15 Greek Christmas Cookie Recipes (Kourabiedes & More)

Kourabiedes: Traditional Greek Almond Cookies

Kourabiedes are delightful traditional Greek almond cookies that are often enjoyed during the holiday season, particularly at Christmas. These buttery, crumbly cookies are infused with the warm flavors of almonds and often coated in powdered sugar, making them a perfect treat for celebrations, offering a taste of Greek culture and festive spirit.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until it’s creamy and smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Sugar and Extracts: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the creamed butter, continuing to mix until fully combined. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts until well incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
5. Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should come together but still be a bit crumbly.
6. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is ready, use your hands to form small balls (about the size of a tablespoon) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
8. Cool and Dust: After removing from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they are still warm, generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once completely cooled, serve your Kourabiedes, and enjoy these deliciously crumbly traditional Greek almond cookies during your festive gatherings!

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Melomakarona: Honey-Drenched Spice Cookies

Melomakarona are a beloved Greek Christmas dessert, known for their rich flavors and delightful texture. These honey-drenched spice cookies are made with a fragrant blend of spices and are soaked in a sweet syrup, offering a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness. Melomakarona are often studded with chopped walnuts, making them a festive treat enjoyed by many during the holiday season.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Mix well and set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. Then, gradually mix in the fresh orange juice until fully incorporated.
3. Combine Mixtures: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but cohesive.
4. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is mixed, take small portions of the dough and shape them into oval or round cookies, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
6. Prepare the Syrup: While the cookies are baking, prepare the syrup by combining honey and water in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Soak the Cookies: Once the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and immediately dip each cookie into the warm syrup, allowing them to soak for about 10 seconds. Make sure to coat them evenly.
8. Cool and Garnish: After soaking, place the cookies on a wire rack to cool. While they are still warm, sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts for garnish.
9. Serve: Once cooled, serve the melomakarona and enjoy this sweet, spiced treat with family and friends during the holiday festivities.

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Diples: Crispy Fried Dough Cookies

Diples are traditional Greek Christmas cookies that are crispy and delicate, made from a simple dough that is rolled thin and then fried until golden. These sweet treats are often drizzled with honey syrup and can be garnished with ground nuts, making them a festive delight for the holiday season. Their light, crispy texture and sweet flavor make them a favorite among both young and old alike.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, olive oil, white wine, and salt. Mix the ingredients together until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is elastic and smooth.
2. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
3. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions. Take one portion at a time and roll it out as thinly as possible on a floured surface using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch. If the dough sticks, dust with a little more flour.
4. Cut the Dough: Once the dough is rolled out, cut it into strips or rectangles of about 3-4 inches wide and 6-8 inches long. You can also cut them into shapes like triangles for a different presentation.
5. Fry the Diples: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place one piece of the dough into the hot oil and fry until it is golden brown and crispy, about 30 seconds on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat this step with the remaining strips of dough.
6. Prepare the Honey Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine honey and water. Warm over low heat until just heated through, stirring until well mixed. Do not bring to a boil.
7. Dip the Fried Cookies: Once all the diples are fried and crispy, dip each one briefly into the warm honey syrup, ensuring they are coated but not soaked. Allow any excess syrup to drip off before transferring to a serving plate.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle ground walnuts or almonds over the drizzled diples for added texture and flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy this delightful festive treat.

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Vasilopita: New Year’s Cake With Hidden Coin

Vasilopita is a traditional Greek cake served on New Year’s Day to celebrate St. Basil’s Day. This sweet, fluffy cake is not only delicious but is also adorned with a hidden coin, symbolizing good fortune for the year ahead. It’s a beautiful way to bring families together around the start of a new year, as the cake is cut into slices that are shared among family members, with a blessing for health and prosperity.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan (approximately 9 inches) with butter and flour or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, making sure to mix well after each addition. This will help incorporate air into the batter for a fluffy texture.
4. Incorporate the Milk and Vanilla: Pour in the milk and add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and orange zest.
6. Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
7. Add the Coin: Before transferring the batter, wrap the coin in aluminum foil and carefully insert it into the batter to guarantee it stays hidden.
8. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Bless the Cake: Once cooled, dust the top of the Vasilopita with powdered sugar. To serve, cut the cake into slices, ensuring each person receives a slice, and enjoy with blessings for the new year!

