Moustokouloura

Moustokouloura are traditional Greek holiday cookies shaped like small wreaths. These crisp, crunchy treats rely on the warm aromatics of cinnamon and cloves, balanced by bright orange zest and juice. The dough is uniquely sweetened with petimezi (Greek grape must syrup), which adds a deep, molasses-like richness, though honey or vino cotto work well as substitutes. The texture is delightfully brittle and fragrant, making them perfect for pairing with strong coffee or tea during the festive season. Simple to mix and bake, these cookies bring authentic Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen table.

Cooking Method: Baking

Cuisine: Greek

Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 24

Calories: 764.4

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

Moustokouloura are traditional Greek holiday cookies shaped like small wreaths. These crisp, crunchy treats rely on the warm aromatics of cinnamon and cloves, balanced by bright orange zest and juice. The dough is uniquely sweetened with petimezi (Greek grape must syrup), which adds a deep, molasses-like richness, though honey or vino cotto work well as substitutes. The texture is delightfully brittle and fragrant, making them perfect for pairing with strong coffee or tea during the festive season. Simple to mix and bake, these cookies bring authentic Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen table.

Ingredients

3 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
2 tsp Baking soda
1 tbsp Freshly ground cinnamon
1 tbsp Freshly ground cloves
1/4 cup Mild olive oil
2 tbsp Honey
1/2 cup Petimezi (Greek wine must syrup) OR Italian vino cotto OR Honey
1 orange (grated zest)
1 cup Orange juice
Flour for kneading

Directions

1
Preheat the oven to 375&# 194;Â°F (190ÃÂ°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
2
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.
3
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, petimezi (or substitute), grated orange zest, and half of the orange juice.
4
Pour the wet mixture into the well in the flour. Mix together to form a dough, adding the remaining orange juice gradually as needed to bring the dough together.
5
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, but not stiff.
6
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
7
Break off pieces of dough, about 2 tablespoonfuls each. Roll each piece into a snake approximately 1/2-inch in diameter.
8
Press the two ends of each snake together to form an oval wreath. Place the wreaths on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
9
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are browned and crunchy but not hard.
10
Allow the moustokouloura 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.

Note

Petimezi is a traditional Greek grape must syrup that adds a distinct depth of flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with Italian vino cotto, molasses, or extra honey.

The dough should be smooth but not stiff. If it feels too dry, add orange juice one teaspoon at a time. If too sticky, add a little more flour.

These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess.

For a softer texture, reduce the baking time slightly. For a crunchier cookie, bake until the edges are a deep golden brown.

Keywords: greek, cookies, moustokouloura, dessert, vegan, cinnamon, cloves, orange, petimezi, grape must, holiday, crispy, baking, wreath, traditional, sweet

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/moustokouloura/