walnuts, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon. These ingredients will give the cookies a rich taste and irresistible aroma. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
3. Incorporating the Flour:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add it to the margarine mixture. Use a spoon to mix, then, when the dough becomes harder to mix, transfer it to a floured work surface.
4. Kneading the Dough:
Gently knead the dough with your hands until it becomes homogeneous and slightly sticky. Do not knead too much, as we want to achieve a fragile texture.
5. Chilling the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for one hour. This step is essential for achieving optimal texture.
6. Cutting the Stars:
After an hour, take the dough out of the refrigerator and let it acclimate to room temperature for about 10 minutes. On a floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 5 mm. Use a star-shaped cutter to cut out the cookies.
7. Baking:
Place the stars on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. Bake the cookies for 15-17 minutes or until they become slightly golden at the edges. It is important to watch them, as each oven bakes differently.
8. Cooling and Glazing:
After baking, let the stars cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with orange juice. Brush each star with this delicious glaze. If desired, you can add colorful sprinkles for a festive look!
Serving Suggestions
These nut and orange stars can be enjoyed alongside a cup of winter tea or a flavorful cappuccino. You can give them as Christmas gifts, carefully wrapped in beautiful boxes, bringing joy to your loved ones.
Variations and Tips
For a healthier version, you can replace part of the margarine with coconut oil. You can also experiment by adding other spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, to give these cookies an even more exotic touch.
Nutritional Benefits
These cookies are rich in nuts, which are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. The orange adds vitamin C, essential for strengthening the immune system during the cold season.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter is an excellent alternative for a richer flavor and finer texture.
2. How can I store the cookies?
These stars store well in an airtight container for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator before using.
These nut and orange stars are not just a recipe, but an experience that brings the magic of Christmas in every bite. Enjoy every moment of making them and savor the warmth and aroma of winter with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 125 g Rama margarine, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoons orange juice (you can also use water), grated zest from 1/2 orange, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 60 g ground walnuts, 160-170 g flour, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Glaze: approx. 12 teaspoons powdered sugar, orange juice.
