Name: Delicious Zimtsterne: Easy Gluten-Free Cinnamon Star Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar (Swap with powdered erythritol for a sugar-free version.); 10 ounces Sliced Almonds (Can be replaced with almond flour or ground hazelnuts.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (Try Vietnamese cinnamon for a richer flavor.); 4 large Egg Whites (Use aquafaba for an egg-free alternative.); 1 finely grated lemon Lemon Zest (Orange zest can also substitute well.); ⅔ cup Reserved Whipped Egg Whites (Creates a glossy finish on top of the cookies.)

As I unwrapped the festive package of spices, the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon danced through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. Zimtsterne, the beloved German cinnamon star cookies, evoke that very spirit of Christmas cheer, enchanting everyone who tastes them. With just five simple ingredients, these gluten-free delights are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and novice cooks alike. The combination of almonds and cinnamon creates a texture that’s both crunchy and delightfully chewy, ensuring they’re not just treats but cherished memories in the making. So, why not bring a touch of tradition to your holiday season? Ready to dive into the magic of Zimtsterne?

Why Are Zimtsterne So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: These cookies bring a wonderful blend of cinnamon and almond, creating a festive taste that perfectly embodies the holiday season.

Easy to Make: With just five simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can achieve delicious results, allowing everyone to join in the holiday baking fun.

Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for gluten-sensitive friends or family, these cookies don’t skimp on flavor or texture, making them a hit for all!

Versatile Options: Customize them effortlessly—try different nuts or a splash of vanilla for a unique twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their adorable star shape and delightful crunch ensure they’ll be the star of any cookie platter, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or gifting.

Zimtsterne Ingredients

• Perfect for holiday baking!

For the Cookie Dough

Confectioners’ Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; swap with powdered erythritol for a sugar-free version.
Sliced Almonds – Adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture; can be replaced with almond flour or ground hazelnuts for a different taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice; try Vietnamese cinnamon for a richer flavor.
Large Egg Whites – Acts as a binder and gives meringue structure; use aquafaba for an egg-free alternative.
Finely Grated Lemon Zest – Enhances flavor with a citrus note; orange zest can also substitute well.

For the Meringue Topping

Reserved Whipped Egg Whites – Creates a glossy finish on top of the cookies, adding an irresistible appeal.

These delightful Zimtsterne cookies are simple to make with these key ingredients, ensuring that the holiday spirit is alive and well in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Zimtsterne

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with silicone liners or parchment paper. This preparation ensures that your gluten-free Zimtsterne will bake evenly and allow for easy removal once they’re done.

Step 2: Blend the Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, combine ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar, 10 ounces of sliced almonds, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a fine consistency, ensuring a smooth texture for your cookies. This blend will provide the core flavors for your delectable Zimtsterne.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, whip 4 large egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar while mixing, creating a thick and creamy meringue. Reserve ⅔ cup of this mixture for later use on top of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the ground almond mixture and finely grated zest of 1 lemon into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to mix until a stiff dough forms, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. This step is crucial for developing the signature texture of your Zimtsterne cookies.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough
To shape your Zimtsterne, roll out the stiff dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about ¼-inch thickness. Ensure the dough is even for uniform baking. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out your cookies and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving a bit of space between each star to allow for expansion.

Step 6: Add Meringue Topping
Using the reserved meringue, spread a thin layer over the top of each star-shaped cookie, creating a glossy finish. In this step, you can also sprinkle a few additional sliced almonds to enhance texture and appearance. This meringue topping will provide the delightful crunch atop your gluten-free Zimtsterne.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for a light golden brown color on the bottoms and set meringue on top. Once they’re done, you’ll know your Zimtsterne are ready when they feel firm to the touch but spring back slightly.

Step 8: Cool and Dry
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open, leaving the cookies inside to dry for about 10 minutes. This gentle cooling period allows the cookies to finish setting while preventing any cracking in the delicate meringue. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed or stored in an airtight container!

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Zimtsterne?

The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats while creating a delightful dining experience for family and friends.