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Koulourakia: Sweet Greek Butter Cookies

Koulourakia are traditional Greek butter cookies that are often enjoyed during the Easter season, although they can be savored year-round. These delightful cookies are known for their crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior, often flavored with vanilla and adorned with sesame seeds or egg wash. Koulourakia are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, making them a favorite treat among family and friends during festive gatherings.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly. Gradually add the beaten eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Reserve a small amount of beaten egg for brushing the cookies later.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and egg mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, but be careful not to overwork it.
6. Shape the Cookies: Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into ropes about 5-6 inches long. Twist the ropes into a figure-eight shape or braid them, and place the formed cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. Prepare for Baking: Brush the tops of the cookies with the reserved beaten egg and sprinkle lightly with sesame seeds.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy the delightful Koulourakia with your favorite beverage or share them with loved ones during festive occasions!

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Takos: Crunchy Walnut Cookies

Takos are delicious crunchy walnut cookies that are commonly enjoyed in Greece, especially during the festive season. These cookies are characterized by their rich flavor, thanks to the finely chopped walnuts and warm spices, and they have a delightful crunch that makes them irresistible. They are often coated in a sweet syrup or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely chopped walnuts, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until a firm dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water.
5. Shape the Cookies: Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them, as they will spread a bit while baking.
6. Flatten the Cookies: Lightly press down on each ball using the palm of your hand to flatten them slightly.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies have cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Takos with a cup of coffee or tea, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion!

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Finikia: Greek Walnut Honey Cookies

Finikia are traditional Greek cookies that bring together the rich flavors of walnuts and honey, making them a delightful treat during the festive season. These soft, aromatic cookies are infused with spices and generously glazed with honey syrup, giving them a sweet and sticky finish that is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, finely chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Make sure not to overmix.
5. Shape the Cookies: Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each.
6. Flatten the Cookies: Using your palm, gently press each ball down slightly to flatten them.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden on the edges.
8. Prepare the Honey Glaze: While the cookies are baking, prepare the honey syrup by combining the honey and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently over low heat, stirring until the ingredients are well integrated.
9. Glaze the Cookies: Once cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes on the tray. Then, while still warm, dip each cookie into the honey syrup, ensuring they are well coated.
10. Garnish: Place the glazed cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. While they are still sticky, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for garnish.

Enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors of Finikia, perfect for sharing during the holidays or as a special treat any time of year!

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Stafidota: Raisin Cookies With Cinnamon

Stafidota are delightful Greek raisin cookies that are flavored with aromatic cinnamon, making them a wonderful sweet treat, perfect for the holiday season or any time of the year. These cookies are soft and chewy, with the sweetness of raisins perfectly balanced by warm spices, making them irresistible to both children and adults alike.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and granulated sugar. Whisk together until the mixture is uniform.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer or a wooden spoon until it becomes light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk to the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Take care not to overmix. Gently fold in the raisins and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet, placing the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
6. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set.
7. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve: Enjoy your Stafidota cookies as a delicious snack or dessert, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

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Bougatsa: Sweet Custard Pastry

Bougatsa is a delicious Greek pastry that is typically filled with a sweet custard and wrapped in layers of flaky phyllo dough. This delectable dessert is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack, and it’s known for its creamy filling and crispy exterior. Bougatsa can be sprinkled with powdered sugar or cinnamon on top before serving, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with some of the melted butter.
2. Prepare the Custard Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the whole milk while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat.
3. Incorporate Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract. Slowly add about half a cup of the hot milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and avoid curdling. Once combined, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, and return to low heat. Stir continuously until the custard thickens further. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bougatsa: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the greased baking dish, brushing it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering several sheets (about 5-6 sheets) while buttering each layer. Pour the custard filling evenly over the phyllo layers.
5. Top with Phyllo: Cover the custard filling with more layers of phyllo dough, similar to the first step. Again, brush each sheet lightly with melted butter as you layer them. Aim for about 5-6 layers on top.
6. Bake the Bougatsa: Once fully assembled, use a sharp knife to score the top layers of phyllo in rectangles to help with serving later. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bougatsa from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cooled slightly, dust the top generously with powdered sugar and ground cinnamon if desired. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Bougatsa as a delightful sweet treat during the festive season or at any special gathering!

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Amigdalota: Almond Flour Cookies

Amigdalota are traditional Greek almond cookies that are both delicious and gluten-free. Made primarily from almond flour, they are fragrant and slightly chewy, with a delightful sweetness from the sugar and a hint of lemon zest. These cookies are often enjoyed during the holiday season and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the almond flour and granulated sugar. Mix well to guarantee that the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the almond flour.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy but not stiff. Add the lemon zest and almond extract to the egg whites and gently mix until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg white mixture into the almond flour mixture. Stir gently using a spatula until the dough is uniform. It should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.
5. Shape the Cookies: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
6. Add Toppings: If desired, press a few sliced almonds into the top of each cookie for decoration.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After the cookies have cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Amigdalota cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!

