Immerse yourself in the sweet allure of “Kourampiedes”, a traditional Greek cookie that is as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye. These buttery, almond-laden cookies dusted with snowy icing sugar are a staple in Greek households during festive seasons. But the joy of Kourampiedes extends beyond their taste; it’s about the tradition, the memories, and the warmth they bring to every home.
Kourampiedes Recipe
Kourampiedes recipe
Equipment
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1500 gr. Flour
- 1500 gr. Castor sugar
- 200 gr. Butter from Cows Milk
- 1.50 spoon baking powder
- 1.50 teaspoon salt
- 1.50 spoon Vanilla
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- - Mastic
- - rosewater
Instructions
- * Mix the flour, vanilla, salt, baking powder and sift.
- * Beat well in mixer the butter and sugar and some gum to get the mix or white and swell.
- * Add the egg yolks (one at a time) while continuing to beat.
- * Then add little by little and mix with flour and beat until dough is fluffy.
- * Shape the mixture into the buns projects we place them on a baking sheet.
- * They bake in the oven at 180 degrees for half an hour.
- * When you get pink color, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle with plenty of rose water and dip in powdered sugar.
Video
Cooking Tips
Perfecting Your Kourampiedes
The key to perfect Kourampiedes lies in a few simple steps. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully every time:
- Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. The butter should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Almonds: Toast the almonds before adding them to the dough. This enhances their flavor and gives the cookies a delightful crunch.
- Icing Sugar: Be generous with the icing sugar coating. It not only adds sweetness but also gives Kourampiedes their signature snowy appearance.
Baking Tips
Baking these cookies to perfection requires some attention to detail:
- Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven. A properly heated oven ensures the cookies bake evenly.
- Baking Time: Don’t overbake the cookies. They should be lightly golden, not brown.
- Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely before coating them with icing sugar. If they’re too warm, the sugar will melt.
Serving Suggestions
Kourampiedes are traditionally served during Christmas and other celebrations. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Festive Treat: Serve Kourampiedes as part of your holiday dessert spread. They pair wonderfully with other Greek sweets like Baklava and Melomakarona.
- Gift Giving: Pack these cookies in a beautiful box or jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Tea Time: Enjoy Kourampiedes with a cup of Greek coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of nut in the recipe? Yes, you can substitute almonds with walnuts or hazelnuts. However, the flavor will be slightly different.
- Can I make Kourampiedes without alcohol? Absolutely! You can omit the traditional splash of brandy or ouzo without significantly affecting the taste.
- How do I store Kourampiedes? Store Kourampiedes in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to 2 weeks.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the cookies ahead of time. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- What’s the best way to reheat these cookies? Kourampiedes are best enjoyed at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them.
The Kourampiedes recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a gateway to Greek culture and traditions. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe offers a chance to create something truly special. Remember, baking is a form of expression, and every batch of cookies tells a story. So, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this recipe. After all, the joy of baking comes from the process as much as the end result. Happy baking!
