Cinnamon Star Cookies with Almond Glaze
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the festive flavors of these Cinnamon Star Cookies, beautifully adorned with a sweet almond glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a charming gift.
Cinnamon Star Cookies are a beloved holiday treat, combining warm spices with a sweet almond glaze that adds a delightful finish. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also pack a flavorful punch that will leave your guests craving more.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- A delightful combination of warm cinnamon and nutty almond flavors
- Beautiful star shape that adds a festive touch to your holiday table
- Soft texture with a sweet glaze that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season
A Festive Treat for Every Occasion
Cinnamon Star Cookies are not just a holiday treat; they are a delightful addition to any festive gathering. Whether you're hosting a cozy get-together or attending a holiday party, these cookies are sure to impress your guests. Their charming star shape and aromatic cinnamon flavor will evoke the spirit of the season, making them a beloved treat for everyone.
These cookies also make for a wonderful homemade gift. Pack them in a decorative tin or a festive box, and you have a heartfelt present that friends and family will appreciate. The combination of the sweet almond glaze and the warm spices creates a memorable flavor experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Star Cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This will help create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with sugar. Additionally, when rolling out the dough, use a floured surface to prevent sticking, and try to keep the dough at an even thickness for uniform baking.
Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you find the dough too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you roll it out. Remember, each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies and remove them once the edges are just lightly golden for the best results.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Enjoy these Cinnamon Star Cookies fresh out of the oven as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the glazed cookies for a decadent twist.
If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating different spices into the cookie dough. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of nuts in the glaze, such as crushed walnuts or pecans, to give the cookies a unique twist that suits your taste preferences.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Almond Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds for garnish
Make sure to sift the powdered sugar for a smoother glaze.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Cut and Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out star shapes using a cookie cutter.
Prepare the Almond Glaze
In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, almond milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more almond milk if necessary.
Glaze the Cookies
Dip the cooled cookies into the almond glaze and place them on a wire rack to set. Garnish with sliced almonds while the glaze is still wet.
Enjoy your beautiful Cinnamon Star Cookies with Almond Glaze!
Storage Tips
To keep your Cinnamon Star Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but their delightful flavor is best enjoyed within the first few days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and they can be enjoyed later on.
When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or gently reheat them in the oven for a warm treat. This way, you can indulge in the festive flavors of these cookies anytime you desire.
Nutritional Information
These Cinnamon Star Cookies, while a delightful treat, should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each cookie contains essential ingredients like butter and sugar, contributing to its rich flavor and texture. However, for those mindful of sugar intake, consider reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute in the recipe.
Incorporating nuts into the cookies not only adds flavor but also boosts their nutritional value, providing healthy fats and protein. Remember to consider any dietary restrictions when sharing these cookies, as they contain gluten and dairy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.
What can I substitute for almond milk? If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, feel free to use regular milk or a non-dairy alternative like oat milk or soy milk. Each option will lend its unique taste to the glaze, so choose what you enjoy best.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut for the glaze?
Yes, you can substitute almond extract with hazelnut or vanilla extract for a different flavor.
→ How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before using.
→ Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without glaze. Just thaw and glaze them when ready to serve.
Cinnamon Star Cookies with Almond Glaze
Delight in the festive flavors of these Cinnamon Star Cookies, beautifully adorned with a sweet almond glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a charming gift.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Almond Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out star shapes using a cookie cutter. Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely.
In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, almond milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more almond milk if necessary.
Dip the cooled cookies into the almond glaze and place them on a wire rack to set. Garnish with sliced almonds while the glaze is still wet.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g