Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cinnamon Stars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2.25 cups Confectioners' sugar (sifted); 15 ounces Sliced almonds (about 4 ½ cups); 1.25 teaspoons Ground cinnamon; 3 large Egg whites (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons Finely grated lemon zest; 0.67 cups Reserved meringue mixture; Additional sliced almonds (as desired for decoration)

There’s a sense of warmth that fills my kitchen when I start preparing Cinnamon Stars, or Zimtsterne as they are lovingly called. The familiar scent of cinnamon wafting through the air transports me to festive gatherings, where these delightful cookies are always a hit. Whether you’re hosting a holiday get-together or just looking to satisfy a sweet craving, these star-shaped treats are sure to impress.

With just a few simple ingredients — sliced almonds, egg whites, and a hint of lemon zest — this recipe transforms into cookie magic. What’s even better? It’s a fun, hands-on experience that the whole family can enjoy. Picture the laughter around the table as you cut out stars and decorate them with luscious meringue.

So, if you find yourself bored with the same old desserts or tired of fast food, why not give these Cinnamon Stars a try? They’re not just another cookie; they’re a sweet adventure waiting to happen! Let’s gather the ingredients and get baking!

Why love these Cinnamon Stars?

Deliciously sweet and subtly spiced, these Cinnamon Stars are the perfect holiday treat! Simple process: with just a few pantry staples, you can whip these up in just over an hour. Family fun: kids will love helping to roll, cut, and decorate. Impressive presentation: their star shape and meringue topping make them a showstopper. Versatile joy: serve them at festive gatherings or enjoy them as an everyday snack. If you’re seeking easy yet delightful homemade options, these cookies will surely satisfy your sweet tooth!

Cinnamon Stars Ingredients

Prepare to indulge in a delicious baking adventure!

For the Cookies

Confectioners’ sugar – 2 ¼ cups (247 g), sifted; this sweetener creates a delicate meringue topping for our Cinnamon Stars.
Sliced almonds – 15 ounces (425 g), about 4 ½ cups; these add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spice.
Ground cinnamon – 1 ¼ teaspoons; this key spice brings warmth and a nostalgic aroma to your cookie dough.
Egg whites – 3 large, at room temperature; they whip up beautifully to form a light and airy meringue.
Finely grated lemon zest – 2 teaspoons; adds a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor.

For the Topping

Reserved meringue mixture – 2/3 cup; use this to create a lovely, glossy finish on top of each star cookie.
Additional sliced almonds – as desired for decoration; sprinkle these on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Cinnamon Stars

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature ensures our cookies dry out nicely without browning too quickly. Line your baking sheets with silicone liners or parchment paper for easy removal later.
Combine 1/2 cup (55g) of the confectioners’ sugar, 10 ounces (283g) of the sliced almonds, and the ground cinnamon in a food processor. Process until the almonds are finely ground, creating a lovely nutty mix.
Whip the egg whites using an electric mixer on high speed until they hold soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining confectioners’ sugar, continuing to mix for about 2 minutes until the mixture is thick and creamy—almost like a cloud! Set aside 2/3 cup of this mix for later use.
Fold the ground almond mixture and lemon zest gently into the whipped egg whites. This is crucial for achieving a stiff dough that holds its shape while baking.
Prepare your workspace by laying a sheet of parchment paper or waxed paper flat. Place the dough on it, flatten it out, and dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar. Cover the dough with another sheet of paper to make rolling easier.
Roll the dough between the two sheets of paper to a 1/4-inch thickness. Be gentle as you flip the dough over and peel off the top sheet of paper, then lay it back on to remove the other sheet.
Cut out the cookies using a 3-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gather and re-roll any leftover dough to maximize your cookie output!
Spread the remaining meringue mixture on top of each cookie with an offset spatula or small spoon, taking care not to let it drip over the edges. Sprinkle additional sliced almonds on top for that beautiful crunch.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the bottoms are light golden brown and the meringue is set and crisp. After baking, turn off the oven and slightly crack the door, allowing the cookies to dry for an extra 10 minutes.

Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Stars

Fridge: Store your Cinnamon Stars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their crisp meringue and delicious flavor.

