Introduction
As the holiday season draws near, the air fills with delicious scents that awaken our festive spirit. These Delightful Cinnamon Star Cookies encapsulate that joyful essence, with their warm spices and delightful sweetness. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea, these cookies are not just treats; they’re little pieces of holiday cheer. Let’s dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe that will surely bring smiles to everyone around your table!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for those delicious cookies.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This fragrant mixture will infuse your cookies with delightful flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamy butter mixture, blending until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gradually introduce the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness, making sure it’s even for uniform baking.
- Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out your cookies and transfer them carefully to the prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect; each one will have its own unique charm!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack—this step ensures they’ll hold their shape and texture.
- Finally, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving, adding a touch of sweetness and festive flair!
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling the cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk! You can also experiment with different spices or citrus zest in the dough for a unique twist. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
Cooking Techniques
Rolling out cookie dough can be tricky, so here’s a tip: place another piece of parchment on top of the dough while rolling it out. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Additionally, when cutting out shapes, flouring your cookie cutter will help the dough release easily!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting.
What can I do if I don’t have a star-shaped cookie cutter?
No worries! You can use any cookie cutter shape you have on hand, or even cut the cookies into squares or circles with a knife.
Conclusion
These Delightful Cinnamon Star Cookies are more than just a festive treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and a way to create cozy memories with loved ones. Whether enjoyed at a holiday gathering or on a quiet afternoon, each bite promises a burst of warmth and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the joy of baking fill your home. Happy baking!