Cinnamon Star Cookies with Almond Glaze
Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes
Delight in the festive flavor of Cinnamon Star Cookies adorned with a sweet almond glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful treat any time of the year.
These Cinnamon Star Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their star shape and aromatic cinnamon flavor make them a favorite among family and friends.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- A warm blend of cinnamon that fills your kitchen with a festive aroma
- Elegant almond glaze that adds a beautiful finish
- Perfectly spiced and sweet, these cookies are a holiday classic
The Essence of Holiday Baking
There's something undeniably magical about baking during the holiday season. The warmth of the oven, the enticing aromas wafting through your home, and the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones create a cozy atmosphere that enhances any celebration. Cinnamon Star Cookies not only embody these festive elements but also allow for creativity in the kitchen. These delightful cookies are perfect for decorating and personalizing, making them an ideal activity for families and friends to enjoy together.
Cinnamon, a classic spice associated with warmth and comfort, serves as the star ingredient in this recipe. Its rich, earthy flavor not only elevates the taste of the cookies but also fills your home with a nostalgic aroma that evokes cherished holiday memories. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, the scent of cinnamon will transport you to a winter wonderland.
Decorating with Almond Glaze
Aesthetics play a significant role in the joy of baking, and the elegant almond glaze on these Cinnamon Star Cookies takes them to the next level. The glossy finish not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a delightful sweetness that complements the spiced cookie base. Drizzling the glaze over the cookies allows for artistic expression; you can be as simple or as intricate as you desire, making each cookie a unique masterpiece.
Sliced almonds as a garnish provide a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cookies. Not only do they enhance the overall presentation, but they also introduce an additional layer of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. This combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests and make these cookies a standout treat at any gathering.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Cinnamon Star Cookies, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients. Baking is a science, and even a slight variation in measurements can affect the final product. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially for ingredients like flour and sugar. Additionally, when creaming the butter and sugar, take your time; this step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, which helps your cookies achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Another essential tip is to allow your dough to chill adequately. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the flavors develop and the cookies hold their shape during baking. If you live in a warmer climate, consider chilling the dough for longer or even placing it in the freezer for a brief period before cutting out the shapes. With these tips, your Cinnamon Star Cookies will turn out perfectly every time!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 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
Combine these ingredients to create your delicious cookies!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture until well combined.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cut Out Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on a wire rack.
Make the Almond Glaze
In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, almond milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Enjoy your festive Cinnamon Star Cookies!
Storage and Shelf Life
Once your Cinnamon Star Cookies are baked and glazed, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them even longer, consider freezing the cookies before glazing. This way, you can pull them out for last-minute gatherings or enjoy a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.
To freeze, lay the unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and add the almond glaze before serving. This method preserves their flavor and texture, ensuring that your festive spirit lasts well beyond the holiday season.
Pairing Suggestions
Cinnamon Star Cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair them with a warm cup of spiced chai or your favorite holiday-themed beverage for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich flavors of cinnamon and almond complement the spiced notes in these drinks, enhancing the overall experience.
For a more festive presentation, consider serving these cookies on a platter alongside other holiday treats, such as peppermint bark or gingerbread. The combination of flavors and textures will delight your guests and create a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed with friends or savored alone, these cookies are sure to make any occasion special.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic Cinnamon Star Cookies are delightful on their own, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. Consider adding finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough for an extra crunch. You can also swap out the almond extract in the glaze for other flavors like vanilla or hazelnut, giving the cookies a unique twist that reflects your personal preferences.
For a chocolatey variation, try incorporating cocoa powder into the cookie dough, transforming them into a delicious chocolate-cinnamon treat. Alternatively, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the glaze for a sweet and salty combination that will tantalize your taste buds. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make these cookies truly your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
→ What can I use instead of almond milk?
You can use any other plant-based milk or even regular milk if you prefer.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.
Cinnamon Star Cookies with Almond Glaze
Delight in the festive flavor of Cinnamon Star Cookies adorned with a sweet almond glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful treat any time of the year.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Home-Style Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 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 butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture until well combined.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 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. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on a wire rack.
In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, almond milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g