Freezer: If you’re looking to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of Cinnamon Stars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a slightly warm cookie, heat them in the oven at 180°F (82°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will refresh the texture beautifully!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Stars

Sift Sugar: Always sift your confectioners’ sugar to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth meringue for your Cinnamon Stars.
Egg Whites: Use room temperature egg whites; they whip up better and help create that airy texture in your cookies.
Fold Gently: When combining the almond mix with the egg whites, be gentle to maintain the fluffy consistency necessary for perfect baking results.
Space Out Cookies: Place cookies at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to prevent sticking; they’ll spread a bit during baking.
Oven Door Trick: Let the cookies dry in the turned-off oven to achieve a perfect texture. This also helps avoid a chewy bottom.
Decorate Playfully: Get creative with your toppings! Use a variety of almond patterns on your Cinnamon Stars to make them visually stunning for any occasion.

Cinnamon Stars Variations

Customize your Cinnamon Stars to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences, creating delightful twists with every batch!

Nut-Free: Substitute sliced almonds with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free cookie that maintains great texture and flavor.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the mixture for an extra layer of warm spices that will dance on your palate. Experiment with different spices to discover your perfect blend!
Zesty Kick: Replace lemon zest with orange zest for a brighter, citrusy twist that complements the sweetness beautifully. The aroma of orange will reawaken your senses!
Low-Sugar: Use granulated erythritol or a preferred sugar alternative in place of confectioners’ sugar to reduce sugar levels while keeping that sweet cookie essence.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an indulgent chocolate complement that will elevate your Cinnamon Stars to gourmet delight.
Add Heat: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the meringue mix for a surprising spicy kick that adds depth and character to every bite.
Gluten-Free: Switch to almond flour instead of sliced almonds and double-check your confectioners’ sugar for gluten content to create a gluten-free version everyone can enjoy.
Coconut Flavor: Mix in shredded unsweetened coconut into the dough for added texture and a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the allure of cinnamon.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Stars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it to maintain its freshness. For even quicker baking, consider cutting out the star shapes ahead of time and placing them on baking sheets, then storing the sheets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the meringue mixture on top and pop them in the oven. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade cookies at your fingertips, ready to impress your family without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Stars?

Create a beautiful feast that pairs perfectly with these delightful cookies, enhancing your dessert experience.

Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai beautifully complement the cinnamon in your cookies, making for a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of your Cinnamon Stars into rich melted chocolate for a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cool, creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside these star-shaped cookies adds a luscious contrast to their crunchy meringue.
Mulled Wine: The comforting spices in mulled wine harmonize with the cinnamon flavor, creating a perfect drink pairing for a festive evening.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with citrus and berries adds a light, zesty element, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Espresso: The rich, bold flavor of espresso provides a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of Cinnamon Stars, enhancing your coffee moments.

Imagine the joy as you serve these delightful pairings at your next gathering, creating a warm atmosphere filled with laughter and unforgettable flavors.

Cinnamon Stars Recipe FAQs

What type of almonds should I use for Cinnamon Stars?
Absolutely! I recommend using sliced almonds, as they provide the perfect balance of flavor and crunch for these cookies. Look for ones that are fresh and have a nice, light color without any dark spots or signs of rancidity. Fresh almonds will bring a delicious nuttiness to your treats!

How should I store my Cinnamon Stars?
You can store your Cinnamon Stars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their lovely crisp texture. For longer storage, refrigerate them to enhance their freshness and flavor, but make sure they are well sealed to prevent them from absorbing any moisture.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Stars? How?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Cinnamon Stars, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until they are firm, usually about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary, and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes!

What should I do if my egg whites don’t whip up properly?
Very frustrating! If your egg whites aren’t whipping up to soft peaks, make sure:

Your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease, which can prevent the egg whites from aerating properly.
Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature; they whip up better when warm.
If they still don’t foam, try adding a pinch of cream of tartar or lemon juice, which can help stabilize the meringue.

Are Cinnamon Stars suitable for those with nut allergies?
These delightful cookies are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies since they contain sliced almonds. For a nut-free alternative, you might consider using a seed-based substitute, like sunflower seeds, and adjusting the proportions accordingly. Always check with your guests before serving to ensure everyone can enjoy the treats safely!