Rich, buttery Greek Kourabiedes recipe with brandy, toasted almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar – just like grandma used to make!
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Makes: 50-60 cookies
Ingredients
- 500 g butter (goat or sheep’s milk, if possible)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 ml brandy
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 2 cups toasted almonds, coarsely chopped
- 1000 g all-purpose flour (about 9 cups)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 capsule vanilla powder
For coating
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- Anthonero (rose water)
Instructions
- Mix the butter and sugar: Beat butter in a mixer until creamy, then add the powdered sugar. Continue mixing on high speed for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients: Lower the speed, then add egg yolks one at a time, followed by the brandy, cloves, and almonds, mixing well after each addition.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add flour, baking powder, and vanilla powder until you have a soft dough.
- Shape and bake: Shape the dough into small rounds or crescents (about 50-60 pieces). Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cookies are lightly golden.
- Coat with powdered sugar: Let cookies cool, then sprinkle with anthonero (rose water) and coat generously in powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
Tips for Perfect Kourabiedes
- Use goat and sheep butter for a rich, authentic flavor.
- Ensure the almonds are fully cooled before mixing them into the dough.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before coating them with powdered sugar to avoid melting.
FAQs about Greek Kourabiedes
1. Can I use regular butter instead of goat and sheep butter?
Yes, but the flavor will differ slightly. Goat and sheep butter gives a unique richness to kourabiedes.
2. How long do kourabiedes stay fresh?
They can stay fresh for up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I make kourabiedes without brandy?
Yes, you can replace brandy with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Enjoy!
