๐ฆ๐น Austrian Cinnamon Stars, known as “Zimtsterne” in German, are delightful Christmas cookies that are popular in Austria and other German-speaking countries. They are traditionally made during the holiday season and are loved for their aromatic cinnamon flavor and sweet almond taste. Here’s a detailed response with emojis for each part of your question:
What is it? ๐ช
Austrian Cinnamon Stars, or Zimtsterne, are delicious, gluten-free cookies made from ground almonds, sugar, egg whites, and a generous amount of cinnamon. They are shaped like stars and are often decorated with a sugary glaze on top.
History ๐
The exact origin of Zimtsterne is a bit unclear, but they are a traditional Christmas treat that has been enjoyed for generations in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. These cookies are thought to have originated in the Alpine region and have become an integral part of the Christmas cookie culture in these countries.
Components ๐ฅ
The primary ingredients for Austrian Cinnamon Stars are:
- Ground almonds: These provide the cookie’s nutty flavor and structure.
- Sugar: Used to sweeten the dough.
- Egg whites: These help bind the ingredients and give the cookies a delicate texture.
- Cinnamon: The star ingredient, providing the cookies with their warm and aromatic flavor.
- Lemon juice and zest: These add a citrusy note to balance the sweetness and cinnamon.
Steps to Prepare ๐ฝ๏ธ
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This creates a fragrant, crumbly mixture.
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Whip Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will add airiness to the cookies.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the almond mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites.
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Roll Out Dough: Dust your work surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
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Cut Star Shapes: Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Glaze: If desired, you can prepare a glaze with powdered sugar and lemon juice. Brush this glaze over the cookies for a shiny finish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 300ยฐF (150ยฐC) and bake the cookies for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool.
Time Needed โฑ๏ธ
The preparation time for Austrian Cinnamon Stars can vary, but you can expect to spend around 30 minutes preparing the dough and cutting out the cookies. Baking typically takes 15-20 minutes. So, in total, you can have a batch of these delicious cookies ready in about 45-50 minutes.
Enjoy your homemade Austrian Cinnamon Stars, and may they fill your home with the warm, cozy scents of the holiday season! ๐๐๐
๐ Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Austrian Cinnamon Stars (Zimtsterne):
Nutrition Facts (per serving, about 2 cookies):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Total Fat: 7-9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 8-10 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 7-9 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size.
Health Information:
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Almonds: The use of ground almonds in Zimtsterne provides healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy, and they are packed with vitamin E and other essential nutrients.
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Cinnamon: Cinnamon is not just a delicious spice; it also has potential health benefits. It has antioxidant properties and may help lower blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and provide other health advantages. However, the amounts used in Zimtsterne are relatively small.
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Sugar: These cookies contain sugar for sweetness, so they are a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. Excessive sugar intake can contribute to health issues like obesity and dental problems.
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Gluten-Free: Austrian Cinnamon Stars are naturally gluten-free, which is beneficial for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Protein: The cookies provide a small amount of protein, thanks to the ground almonds and egg whites, which can contribute to your daily protein intake.
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Low Sodium and Cholesterol: These cookies are very low in sodium and cholesterol, which can be a positive aspect for heart health.
It’s important to remember that while Austrian Cinnamon Stars can be enjoyed in moderation, they are still a sweet treat and should be balanced with a well-rounded diet. As with any food, individual nutritional needs may vary, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist if you have specific dietary concerns. ๐๐๐
