Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)

Recipe courtesy Alex Guarnaschelli

Show: The Cooking LoftEpisode: Cooking Loft Cookies

Rated: 5 stars out of 5Rate itRead users' reviews (6)

RECIPE
COMMENTS & REVIEWS(6)

Cook Time:
15 min
Level:
Easy
Yield:
3 1/2 dozen cookies

Times:

Prep: 20 min
Inactive Prep: 45 min
Cook: 15 min
Total:: 1 hr 20 min

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Ingredients

3 sticks unsalted butter, soft
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus additional for coating
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons brandy
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
About 45 whole cloves

Directions

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the butter and salt and whip until light and fluffy, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the sugar, egg, brandy, and vanilla and beat until all of the ingredients are integrated. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add sifted flour to the butter mixture. Using a rubber spatula, remove the dough and transfer it onto a piece of waxed paper or parchment. Refrigerate for about 45 minutes before rolling.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

After the dough has cooled, pinch off small pieces and roll them into about 1-inch balls. Place them in a single layer with space in between each, on a greased baking sheet. Repeat the process until all of the cookie dough has been rolled. Place a clove in the center of each cookie. Alternatively, shape the ball into half moons with a clove in the center of each.

Place the sheets in the oven and bake until the cookies are just slightly brown, about 15 minutes. Allow them to cool thoroughly, and then roll them in powdered sugar.

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Comments & Reviews

recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
Anne Gastonia, NC 09-13-2009
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Memories of Yesterday!
Rated: 5 stars out of 5

Dear Alex, You are great with the recipes of 'ole as far as I'm concerned. You have a great easy style in the kitchen and... it's comforting to know that not everything has to be rocket-scientist difficult. I hope you add a lot more recipes that can be downloaded. Of all the chefs, you, Melissa, and Tyler are my favorites! Of course, all the chefs are great in their own unique way! Your dishes have a flavor and texture second to none! Anne - North CarolinaRead more
recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
Cindi Nashville, TN 08-09-2009
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heavenly
Rated: 5 stars out of 5

I hosted a greek dinner party and I made these-everyone raved about them and had seconds... and thirds. So buttery,delicious,... and easy to make. I will definitely making these again. I made them in half moon shapes, but didn't add the clove. Read more
recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
pamela riverside, CA 01-23-2009
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both i guess have been used
Rated: 5 stars out of 5

while i was researching this cookie, i found that some recipe's use cloves and some rosewater. guess it depends on where in... greece your family is from, etc. Switch it up depending upon your mood or what is in the pantry. both versions are wonderful.Read more
recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
Tina San Jose, CA 01-07-2009
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Yes to Rose Water & Almonds
Rated: 4 stars out of 5

I agree with the other Greek reviewer. Rose water is an essential part of Kourambiedes, as are the almonds to give a nice... crunch. Read more
recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
Denise Irvine, CA 12-22-2008
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Excellent!
Rated: 5 stars out of 5

My Greek family would never use rose water, but I know others would. These cookies are nice and delicate, just like my... great-grandmother's. Be sure to make them on the small side - 1" is perfect. They are meant to be a little cookie. My family used the cloves sometimes - I guess they are popular in some regions of Greece and not others. These cookies are easy and are always popular with everyone. Thank you, Alex!Read more
recipe Greek Christmas Cookies (Kourambiedes)
Gia East Elmhurst, NY 12-17-2008
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Traditional Recipe
Rated: 5 stars out of 5

The recipe that Alex Guarneschelli uses is just like my mother's but for one exception. You do NOT use cloves on this... traditional christmas cookie. What would truly give this cookie it's authentic flavor is a spritz (sprinkling) of rose water on each cookie. If you want a little crunch, you can use toasted, then finely chopped sliced almonds. Great flavor and great texture! Read more