Kataifi: Shredded Phyllo Pastry Cookies

Kataifi are exquisite Greek cookies made from shredded phyllo pastry, often filled with a delicious combination of nuts and sweetened with a rich syrup. These delightful treats are perfect for festive occasions and bring a unique texture and flavor to your holiday dessert table. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Kataifi is bound to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking pan or dish.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, chopped almonds, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
4. Prepare the Kataifi: Take the shredded phyllo dough and gently pull it apart to separate the strands. In a large bowl, drizzle the melted butter over the kataifi, and using your hands, mix until the dough is evenly coated with butter.
5. Assemble the Cookies: Spread half of the kataifi mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking pan. Press it down gently to create a flat layer. Next, evenly distribute the nut mixture over the kataifi. Then, cover the fillings with the remaining kataifi, spreading it evenly on top and pressing down lightly.
6. Bake the Kataifi: Place the baking pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
7. Syrup Application: Once baked, remove the kataifi from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot pastry. Ascertain that all areas are well soaked, allowing it to absorb the syrup.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the kataifi cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting it into diamond or square shapes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Kataifi cookies as a delightful treat during the holiday season or any special occasion!

Paga: Greek Honey Cinnamon Cookies

Paga are traditional Greek cookies known for their delightful combination of honey and cinnamon, making them a perfectly aromatic treat for the holiday season. These small, round cookies are often enjoyed with Greek coffee or tea, offering a warm sweetness that captivates both young and old alike. They are not only easy to make but also bring a taste of Greece to your festive gatherings.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and blend until well incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. If you’re using walnuts, fold them in at this stage for added texture.
6. Form the Cookies: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place these balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart as they will spread while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the bottom.
8. Honey Coating: While the cookies are baking, heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes runny. This will make it easier to coat the cookies.
9. Coat the Cookies: Once the cookies are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, dip each cookie in the warm honey for a few seconds, ensuring they are well-coated.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After dipping in honey, place the cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Paga as a sweet addition to your Christmas festivities!

Kourabiedes With Variations: Different Flavors

Kourabiedes are traditional Greek almond shortbread cookies often enjoyed during festive occasions, particularly around Christmas. These cookies are known for their rich buttery flavor, crumbly texture, and generous dusting of powdered sugar, giving them a delightful sweetness. Kourabiedes come in various flavors, allowing bakers to experiment with additions like chocolate, vanilla, and even citrus zest.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Toast the Almonds: If using whole almonds, spread them evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. If you are using ground cinnamon or citrus zest, add them to the dry ingredients as well.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter until creamy and pale. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Incorporate Flavors: Add the vanilla extract and chopped or whole almonds to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring to combine evenly.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, blending on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. For a traditional touch, you can also shape them into crescent moons or flatten them slightly.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden but the centers remain pale.
9. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before dusting generously with powdered sugar.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cookies are cooled and dusted, they are ready to be served. These delicious Kourabiedes are perfect for holiday gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea!

Giouvetsi: Greek Christmas Cookie Bars

Giouvetsi is a delightful Greek Christmas cookie bar that combines a buttery, shortbread-like base with a rich, spiced filling. Often topped with a wonderful layer of powdered sugar, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of flavors and textures makes Giouvetsi a beloved dessert in Greek cuisine.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in 1 egg and mix until combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Form the Base: Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer for the base. Verify the layer is smooth and flat.
5. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 2 eggs. Add the vanilla extract and chopped almonds, mixing until well combined. Pour this filling mixture over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Add the Topping: Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the filling, spreading it out to cover as much as possible. It’s okay if some almond filling peeks through.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set.
8. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the Giouvetsi to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use a knife to cut it into squares or bars. Once completely cooled, dust with powdered sugar on top before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Giouvetsi as a festive treat during the holiday season!

Lemon-Scented Greek Christmas Cookies

Lemon-Scented Greek Christmas Cookies, known as “Kourabiedes,” are traditional Greek treats that perfectly blend the zesty flavor of lemon with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are often dusted with a generous layer of powdered sugar, making them a festive and delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their bright, citrus flavor brings a revitalizing note to the holiday season.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and egg mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
5. Incorporate Almonds: Fold the slivered almonds into the dough gently using a spatula or wooden spoon.
6. Shape Cookies: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain tender.
8. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Once slightly cooled, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon-Scented Greek Christmas Cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season!