Festive Hot Chocolate: Warm, rich hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream, pairs beautifully with the spiced notes of the cookies for a cozy treat.
Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with orange, grapefruit, and a drizzle of honey brightens up the palate, balancing the richness of the Zimtsterne.
Gingerbread Muffins: These warm muffins echo the holiday flavors and provide a soft texture that complements the chewiness of the cookies.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic blend of spiced chai enhances the cinnamon flavor in the cookies, creating a warm beverage to sip alongside.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a different texture while keeping the nutty notes alive, perfect for pairing with coffee.
Mulled Wine: Fragrant mulled wine with hints of cloves and star anise rounds out your dessert table, echoing the flavors of the Zimtsterne beautifully.
Chestnut Puree: Sweet chestnut puree adds a luxurious touch, perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh baguette to enjoy with your cookies.
Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce can serve as a delightful dip for the cookies, adding a festive zing to each bite.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Zimtsterne cookies are perfect for busy holiday preparations! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it out and cutting it into star shapes, then placing them on a lined baking sheet. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, if you want to plan even further ahead, freeze the unbaked cookies for up to two weeks; just ensure they’re spaced apart to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before spreading the reserved meringue and baking as directed. This approach saves time and ensures your Zimtsterne are just as delicious and fresh when it’s time to serve!

How to Store and Freeze Zimtsterne

Airtight Container: Store your baked Zimtsterne in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Freezer: Unbaked dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out and baking.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes to bring back that delicious chewy texture.

Moisture Control: To prevent cookies from becoming too soft, avoid exposing them to moisture and always keep them sealed in their container.

Zimtsterne Variations to Try!

Feel free to explore these creative twists to make your gluten-free Zimtsterne even more delightful!

Nut Swap: Replace sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. Each nut brings its own charm, adding variety to your cookie tray.
Vanilla Bliss: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an added layer of sweetness. It enhances the warm flavors and brings a harmonious touch to each bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising hint of heat. This unexpected twist will tantalize your taste buds and impress adventurous eaters.
Citrusy Lift: Experiment with orange or lime zest instead of lemon for a zesty kick. The citrus notes pair beautifully with cinnamon, creating a refreshing flavor profile.
Icing Decor: Decorate with colorful icing or edible glitter for a festive flair. This cheerful touch not only adds beauty but also makes them irresistible for the holiday celebrations!
Gluten-Free Flour Blend: If you want to experiment further, you can substitute almond flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a different texture. Each option will provide a unique yet delightful cookie experience.
Minty Freshness: Infuse peppermint extract into the dough for a refreshing holiday twist. The combination of mint and cinnamon will leave you feeling festive and cozy.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked cookies for an indulgent finish. This extra layer of flavor brings a luxurious touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Each of these variations provides an opportunity to make cherished memories in the kitchen, turning your flavorful Zimtsterne into a family favorite!

Expert Tips for Making Zimtsterne

Chill the Dough: For easier rolling, pop the dough into the freezer for 15-20 minutes. This helps manage stickiness and makes cutting out shapes simpler.

Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This maximizes volume and gives your meringue its signature light texture.

Avoid Overmixing: When folding the almond mixture into the egg whites, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can deflate the air whipped into the egg whites, resulting in denser cookies.

Perfect Meringue: Reserve some meringue for topping right after whipping. This ensures you have enough for that glossy finish and adds a delightful crunchy layer atop your Zimtsterne.

Storage Tip: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough for up to two weeks, allowing for fresh cookies anytime!

Zimtsterne Recipe FAQs

What type of almonds should I use for Zimtsterne?
I recommend using sliced almonds for the best texture and flavor, but you can substitute them with almond flour or ground hazelnuts if you prefer. Just keep the weight the same for a successful swap!

How long can I store my baked Zimtsterne cookies?
Baked Zimtsterne can be enjoyed fresh or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days. To maintain their delightful chewiness, avoid exposing them to moisture.

Can I freeze Zimtsterne dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 2 weeks. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then thaw it in the fridge before rolling out and cutting into shapes. This allows you to enjoy the cookies fresh any time!

What should I do if my cookie dough becomes too sticky?
If you find your dough sticking while rolling, don’t fret! Lightly dust your work surface and rolling pin with additional confectioners’ sugar to manage stickiness. Chilling the dough in the freezer for 15-20 minutes can also make it easier to handle.

Are Zimtsterne safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, Zimtsterne contain almonds, which are a common nut allergen. For those with nut sensitivities, I suggest exploring alternative recipes that cater specifically to nut-free diets. Always check ingredient labels when trying to accommodate allergies!

Can I use egg substitutes for the meringue?
Yes! If you’re looking for an egg-free version, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) is a fantastic substitute. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white. Just whip it until it’s frothy and substitute it in the same way you would with egg whites!