Are you ready to indulge in a sweet and delicious culinary journey through Greece? Look no further! Greek cookies, also known as “biscotti” or “cookies”, are a staple in Greek bakeries and a popular treat among locals and visitors alike. With their rich flavors, textures, and aromas, these delightful treats will transport you to the sun-kissed islands of Greece. In this article, we’ll explore 18 irresistible Greek cookie recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
From traditional Kourabiedes with almonds to innovative creations like Orange and Clove Greek Cookies, each recipe is a reflection of Greece’s rich cultural heritage and love for baking. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a unique dessert to impress your guests, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Traditional Kourabiedes with Almonds
Traditional Kourabiedes with Almonds: A Sweet Greek Treat
These classic shortbread-like cookies are a staple of Greek celebrations and holidays, typically made with ground almonds, confectioner’s sugar, and a touch of citrus. Our recipe is a simple adaptation of this traditional treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (120g) ground almonds
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioner’s sugar. Add ground almonds and salt; stir until combined.
3. Add softened butter and lemon juice; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges.
8. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Melomakarona with Honey Syrup
These traditional Greek Christmas cookies, or Melomakarona, are sweet and citrusy, perfect for the holiday season. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor with a drizzle of honey syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Honey syrup (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine sugar, olive oil, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup water
Combine honey and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Let cool before drizzling over warm cookies.
Greek Butter Cookies with Orange Zest
These crumbly cookies infused with the brightness of orange zest and the richness of Greek butter are perfect for a sweet treat. With only a few ingredients, they’re easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted Greek butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in orange zest, then gradually add flour mixture (flour, baking powder, and salt) until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Finikia with Walnuts and Cinnamon
Finikia are traditional Greek cookies that are perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift. This recipe adds the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of walnuts to create a delicious combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, orange zest, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond and Sesame Seed Cookies
These crunchy cookies are infused with the nutty flavors of almonds and sesame seeds, making them a perfect treat for snack time or as a dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can have a batch fresh from the oven in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add almond extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds and sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweetness of vanilla and a hint of Greek flair are perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Paximadia with Anise and Orange
Paximadia with Anise and Orange: A Mediterranean-Inspired Delight
These anise-flavored crackers, known as Paximadia, are a staple in Greek cuisine. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating the sweetness of orange zest and the warmth of anise seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 tsp ground anise seeds
– 1 tbsp grated orange zest
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, lukewarm water, and yeast. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Add anise seeds and orange zest; knead for another minute.
4. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each paximadia.
6. Let rest for 30 minutes to allow the dough to rise slightly.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of chocolate chips, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in Greek yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Greek Cookies
Brighten up your day with these chewy Greek cookies infused with the citrusy flavor of lemon glaze. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with lemon glaze (mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl).
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Cinnamon Spiced Greek Cookies
Warm up with these sweet and spicy treats that combine the classic flavors of Greece with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and egg until smooth. Add cinnamon and salt; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut Stuffed Greek Cookies
These crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside cookies are filled with the rich flavor of walnuts and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts and orange zest.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Coconut Cookies with Honey
These cookies combine the warmth of honey with the creaminess of coconut and the crunch of Greek yogurt, making them a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for a sweet indulgence or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and shredded coconut.
3. In a large bowl, combine honey, yogurt, butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange and Clove Greek Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of cloves and the brightness of orange, perfect for a sweet treat during the holiday season. The combination of citrus and spice creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 2 tbsp orange juice
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in honey, eggs, orange zest, and juice.
4. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in ground cloves.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Greek Almond Cookies with Rosewater
Greek Almond Cookies with Rosewater Recipe
Experience the exotic fusion of Greek and Middle Eastern flavors with these delicate cookies, infused with the essence of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and egg until smooth. Add almond extract and rosewater; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until a dough forms.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches (5 cm) apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Honey Cookies with Sesame Seeds
These sweet treats are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, infused with the rich flavors of Greece. A perfect combination of honey, sesame seeds, and warm spices will transport you to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Sesame seeds for topping (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, butter, egg, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Pistachio Cookies with Cardamom
Greek Pistachio Cookies with Cardamom: A traditional Greek cookie recipe infused with the warm aroma of cardamom and crunchy pistachios, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios and ground cardamom.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Greek Walnut Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze
This classic Greek cookie recipe gets a sweet twist with the addition of walnuts and a drizzle of warm cinnamon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Cinnamon Glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cinnamon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Mix all ingredients until smooth and drizzle over warm cookies. Enjoy!
Greek Hazelnut Cookies with Chocolate Drizzle
These rich and buttery cookies infused with the warmth of hazelnuts are a perfect treat for any occasion. The addition of dark chocolate drizzle takes them to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and hazelnuts.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
8. Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the delicious world of Greek cookies! This collection of 18 irresistible recipes brings together traditional favorites and modern twists. From classic Kourabiedes with almonds to innovative combinations like orange zest and vanilla, these sweet treats are sure to delight. Try your hand at making Melomakarona with honey syrup, Finikia with walnuts and cinnamon, or Greek shortbread cookies with a hint of citrus. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s something for everyone in this delightful collection of Greek cookie recipes.
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