Kourambiethes(Greek Christmas Cookies)
Delightful Greek Christmas cookies with toasted walnuts and a hint of ouzo, perfect for festive gatherings and those who enjoy buttery, nutty treats with aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped walnuts, softened butter, powdered sugar, egg yolk, ouzo (or brandy), and almond extract in a food processor.
- Process until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough.
- Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the dough into small balls or crescent shapes.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, you can replace the walnuts with finely chopped almonds or sunflower seeds. Ensure the butter is truly softened for easier blending. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to help maintain the cookie's form while baking. You might also consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor, which pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them alongside a warm cup of Greek coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday dessert platters, especially when paired with other sweets like "Karithopita" - Walnut Cake. Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kourambiethes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply let them thaw at room temperature and dust with more powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kourambiethes(Greek Christmas Cookies) contains roughly 1351 calories, with 12g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D.
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 margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used as a substitute, it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies. Butter provides a richer taste and helps achieve the desired crumbly texture. If you must use margarine, choose a high-quality product for the best results.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Kourambiethes gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount to help with texture. The cookies may have a slightly different texture but should still be delicious.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to shape, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will help firm it up. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little more flour onto your work surface and your hands to make shaping easier.
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).