Traditional Greek Cognac Butter Cookies
Indulge in these delightful Traditional Greek Cognac Butter Cookies, a culinary treasure that embodies the essence of Greek baking. These soft, buttery cookies are infused with the warmth of cognac, offering a delicate bite that melts in your mouth. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea, these cookies are easily adaptable; substitute the cognac with milk or water for a different twist. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress with their exquisite flavor and tender texture. Perfect for cookie platters, festive gatherings, or as a sweet treat to enjoy anytime.
3-4 dozen
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
unsalted butter
1/2 lb (at room temperature)
confectioners' sugar
1 cup (plus additional for sprinkling)
egg yolk
1 (at room temperature)
cognac or brandy
1 tablespoon (optional substitution with water or milk)
all-purpose flour
2 cups (sifted)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
2
Gradually add the confectioners' sugar to the butter, continuing to mix, scraping down the sides of the bowl periodically until fully incorporated and fluffy.
3
Add the egg yolk and cognac (or milk/water if substituting), mixing well until blended smoothly.
4
Slowly incorporate the sifted flour, mixing until the dough is well combined and homogeneous.
5
Cover the dough with wax paper or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours; the dough can also be frozen for up to 2 weeks for longer storage.
6
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
7
Form the cookies by taking small pieces of dough and rolling them into 1-inch balls.
8
Place the cookie balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are very lightly browned on the bottom.
10
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11
Once cooled, generously sprinkle the cookies with additional confectioners' sugar before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Traditional Greek Cognac Butter Cookies?
These are soft, buttery Greek cookies infused with the warmth of cognac, known for their delicate bite and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What is the primary flavor of these cookies?
The cookies feature a rich, buttery flavor accented by the warmth of cognac or brandy.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 3 to 4 dozen cookies.
What type of butter should I use for this recipe?
You should use 1/2 lb of unsalted butter that has been softened to room temperature.
Do I need to use cognac?
While cognac is traditional, you can substitute it with brandy, milk, or water for a different twist.
What kind of sugar is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of confectioners' sugar in the dough, plus additional for sprinkling on top.
Do I use a whole egg in this recipe?
No, the recipe only requires one egg yolk, which should be at room temperature.
What type of flour is best for these Greek cookies?
All-purpose flour is recommended, and it should be sifted before being added to the dough.
How should I prepare the butter?
Beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is creamy and smooth.
When do I add the confectioners' sugar?
Gradually add the sugar to the creamed butter while continuing to mix and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
What is the correct consistency for the butter and sugar mixture?
The mixture should be fully incorporated and fluffy before adding other ingredients.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Yes, the dough must be covered with wax paper or plastic wrap and refrigerated for at least 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 weeks for longer storage.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
How do I shape the cookies?
Take small pieces of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, place the cookie balls on an ungreased baking sheet.
How much space should be between the cookies?
Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
How long do the cookies take to bake?
Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes.
How can I tell when the cookies are finished baking?
They are done when they are very lightly browned on the bottom.
What should I do once I remove them from the oven?
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before moving them.
Where should the cookies finish cooling?
Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
When should I apply the final coating of sugar?
Generously sprinkle the cookies with additional confectioners' sugar once they have cooled completely.
What makes these cookies 'traditional'?
They follow a classic Greek baking style that uses simple ingredients like butter, egg yolk, and cognac.
Are these cookies suitable for holiday platters?
Yes, they are perfect for festive gatherings, holiday platters, or as a sweet treat for any time.
Can I serve these with coffee?
Absolutely, these cookies pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Is the egg yolk required to be room temperature?
Yes, for the best blending, ensure the egg yolk is at room temperature.
How many main ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: butter, sugar, egg yolk, cognac, and flour.
Can I use water instead of alcohol?
Yes, water or milk can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for the cognac.
What is the texture of the finished cookie?
The texture is tender and soft, designed to melt in your mouth.
What tool is recommended for mixing?
An electric mixer is recommended to ensure the butter and sugar become creamy and fluffy.