Moustokouloura (Wine Must Cookies)
Description
Moustokouloura are traditional Greek cookies that offer a delightful balance of crisp texture and warm spices. These wreath-shaped treats rely on petimezi, a thick grape must syrup, for their distinctively rich sweetness, though honey is a common substitute. Infused with aromatic cinnamon, cloves, and bright orange zest, they provide a festive aroma that fills the kitchen while baking. The dough is simple to handle, requiring just a short knead and a brief rest before shaping. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a thoughtful gift. They hold their crunch well when stored properly, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for special occasions.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375&# 194;°F (190ðC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
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In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
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In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, petimezi (or substitute), grated orange zest, and half of the orange juice until well combined.
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Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry ingredients.
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Mix together to form a dough, gradually adding the remaining orange juice as needed to bring the dough together.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and pliable, but not stiff.
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Cover the dough with a clean kitchen cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
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Break off pieces of dough, approximately 2 tablespoonfuls each.
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Roll each piece into a snake about 1/2-inch in diameter.
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Press the two ends of each snake together to form an oval wreath shape.
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Place the wreaths on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
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Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cookies are browned and crunchy, but not hard.
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Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 24
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 764.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.1g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 159.6g54%
- Dietary Fiber 5.7g23%
- Sugars 0.6g
- Protein 21.0g42%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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