Toasted Almond Kourabiedes
Delight in these traditional Greek almond cookies, known as Kourabiedes, that are perfect for any festive occasion or a cozy family gathering. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats are elevated by the nutty flavor of toasted almonds, making them irresistible. Coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar, these cookies are not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Whether served with coffee or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal, they are sure to charm your guests and family alike. Enjoy the rich heritage of Greek cuisine with each delicious bite!
30
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground almonds
1/2 cup (Toast in the oven until lightly browned)
Sweet butter or margarine
1 cup (Softened)
Powdered sugar
2 tablespoons (For mixing into the dough)
Egg yolk
1
Brandy or vanilla extract
1 tablespoon or 1/2 teaspoon
All-purpose flour
2 cups
Baking powder
1/2 teaspoon
Powdered sugar
1 1/2 - 2 cups (For coating)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the ground almonds in a shallow pan and toast for about 6 to 8 minutes until they are lightly browned and aromatic. Allow them to cool.
2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter or margarine until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add in 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
3
Add the egg yolk and the brandy or vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth. Stir in the toasted ground almonds until evenly incorporated.
4
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually sift this mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined and a soft dough forms.
5
Take walnut-sized pieces of the dough and roll them into crescent shapes. Place them on ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
6
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until they are very lightly browned. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary.
7
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes. Prepare a surface by laying out wax paper, then sift about half of the 1 1/2 to 2 cups of powdered sugar over it.
8
Transfer the warm cookies to the powdered sugar-dusted wax paper, then sift the remaining sugar over the tops to thoroughly coat them. Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Toasted Almond Kourabiedes?
They are traditional Greek almond cookies known for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a generous coating of powdered sugar.
How many servings does this recipe produce?
This recipe makes approximately 30 servings.
What temperature should the oven be for toasting the almonds?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) to toast the ground almonds.
How long should the ground almonds be toasted?
Toast the ground almonds for about 6 to 8 minutes until they are lightly browned and aromatic.
What type of butter is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of softened sweet butter or margarine.
How much powdered sugar is added directly into the cookie dough?
Two tablespoons of powdered sugar are mixed into the dough.
What liquid flavorings can be used in Kourabiedes?
You can use either 1 tablespoon of brandy or 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
How many egg yolks are needed?
The recipe requires one egg yolk.
What kind of flour is used in these cookies?
Two cups of all-purpose flour are used to make the dough.
Should the flour be sifted?
Yes, the flour and baking powder mixture should be gradually sifted into the butter mixture.
How do you shape the Kourabiedes?
Take walnut-sized pieces of dough and roll them into crescent shapes.
Do the baking sheets need to be greased?
No, the cookies should be placed on ungreased baking sheets.
How much space should be left between the cookies on the pan?
Leave about 1 inch of space between each crescent-shaped cookie.
What is the baking temperature for the cookies?
The cookies should be baked at 325°F (163°C).
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake the cookies for approximately 30 minutes or until they are very lightly browned.
How long should the cookies cool before coating them in sugar?
Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven.
How much powdered sugar is required for the final coating?
You will need between 1 1/2 to 2 cups of powdered sugar for coating the cookies.
What is the best way to coat the cookies in sugar?
Sift half the sugar on wax paper, place the warm cookies on top, and sift the remaining sugar over them.
Should the cookies be completely cool before storage?
Yes, ensure the cookies are completely cool before placing them in an airtight container.
What is the texture of these Greek cookies?
They are described as buttery and melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either sweet butter or margarine.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients required for this recipe.
Is there baking powder in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder is included in the dry ingredients.
What are some common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include greek cookies, kourabiedes, almond cookies, and festive treats.
How should the butter be prepared before mixing?
The butter should be softened to room temperature so it can be creamed until light and fluffy.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat the oven and toast the ground almonds.
What do these cookies pair well with?
They are excellent when served with coffee or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal.
What color should the cookies be when they are done?
They should be very lightly browned.
Is there a specific way to prepare the ground almonds?
They should be spread in a shallow pan and toasted until aromatic before being added to the dough.
What is the suggested storage method?
The cookies should be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.