Description
German Cinnamon Stars Cookies are the kind of festive treat that instantly makes a kitchen smell like the holidays. These soft, chewy almond cinnamon cookies are topped with a sweet white glaze and shaped into charming stars, making them perfect for Christmas baking, cookie exchanges, dessert trays, and cozy afternoon coffee breaks. If you are looking for an easy holiday cookie, a classic German dessert, a make-ahead sweet treat, or fresh baking ideas for winter gatherings, this recipe brings warm spice, beautiful texture, and timeless charm to every bite.
Ingredients
3 cups almond flour
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
2 large egg whites
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 300°F.
2. Beat the egg whites in a large bowl until foamy, then gradually beat in 2 cups of the powdered sugar until the mixture is glossy and forms soft peaks.
3. Reserve about 1/2 cup of this mixture for glazing the tops of the cookies.
4. Fold the almond flour, remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt into the remaining egg white mixture.
5. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then cover and chill for 30 minutes.
6. Dust a work surface with powdered sugar and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Cut out star shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Spread the reserved glaze over the top of each star, leaving the edges visible.
9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the tops are set and the cookies are lightly dry.
10. Cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
Use powdered sugar on the work surface instead of flour so the dough stays true to its soft almond texture.
Do not overbake the cookies or they can lose their signature chewy center.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: German Cinnamon Stars Cookies, zimtsterne, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, almond cookies, cinnamon cookies, easy holiday dessert, festive baking, cookie exchange recipe, dessert ideas