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Traditional Greek Butter Almond Cookies (Kourabiedes)

Kourabiedes are a beloved Greek festive treat, especially popular during celebrations such as Christmas and weddings. Originating from the region of Elassona, these buttery cookies are made with rich goat's milk butter and generously studded with almonds, creating a delightful texture reminiscent of marzipan. The cookies are traditionally dusted with powdered sugar and infused with a hint of vanilla, making them a luxurious addition to any dessert table. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a sweet and nutty flavor that evokes the warmth of Greek hospitality and festive gatherings. Share them with friends and family, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee for a truly indulgent experience.

Dessert | Snack | Greek | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegetarian | Cookie | Baking Sheet | Food Processor | Mixing Bowl | Oven | Whisk | Wire Rack | Almond | Butter | Egg | Baking | Chopping | Kneading | Rolling | Christmas | Festive
Time to complete

Prep

30min

Cook

25min

Wait

10min

Total

1h 5min

Ingredients (Makes 20 cookies)

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups (480 g) goat's milk butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 6 cups (720 g) all-purpose flour
  • 750 g whole almonds, blanched

For Dusting

  • approximately 1 kg powdered sugar

For Flavor

  • 6 packets of vanilla sugar
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 25
  • Protein: 6
  • Carbohydrates: 55
  • Fiber: 2
Directions

Prepare the Dough

  • 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the goat's milk butter. Mix by hand or with a whisk until any lumps are dissolved.

Combine Ingredients

  • 2. Add the granulated sugar and blend into the butter until smooth, using the warmth of your hands to help dissolve the sugar.

Incorporate Eggs

  • 3. Add the egg yolks and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Add Flour

  • 4. Gradually incorporate 4 cups of flour, kneading until a soft, workable dough forms. If necessary, add the remaining 2 cups of flour.

Prepare the Almonds

  • 5. Coarsely chop the almonds using a food processor, pulsing in short bursts until roughly ground.

Shape the Cookies

  • 6. Take walnut-sized portions of the dough, roll them in the chopped almonds, and shape them into ovals.

Bake the Cookies

  • 7. Arrange the cookies on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Cool and Dust

  • 8. Allow the cookies to cool completely on wire racks.

Finish with Sugar

  • 9. On a large piece of aluminum foil topped with parchment paper, combine the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar. Dip each cookie in the sugar mixture, ensuring they are fully coated, then place on a serving platter.
Cookix's Secrets

Almond Options

  • Use blanched almonds for a smoother texture or roasted almonds for added flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.

Healthier Twist

  • Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more wholesome option.

Nut Variations

  • Try substituting almonds with walnuts or pistachios for a different flavor profile.

Temperature Matters

  • Ensure the goat's milk butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.