Every family has its own unique holiday traditions, those once-a-year activities that give us a sense of identity and belonging as we celebrate this special time of year.
Often (but certainly not always) these traditions revolve around food.
My favourite childhood holiday treat was chocolate peanut butter balls. My mom can still be counted on to have a batch of these on hand during the holidays. She was also famous for her butter tarts, made entirely from scratch including the crusts.
As an adult, I tended to adopt my mom’s recipes. My hand-written recipe cards are now faded, worn and splattered.
This year though, I tried a couple of new recipes, and I’ve decided that one in particular will become a new tradition for our family.
Cinnamon Stars, also known as “Zimtsterne” cookies, are a traditional German favourite.
If you’ve ever been to a Christmas Market in Europe (possibly while on a river cruise), you will have certainly seen these cookies.
Maybe you’ve even tasted them, or baked them yourself.
They are made out of ground nuts (almonds or hazelnuts) and lots of cinnamon, and are frosted before you put them in the oven.
Here is the recipe I used: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/10210/cinnamon-stars/
(Tip: I used ‘almond flour’ from Costco and it worked great).
Much to my surprise the cookies turned out exactly as shown in the photo! I love the nutty taste combined with cinnamon.
If you try making these cookies, imagine that you’re eating them still warm from the oven, while you’re wandering through a Christmas Market and sipping on a glass of mulled wine.
I have never visited a Christmas Market in Europe, but I sure would love to experience a Christmas Market River Cruise one day.
Maybe next year!
Bob and I wish you a wonderful Christmas, with lots of yummy treats and the company of friends and family to enjoy them with.
All the best,
Sue Bradley
Sue Bradley
