Greek Cookies (Kouradiedes)

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Servings: 75 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Light, crumbly almond cookies dusted with powdered sugar for a classic Greek holiday treat.
Greek Cookies (Kouradiedes recipe image
Greek Cookies (Kouradiedes recipe image
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Greek Cookies (Kouradiedes)

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 75 Calories: 124.3

Description

Kouradiedes are traditional Greek cookies known for their delicate, crumbly texture and subtle almond flavor. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are made with simple ingredients: butter, powdered sugar, flour, vanilla, and a splash of brandy. The dough is shaped into small rounds or crescents, baked until just set, and then generously coated in powdered sugar while still warm. This technique creates a snowy, sweet exterior that contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery interior. Perfect for Christmas, Easter, or any festive gathering, these cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. They are easy to prepare and store well, making them an ideal homemade gift or party platter addition.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  2. Finely chop the blanched almonds or walnuts.
  3. In a large bowl, whip the softened butter until it is light and fluffy.
  4. Slowly add the 3/4 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and brandy to the butter, mixing until combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
  6. Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Take small teaspoon-sized amounts of dough and shape them into balls, ovals, or crescents.
  8. Place the shaped cookies on ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between them as they will not spread.
  9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and pale golden. Do not let them brown.
  10. While the cookies are still warm, transfer them to a plate with sifted powdered sugar.
  11. Roll the warm cookies in the sugar to coat them completely.
  12. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 75

Amount Per Serving
Calories 124.3kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.6g11%
Saturated Fat 3.2g16%
Cholesterol 13.0mg5%
Sodium 39.2mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 14.1g5%
Dietary Fiber 0.8g4%
Sugars 2.6g
Protein 2.2g5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Use extra powdered sugar (approximately 4 cups) for dusting the finished cookies. Sift the sugar first to avoid lumps.

These cookies are best when eaten within a few days, as they can become stale. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

You can substitute walnuts for almonds if preferred, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

Brandy adds a traditional flavor, but you can omit it or use orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.

Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, but not so soft that it is greasy.

The cookies should be very pale when baked. If they start to brown, remove them from the oven immediately.

Keywords: greek, cookies, kouradiedes, almond, powdered sugar, brandy, butter, holiday, christmas, christmas cookies, dessert, easy baking, shortbread, traditional, mediterranean, snack, party food, vanilla, crumbly, sweet
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