Imagine biting into a cloud-like cookie that melts in your mouth, dusted with a snow-white layer of powdered sugar that transports you straight to a cozy Greek kitchen during the holidays. Kourapiedes are not just cookies; they're a festive tradition that captures the heart and soul of Greek Christmas celebrations. These delicate, buttery treats are so addictively delicious that you'll want to make them again and again, turning your home into a winter wonderland of sweet aromas and cherished memories.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup almond meal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add in the almond meal and continue mixing until well combined. The almond meal will add a delightful nutty flavor and texture to the cookies.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed or with a spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The walnuts will provide a nice crunch and enhance the flavor.
- Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Once all the dough is shaped and placed on the baking sheet, gently flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies have cooled, dust them generously with additional powdered sugar. This will give them a beautiful finish and add a touch of sweetness.
- Serve the Kourapiedes with a cup of tea or coffee, or store them in an airtight container to enjoy later. These cookies are perfect for sharing during the festive season!
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough instead of delightfully crumbly.
- Use a light hand when shaping the cookies - they should be delicate and uniform in size.
- Let the cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent the sugar from melting.
- For an extra festive touch, you can add a touch of orange zest to the dough for a traditional Greek flavor twist.
- Store these cookies in an airtight container, and they'll stay fresh for up to a week - if they last that long!
- For the most authentic experience, serve these alongside a strong Greek coffee or sweet dessert wine.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
