Traditional Greek Butter Almond Kourabiedes Recipe
Traditional Greek Butter Almond Kourabiedes are delicate, buttery cookies coated generously with powdered sugar. These festive treats combine toasted almonds and subtle hints of brandy or orange juice, making them a beloved classic in Greek celebrations and perfect for holidays or special occasions.
- Author: Douaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Cookie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tbsp brandy or orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup finely chopped toasted almonds
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
- Extra powdered sugar for coating
- Whip Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and airy. This step ensures a tender crumb in the cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large egg yolk, brandy or orange juice, and vanilla extract thoroughly until well combined, enhancing the cookie’s flavor and moisture.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture along with the finely chopped toasted almonds, mixing until a smooth dough forms without overworking.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into small balls or delicate crescent shapes and arrange them evenly spaced on an ungreased baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden but not browned. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, dust them again to achieve a thick, snow-like coating typical of traditional Kourabiedes.
Notes
- For the best flavor, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant before chopping.
- You can substitute brandy with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version without sacrificing aroma.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier whipping and better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and the powdered sugar coating.
- Kourabiedes taste even better after resting for a day, allowing flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Kourabiedes, Greek Butter Cookies, Almond Cookies, Festive Dessert, Powdered Sugar Cookies, Traditional Greek Recipe