Stars (Spitzbuben)
Delightful star-shaped cookies with almond flavor, filled with jam and rolled in sugar, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, ground almonds, sugar, flour, and vanilla together to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough thinly and cut into star shapes using a star cookie cutter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until light brown, approximately 10 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool completely.
- Spread a little jam on the flat side of one star and sandwich with another star.
- Roll the assembled sandwich cookies in granulated sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as hazelnuts, if you prefer. Ensure your dough is rolled out evenly to achieve uniform cookies. If you want a hint of warmth, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. For a festive twist, try using flavored jam like raspberry or apricot.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful star cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or tea parties. Serve them alongside a warm beverage such as spiced chai or coffee. For a creative touch, consider pairing them with a light spread like Lemon Sandwich Spread for a contrasting flavor. They also make lovely gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the assembled star cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you want to freeze them, do so before adding the jam and sugar coating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stars (Spitzbuben) contains roughly 829 calories, with 5g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 553mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to choose a blend that works well for baking. You may need to adjust the dough's consistency, so add a little more flour if it's too sticky. Experimenting with gluten-free options can yield delicious results.
What type of jam works best for these cookies?
Traditional choices include raspberry or apricot jam, but feel free to use your favorite flavor. Strawberry, blackberry, or even citrus jams can add a unique twist. Just ensure the jam is thick enough to hold the cookies together without leaking.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading while baking?
To prevent spreading, ensure your dough is chilled before rolling it out. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to a more oily texture, causing the cookies to spread during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).