How to Make Zimtsterne - A Step-by-Step Guide

Zimtsterne, or cinnamon stars, are a traditional German Christmas cookie that has been enjoyed for centuries. These delightful treats are packed with warm, aromatic flavors and a hint of sweetness, making them a perfect addition to any holiday spread. The name "Zimtsterne" comes from the German words "Zimt," which means cinnamon, and "Sterne," which means stars, referring to the cookies' distinct shape and flavor.

These cookies are not only popular in Germany, but they are also enjoye...

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Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 ½ cups white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup finely chopped walnuts

Information

  • Prep Time: 40 mins
  • Cook Time: 6 mins
  • Total Time: 46 mins
  • Servings: 120
  • Yield: 9 to 10 - dozen

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease your baking sheets.
  • Cream the butter, sugar, 2 eggs, egg yolk and lemon juice together until fluffy.
  • Combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg. Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture and stir in the chopped nuts.
  • On a lightly floured cloth-covered board roll the dough, 1/3 at a time, to 1/16 inch thick. Cut with a 1 inch star shaped cookie cutter. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Brush the tops of the cookies with the remaining egg white, beaten until frothy.
  • Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 6 to 8 minutes.
  • Variations: Food coloring may be added to the egg white used to brush the tops of the cookies. Two cookies may be put together to form snowflakes with dabs of confectioners' sugar icing made with 1 cup confectioners' sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons cream.
  • Nutrition

    26 cal.

    • Total Fat: 1g
    • Saturated Fat: 0g
    • Cholesterol: 6mg
    • Sodium: 18mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 5g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 1g
    • Calcium: 8mg
    • Iron: 0mg
    • Potassium: 6mg