Kourabiedes(Greek Butter Cookies With Confectioners Sugar)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 65 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Kourabiedes are traditional Greek butter cookies, rich with butter and almonds, dusted with confectioners sugar, perfect for holidays or festive occasions, appealing to those with a sweet tooth.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. unsalted butter
  • 1/2 c. confectioners sugar
  • 1/4 c. brandy
  • 1 Tbsp. baking soda
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 c. chopped unsalted almonds
  • 2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
  • 5 c. flour

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking soda.
  2. In another large bowl, beat the butter until fluffy.
  3. Add the confectioners sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and brandy (or orange juice) to the butter and mix well.
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing constantly until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough until smooth.
  6. Cut the dough into desired shapes.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until light brown.
  8. Let the cookies cool completely.
  9. Dust the cooled cookies generously with confectioners sugar until well coated.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute chopped almonds with finely chopped walnuts or omit them altogether. You can also replace brandy with orange juice for a lighter flavor. Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as oven temperatures may vary, and they can go from light brown to overbaked quickly.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies make a delightful accompaniment to tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a Mediterranean recipes platter or with a refreshing Feta Pasta Salad. Dusting them with additional confectioners sugar just before serving enhances their presentation and sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Kourabiedes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them. If you want to enjoy them warm, briefly reheat in a low oven for a few minutes, ensuring they don't lose their delicate nature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Kourabiedes(Greek Butter Cookies With Confectioners Sugar) contains roughly 2944 calories, with 19g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 278g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (232% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1287mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).

2944 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.4g 39% DV
Total Fat 277.9g 100% DV
Carbs 42.7g 16% DV
Fiber 7.9g 28% DV
Sugar 20.9g 42% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1286.6mg 56% DV
Potassium 715.6mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2088.2mcg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 269.8mg 21% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

While unsalted butter is preferred for better control over the sweetness and saltiness of the cookies, you can use salted butter. Just reduce any additional salt in the recipe, if applicable.

What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is crumbly and not coming together, try adding a tablespoon of cold water or an extra egg yolk. This will help bind the ingredients and create a smoother dough.

Can I freeze Kourabiedes for later use?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Once they are completely cooled and dusted with sugar, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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