If you haven’t tried Greek kourabiedes /kourambiethes (Christmas Greek butter cookies) before, then you are certainly missing out! Deliciously buttery with a crunchy bite and rich almond (or pistachio if you are feeling adventurous) and butter flavour. This super easy kourabiedes recipe (kourambiethes) will certainly set you on a festive mood!
I’ve told you before that I’m part Greek, so these cookies were a huge part of the holidays for me growing up. Greek butter cookies, or kourabiedes, are very traditional for Christmas, Greek Easter, and baptisms, and are normally baked with a whole clove inside.
You can also make the traditional kourabiedes shape by rolling pieces of dough in your palms to form walnut sized balls. Press the center slightly with your index finger to form an indentation and if desired, place a clove in the center of each cookie. Chill the cookies in the refrigerator or freezer until firm. Preheat the oven to 350 °F, 180°C.
Instead of vanilla, prepare cookie dough with almond or orange extract, or use brandy or Metaxa (a Greek brandy). For Middle Eastern flair, place orange- or rose-flower water in a food-safe spray bottle; mist warm cookies with water. Cool, then dust with confectioners’ sugar. Can you make Kourabides with nuts?