Cinnamon Stars
Cinnamon Stars - The Delight of the Holidays
Almost every year, around this time, women from different corners of the world are swept up in the frenzy of baking seasonal cookies for Advent. Among these delights, cinnamon stars are among the most loved and sought after. Although their name suggests a strong cinnamon flavor, the main ingredient is actually ground almonds, and the icing is made from egg whites. This simple yet refined recipe will bring a touch of magic to your home, and I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 stars
Ingredients:
- 250 g ground almonds
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon almond liqueur or rum
- For the icing:
- 1 egg white
- 125 g powdered sugar
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the almonds are freshly ground, as their aroma and texture will influence the final result. If you have whole almonds, you can grind them at home using a blender or food processor. Additionally, for an explosion of flavor, choose a quality almond liqueur or rum.
Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the ground almonds with the powdered sugar and ground cinnamon. Ensure they are well integrated, so that the cinnamon flavor and sweetness of the sugar are evenly distributed. Add the egg white and the chosen liqueur, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is normal for the dough to be a bit sticky, so don’t worry!
Step 3: Shaping the stars
Sprinkle powdered sugar on a clean work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 cm. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even surface. With the help of a star-shaped cutter (or a cookie cutter), cut out the desired shapes. If you don’t have specific shapes, you can use a knife to create crescents or other shapes.
Step 4: Preparing the icing
In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar (125 g) and continue mixing until you obtain a glossy and firm icing. It is essential not to add the sugar too quickly, as the icing will not have the desired consistency.
Step 5: Applying the icing and baking
Using a brush, coat each star with the egg white icing. Ensure that each shape is well covered, as this will create that appetizing crust after baking. Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius and place the stars on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, being careful not to let them yellow. Watch them closely; they should remain white, and the icing should become slightly glossy.
Step 6: Cooling and serving
Once you’ve taken them out of the oven, let them cool on a cooling rack. These cinnamon stars are irresistible, containing no flour, making them a perfect choice for both vegans and those following a gluten-free diet.
Serving suggestions:
These delicious stars are perfect for serving at a holiday table alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. You can add a splash of almond liqueur to your drink to enhance the flavors! They are also excellent for gifting, beautifully packaged in decorative boxes.
Nutritional information:
Per serving (about 2 stars):
- Calories: approximately 150
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 3 g
These cookies are rich in protein and healthy fats thanks to the almonds, which are an excellent source of vitamin E and antioxidants.
Possible variations:
If you want to try a different version, you can add a little vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor or substitute the powdered sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia for a healthier option. Instead of almond liqueur, you can experiment with orange or lemon essences to add a citrus note.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole almonds instead of ground almonds?
- Yes, but make sure to grind them very well to achieve a fine texture.
2. How can I store the cinnamon stars?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for several days.
3. Can I replace the egg whites with a vegan substitute?
- Yes, you can use a plant-based egg white substitute, such as aquafaba (chickpea water) to achieve a similar icing.
4. What other desserts pair well with these stars?
- These stars are delicious alongside chocolate cookies or nut cookies, creating a varied dessert platter for the holidays.
Making these cinnamon stars is not only a delightful activity but also a way to bring family and friends together. So don’t hesitate! Put on your holiday attire, open the oven, and let yourself be carried away by the aromas and joy of cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 250 g of ground almonds, 150 g of powdered sugar, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder, one egg white, one tablespoon of almond liqueur or rum. For the icing: one egg white, 125 g of powdered sugar.
