Kourambiedes With Powdered Sugar
Kourambiedes are a classic Greek Christmas cookie that is made with a combination of butter, powdered sugar, and ground almonds. The cookies are then rolled in powdered sugar and baked until golden brown. The end result is a delicate and melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
Kourambiedes have a long and storied history in Greece. The first known recipe for the cookies dates back to the 16th century, and the cookies have been a staple of Greek Christmas celebrations ever since. The name kourambiedes comes from the Greek word for almond, *κουραμπιά* (kourampi). The cookies are traditionally made with ground almonds, but other nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, can also be used.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 20
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Finely ground walnuts
- All-purpose flour
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Whisk the baking powder and salt in a small bowl and add to the butter mixture.
- Add the ground walnuts and beat until combined.
- Stir in the flour and knead until dough is formed.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Roll dough into small balls and arrange on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Why It Works
- The combination of butter, powdered sugar, and ground almonds creates a dough that is both tender and flavorful.
- Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar before baking helps to create a delicate and crispy crust.
- Baking the cookies at a low temperature ensures that they are cooked through without becoming overcooked.